Australian outdoor living doesn't stop when the temperature drops. With the right outdoor heater, your patio, deck or alfresco area stays comfortable year-round. Whether you need an outdoor patio heater for the entertaining area or a portable heater for flexibility, here's how to choose.

Types of Outdoor Heaters

Infrared strip heaters mount permanently to walls or ceilings, directing heat downward. These radiant heaters are ideal for covered patios where you want heat without taking up floor space. A freestanding outdoor heater offers portability but takes up floor space. Tabletop heaters provide localised warmth for intimate outdoor dining.

Our Top Outdoor Heater Picks

Arlec 2400W Smart Grid Connect Alfresco Strip Heater

Our top pick for most outdoor entertaining areas. This electric patio heater mounts to wall or ceiling, delivering instant infrared heater warmth exactly where you need it. The Grid Connect integration sets this outdoor heater apart. Turn it on from inside while preparing food, or control with voice commands.

Arlec 3000W Grid Connect Smart Radiant Strip Heater

For larger outdoor areas, step up to 3000W. This radiant heater delivers significantly more heating power for bigger patios or commercial outdoor dining. Same smart features, more warmth from this powerful outdoor patio heater.

Arlec 2400W Black Instant Infrared Heater

If you don't need smart features, this infrared heater delivers the same instant warmth at a lower price point. A practical outdoor heater for covered areas where simple on/off control is all you need.

Arlec 2100W Freestanding Instant Infrared Heater

A portable heater option for those who want flexibility. Position this freestanding outdoor heater where you need it, plug in, and enjoy instant warmth. Great for renters or anyone who wants to move their patio heater around.

Arlec 1500W Hanging 360° Instant Infrared Heater

A unique hanging design that radiates heat in all directions. This outdoor heater is perfect for gazebos, pergolas or any space where you want warmth distributed around a central point.

Arlec 1500W Alfresco Tabletop Instant Infrared Heater

For intimate outdoor dining, this tabletop heater sits right where you need it. Compact enough for your outdoor table, it provides targeted warmth for people seated around it. A budget-friendly electric patio heater for small gatherings.

Choosing the Right Size

Small areas up to 6m² suit 1500W tabletop or small freestanding models. Medium areas of 6-12m² need a 2000-2400W infrared heater. Large areas over 12m² require a 3000W radiant heater or multiple units. Remember outdoor heating is less efficient than indoor, so when in doubt with your outdoor heater, go slightly larger.

The right outdoor patio heater extends your living space into the cooler months. Keep the party going all year round. That's the smart choice.

© 2026 Arlec.