Stay Cosy Outdoors: Your Guide to Winter Patio Heating

Patios aren’t just for summer. With a few smart tweaks, you can turn your outdoor space into a cosy retreat all through winter. From reliable heaters to simple styling tricks, warming up your deck or patio is easier than you might think. Whether you’re after something to take the edge off a cool evening or planning to entertain through the colder months, we’ve pulled together a few easy ways to keep things toasty. With the right setup, you can enjoy everything winter has to offer — crisp air, clear skies, and yes, even BBQs all year round.

A good heater makes all the difference. If your space is small and sheltered, a simple electric heater might do the trick. But for open patios or breezy decks, you’ll want something with a bit more grunt — like a gas heater built for the outdoors.

Freestanding LPG heaters are great for positioning around the edges of your space, while wall-mounted or hanging infrared heaters are ideal if you’ve got a pergola or overhead structure. It all depends on your setup — access to power or gas might guide your choice, but LPG heaters are versatile and can go just about anywhere. Ready to warm things up? These heaters are our go-tos for winter comfort outside.

For open decks or breezy patios, you’ll need something with a bit more oomph — and that’s where gas heaters come in. Gas heaters are built for outdoor living. They pump out serious heat, they’re portable, and best of all — you don’t need to worry about access to power or a gas line. Just hook up a bottle and you’re good to go. Freestanding models are easy to move around, and work great positioned around the edges of your space.

One of our top picks for outdoor gas heaters? The Gasmate Gas Patio Heater in Charcoal. It’s a real workhorse when it comes to outdoor warmth — pumping out 40MJ/h of heat in a full 360° radius, so no one’s left huddling in a corner. It runs on LPG, which means it's easy to set up just about anywhere on the deck or patio. 

If you're after reliable warmth with a bit of style, the Gasmate Gas Area Heater is a solid choice for your outdoor space. It gives off 360-degree radiant heat, which means it warms the whole area around it — perfect for keeping everyone comfortable during those cooler Autumn and Winter evenings. 

And if you ever run low on gas, no stress — just swing by Mitre10 and swap your empty bottle for a full one with our handy Gas Swap ’n’ Go service. It’s quick, easy, and means you’re always ready for the next BBQ.

If you want a hassle-free, low-maintenance way to warm your patio, electric heaters are a solid choice. They’re perfect for smaller outdoor spaces or areas with good overhead cover — like a pergola or covered deck. Just plug them in and you’re good to go — no gas bottles or refills needed. They also give off instant heat, so there’s no waiting around to feel the warmth. With wall-mounted and portable options available, electric heaters are a fuss-free way to stay comfortable outside when the temperature dips.

If you're leaning towards an electric option, Bonaire’s Outdoor Radiant Strip Heaters are a solid pick for winter warmth. The 2400W model is a great all-rounder for patios up to 25 square metres — perfect for those smaller outdoor nooks. It’s easy to install with a standard plug, has four heat settings, and even comes with a remote and 24-hour timer, so you’re in control without leaving your seat. For bigger spaces or more consistent heat, the 3200W version steps things up. It can cover up to 32 square metres and needs to be hardwired in, making it a top choice for more permanent setups. Both come in a sleek black finish and are IP65-rated to handle the elements — so you’re not just getting warmth, you’re getting peace of mind all winter long.
      
If you’re after more choices for electric heating, these Gasmate models stand out for their power, convenience, and outdoor-ready design. The Gasmate 2400W Outdoor Electric Heater with Stand packs a powerful punch with its 2400W output and uses high-efficiency carbon fibre elements to deliver quick, radiant warmth. Plus, it’s built for flexibility — with three heat settings, an adjustable stand, and even a handy remote control and 9-hour timer. Its weather-resistant design means it’s ready to handle the outdoors all year round.

If you’re after more choices for electric heating, these Gasmate models stand out for their power, convenience, and outdoor-ready design. The Gasmate 2400W Outdoor Electric Heater with Stand packs a powerful punch with its 2400W output and uses high-efficiency carbon fibre elements to deliver quick, radiant warmth. Plus, it’s built for flexibility — with three heat settings, an adjustable stand, and even a handy remote control and 9-hour timer. Its weather-resistant design means it’s ready to handle the outdoors all year round.

For something a little more classic, the Gasmate 2000W Electric Patio Heater with Stand is a stylish and reliable choice. Its black powder-coated steel stand looks great in any outdoor setting, and the simple pull-cord switch makes it super easy to use. With three heat settings, adjustable height, and a weighted base for stability, it offers both versatility and safety. It’s also built tough for outdoor use, with an IP24 rating to handle the elements.

Both are great picks if you want effective, easy-to-use electric heaters to keep your patio warm through winter. And to keep your heater in top shape through the seasons, a good-quality cover like the Polytuf Verona Patio Heater Cover is a smart investment. It protects your heater from weather and wear, so it’s ready to warm you up whenever you need it.

You don’t always need to crank up the heat to feel cosy. Sometimes, it’s as simple as adding some warm colours to your space. Think burnt orange, deep reds, mustard yellows — cushions, throws, even a few terracotta pots can instantly make your patio feel more inviting. It might be more about looks than heat, but when you pair it with a good heater, it adds to the cozy vibe and makes the space feel warmer overall.

If your patio isn’t already screened in, adding screening can help cut the wind and keep things like rain from sneaking through. It also gives your plants a bit of protection from the worst of the weather. 

Want to take it a step further? Layer up with outdoor rugs to warm up underfoot — especially handy on timber decks where the cold can come up through the gaps. Curtains are another great option. With the right setup — say, a pergola or some overhead structure — you can hang outdoor or thermal curtains to help trap the heat and keep the breeze at bay.

No matter how chilly it gets, your patio or deck doesn’t have to be off-limits this winter. With a few simple touches — from cosy colours and soft rugs to the right heater — you can create a space that’s warm, welcoming, and perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends.