There’s a specific kind of disappointment that sets in on a perfect evening. You’re on the patio, the conversation is flowing, the stars are just beginning to appear, and then it hits you—that creeping, persistent chill that seeps into your bones. Suddenly, the comfortable wicker chair feels cold and unwelcoming. You find yourself pulling your sleeves down over your hands, then hugging your knees to your chest. The perfect evening is over, chased indoors by a simple drop in temperature. For years, this was my reality. Our small, beloved terrace space would become a no-go zone as soon as the sun dipped below the horizon, even in late spring. We considered bulky, noisy gas heaters, but the thought of wrestling with a propane tank and the sheer space they occupy was a non-starter for our streamlined outdoor oasis. We needed something different: a solution that was effective, elegant, and unobtrusive. The search for a heater that could extend our precious outdoor time without compromising on style or peace and quiet is what led us to investigate electric infrared options.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT HEATING WARMS YOUR SPACE: Infrared heaters do not emit CO2 and use over 90% of the heat produced - far more than conventional electric heaters. Enjoy energy efficient heat in indoor...
- SET THE TEMPERATURE FROM AFAR: Set the desired heat output level wherever you are with the included remote control or program the infrared heater for homes to turn on at certain times. You can also...
What to Consider Before Buying a Patio Heater
A patio heater is more than just an appliance; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your outdoor spaces and extending the seasons. Instead of letting a cool breeze dictate your schedule, a good heater provides the comfort needed to dine, socialize, or simply relax outdoors long after sunset or deep into the cooler months. The primary benefit is targeted warmth. Unlike convection heaters that waste energy heating the air (which promptly blows away), infrared heaters, like the one we’re examining today, warm objects and people directly. This is a far more efficient and effective method for outdoor environments, creating a pocket of comfort exactly where you need it. It’s the difference between trying to boil the ocean and enjoying a perfectly warm cup of tea.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a defined outdoor or semi-outdoor space—a patio, balcony, conservatory, or even a chilly workshop—who values instant, silent, and directional heat. They are likely looking for a ‘plug and play’ solution that doesn’t involve fuel storage, emissions, or complex installation. It’s for the urban dweller with a chic balcony or the suburban family with a covered deck. Conversely, it might not be the best fit for those needing to heat a very large, completely open-air event space. In those scenarios, a much more powerful gas heater or a series of multiple units might be required. For individuals seeking ultimate portability for camping or fishing, a compact propane unit could be a better alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your area carefully. A tower heater like the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W has a small footprint (23×23 cm) but stands 94 cm tall. Ensure you have the vertical and horizontal clearance, and that its placement won’t create a tripping hazard, especially considering its 2-meter power cord.
- Capacity/Performance: Wattage is king. 1200W is ideal for providing supplemental warmth to a space of up to 200 square feet, perfect for a typical seating area for 2-4 people. Understand that infrared heat is directional; its effectiveness diminishes with distance. Consider if the three adjustable heat levels offer the flexibility you need for varying temperatures.
- Materials & Durability: Outdoor appliances face the elements. The combination of an anodised aluminium alloy body and a stainless steel stand suggests strong resistance to rust and corrosion. An IP65 rating is a significant feature, indicating it’s sealed against dust ingress and can withstand water jets from any direction, meaning it can handle a rain shower without issue.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Look for features that simplify operation. A remote control is a game-changer, allowing you to adjust settings without leaving your seat. A built-in timer adds a layer of convenience and safety. Maintenance for electric infrared heaters is typically minimal—just occasional dusting of the housing and grille when it’s unplugged and cool.
Considering these factors will ensure you select a heater that not only performs well but also integrates seamlessly into your lifestyle.
While the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- 2-IN-1 FREESTANDING OR WALL MOUNTED ELECTRIC HEATER - The 2000W heater is IPX4 approved, which means it is suitable for outdoor use as a freestanding or wall mounted heater.
- EFFICIENT HEATING: Unleash the power of 2KW featuring three heat settings (650W, 1350W, and 2000W) tailored for diverse outdoor occasions. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening or hosting a...
- PERFECT FOR OUTDOOR SETTINGS: Enjoy food & drink or simply relaxing in the garden, any time of year! The heater combines a robust structure with excellent design, making the product ideal for both...
