Choosing the right heater for a covered patio balances safety, coverage, and weather resistance. Below is a quick comparison of electric and infrared models that work well under roofs, gazebos, and enclosed porches.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 | Carbon Infrared / Electric | IP55 Rated For Indoor & Outdoor Use |
| VAGKRI Outdoor Infrared Heater | Infrared Tower / Electric | 1500W, IPX5 Waterproof, Tip-Over Protection |
| Buyplus Greenhouse Heater | Electric Forced-Air With Thermostat | Digital Thermostat, Rapid Heating |
| London Sunshine 1500W Electric Patio Heater | Ceramic Electric / Hybrid | Remote, Wall Or Floor Mount Options |
| Slkdrft 1500W Infrared Heater | Infrared Oscillating Heater | 60° Oscillation, 9 Heat Levels, Timer |
Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared
This model Is IP55 approved for both indoor and outdoor use, making it suitable for covered patios where occasional moisture or drafts may occur. It uses carbon infrared technology for fast, direct warming rather than heating air. The unit offers three power settings (900W, 1200W, 1500W) and runs on standard 120V with remote control for convenient adjustments.
Features noted by the manufacturer include clean, odorless heat, plug-and-play operation, and suitability for restaurants, decks, garages, and other semi-enclosed spaces. The infrared output is aimed at objects and people, which can be efficient in covered outdoor seating where wind loss is limited.
VAGKRI Outdoor Infrared Heater 1500W Tower
The VAGKRI tower-style infrared heater is designed for rapid heating with three wattage settings: 600W, 900W, and 1500W. It highlights 1-second rapid heat response using infrared elements and includes mobility features like a carrying handle.
Safety features include tip-over automatic shutoff, overheat protection, and IPX5 waterproof rating, which supports covered patio use where light moisture or splashes could occur. ETL certification is noted, and the product targets both indoor and outdoor covered spaces, offering a balance of portability, fast heat, and built-in protections.
Buyplus Greenhouse Heater With Thermostat
Although marketed for greenhouses, this 1500W electric heater performs well on covered patios due to its digital thermostat and precise temperature control. The included waterproof probe allows automatic cycling to maintain a set temperature between 40°F and 108°F.
Manufacturer features emphasize 3-second fast heating, overheat protection with a self-resetting breaker, and coverage up to roughly 215 square feet in sheltered conditions. The thermostat control helps maintain consistent warmth in enclosed or semi-enclosed patio areas without continuous manual adjustment.
London Sunshine 1500W Electric Patio Heater
This model uses a ceramic heating element rated at 1500W and lists coverage up to about 150 square feet. It provides three power levels: 500W, 1000W, and 1500W, which can improve efficiency on mild nights. The unit supports both floor standing and wall mounting, offering flexibility for covered patio installations.
Controls include remote and manual operation, and the product emphasizes secure mounting hardware with adjustable angle settings. The hybrid design works well for covered spaces where a stable mounting point exists, enabling targeted heating without exposing the unit to direct outdoor elements.
Slkdrft 1500W Infrared Oscillating Heater
The Slkdrft unit combines infrared carbon fiber heating with features suited to covered patios: 60° oscillation to distribute heat across a wider area, 9 adjustable heat levels from 500W to 1500W, and a 9-hour timer for automated operation. Safety protections include tip-over and overheat cutoffs and a safety lock.
This model is designed to warm people and objects directly, which can be more efficient in sheltered spaces where air does not circulate freely. The oscillation expands effective coverage for groups seated under a patio roof or in adjacent seating zones.
Buying Guide For Covered Patio Heaters
Selecting a heater for a covered patio requires examining safety, coverage, mounting, and weather ratings. The guide below highlights the main factors to compare across electric infrared, ceramic, and gas options.
Safety And Certification
- IP/Waterproof Rating: For covered patios that may be exposed to occasional spray or moisture, look for IPX4/IPX5 or IP55 ratings to resist light water exposure.
- ETL/UL Certification: Certification indicates the unit meets recognized safety standards. This is critical for indoor or semi-enclosed use.
- Built-In Protections: Tip-over shutoff, overheat protection, and thermal fuses reduce fire and burn risks.
Heater Type And How It Affects Covered Spaces
- Infrared Heaters (carbon or quartz): Heat people and objects directly, efficient in sheltered patios with limited airflow. Less warming of ambient air reduces heat loss through openings.
- Ceramic/Electric Fan Heaters: Can warm air faster in small enclosed patios or when you need a quick rise in ambient temperature, but fans may circulate cold air if the area is drafty.
- Gas/Propane Heaters: Provide high output for open patios, but require adequate ventilation and are generally not recommended for fully covered or enclosed patios due to combustion gases and clearance needs.
Coverage And Output
- Wattage and BTU: Electric heaters are rated in watts (commonly 1500W max for household circuits). Propane models specify BTUs. For covered patios, 1500W infrared often suffices for targeted seating areas; larger enclosed spaces may need multiple units.
- Heating Pattern: Choose directional heaters for targeted zones (over a table or seating) or oscillating units to spread warmth across a wider area.
Mounting, Placement, And Installation
- Wall/Ceiling Mounting: Keeps the heater out of reach and provides even coverage; ensure proper clearance from combustible materials per manufacturer guidelines.
- Floor & Portable Units: Offer flexibility for repositioning but require stable, level placement and attention to tip-over protection.
- Clearance: Even under a roof, maintain required clearances around the heater to reduce fire risk and allow proper airflow.
Controls, Thermostats, And Timers
- Thermostat Control: For covered patios that are semi-enclosed, a thermostat maintains consistent comfort and avoids wasted energy.
- Remote & Timer: Remote operation and timers add convenience and can improve safety by limiting unattended runtime.
Energy Use And Operating Costs
- Electric Models: Typically draw 1500W at full power. Use adjustable settings or timers to reduce energy use in mild conditions.
- Multiple Units vs Single High Output: Two smaller directional heaters may heat occupants more efficiently than one high-output unit attempting to warm a large air volume.
Durability And Weather Exposure
- Material And Finish: Stainless steel or powder-coated housings resist rust for covered yet humid patios.
- IP Ratings And Outdoor Labels: Units rated for “indoor/outdoor” or with explicit IP ratings offer better tolerance for covered patios that see occasional moisture.
Installation Perspectives
- DIY Installation: Many electric units are plug-and-play for patios with nearby outlets. For permanent ceiling or hardwired installations, consult an electrician to ensure correct circuit capacity and safe mounting.
- Commercial Vs Residential Use: Commercial patios may require higher duty-cycle units and professional installation to meet local codes. Confirm certifications and mounting specifications for business settings.
Comparison Considerations
- Coverage Needs: Estimate the primary seating area and choose a unit (or multiple units) based on directional coverage and wattage rather than maximum rated area alone.
- Noise: Infrared and ceramic radiant heaters are typically quiet, while fan-based electric heaters may produce audible sound that affects conversation areas.
- Maintenance: Electric infrared units usually require minimal maintenance. Gas units need periodic inspection for burners and connections and are less suited to covered environments without adequate ventilation.
Safe Use Tips For Covered Patios
- Keep heaters at the manufacturer-specified clearances from walls, curtains, and furniture.
- Use weatherproof-rated electrical outlets and cords rated for outdoor use where needed.
- Avoid using open-flame heaters in enclosed or poorly ventilated covered patios to prevent accumulation of combustion byproducts.
- Ensure permanent installations follow local electrical and building codes.