First Impressions: Sleek Design Meets Solid Build
Upon arrival, the first thing we noticed about the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W was the thoughtful packaging. The unit was secure, which is crucial for an item with a sensitive heating element. Unboxing revealed a product that feels more premium than its price point might suggest. The white anodised aluminium housing is smooth to the touch and has a clean, minimalist aesthetic that blends effortlessly with modern outdoor furniture. It’s a far cry from the industrial, utilitarian look of many other heaters on the market.
Assembly was refreshingly simple, taking less than ten minutes. It primarily involved attaching the sturdy stainless steel base to the main tower with a few included screws. The base is weighty enough (the whole unit is 5.6 kg) to give the heater a reassuringly stable footing, a critical design element we were looking for. Once assembled, its slim, vertical profile is genuinely space-saving. It doesn’t dominate the patio; it complements it. The initial feel is one of quality engineering and thoughtful design, a promising start before we even plugged it in. You can see its elegant design and full specifications here.
Key Benefits
- Highly efficient carbon infrared element delivers instant, targeted warmth.
- IP65 rating provides excellent protection against dust and rain for outdoor use.
- Sleek, modern design with a small footprint fits well in various settings.
- Convenient operation with a multi-function remote control and 9-hour timer.
- Built-in safety features, including automatic shut-off if tipped over.
Potential Drawbacks
- 1200W output is best for smaller, sheltered areas and may be insufficient for larger, exposed patios.
- Relies on a 2M power cord, which can limit placement options.
- Some user reports mention potential for shipping damage, highlighting the need for careful inspection upon arrival.
A Deep Dive into the Heat Guru Plus’s Performance
An elegant design is wonderful, but the true test of a patio heater is, of course, the heat. We put the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W through its paces over several weeks of unpredictable British weather, from crisp, still evenings to damp, breezy nights. Our goal was to understand not just how hot it gets, but the quality and character of the warmth it provides, its resilience to the elements, and the overall user experience.
Heating Performance & Quality of Warmth
The moment you switch the Heat Guru Plus on, you understand the magic of infrared. There’s no pre-heating, no waiting period. A soft, low-glare orange glow emanates from the carbon fibre element, and you feel a gentle, radiant warmth almost instantly. This is fundamentally different from a fan heater that blows hot air. The infrared waves travel through the air and warm you, your chair, and your table directly, much like the feeling of the sun on your skin. We tested it on our 15-square-meter patio, placing it about 1.5 meters away from our two-person bistro set. On the lowest setting, it provided a pleasant background warmth, just enough to take the edge off a mild evening. The medium setting was our most-used, creating a genuinely comfortable bubble of warmth that made sitting outside in a light jumper perfectly enjoyable. The highest, 1200W setting, was impressive, pushing back against a noticeable breeze and making the space feel cosy even as the temperature dropped into the single digits. The manufacturer’s claim of covering 200 sq ft (about 18.5 sq meters) feels accurate, provided the space is somewhat sheltered. In a completely open, windy area, the effective range is closer, but for its intended purpose, the heating capability is a feature that really sets it apart.
Built for the Outdoors: Durability and IP65 Weatherproofing
Leaving an electrical appliance outside requires a great deal of trust in its construction. The blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W inspires that confidence. The anodised aluminium alloy of the main body isn’t just for looks; it’s a durable, corrosion-resistant material. Throughout our testing, which included a few unexpected light rain showers, the unit showed no signs of wear, discolouration, or water ingress. This is where the IP65 rating becomes more than just a number on a spec sheet. IP65 means the unit is completely protected from dust (“6”) and can withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction (“5”). In practical terms, this means you don’t have to panic and rush to bring it inside at the first sign of drizzle. While we wouldn’t leave it exposed to a torrential downpour or winter snow, its ability to handle everyday British weather is a massive advantage. The stainless steel base is equally robust, remaining stable on the slightly uneven patio tiles without any wobble. This build quality suggests a product designed for longevity, not just a single season.
Effortless Control and Everyday Usability
This is where the “Plus” in Heat Guru Plus truly shines. The included remote control is a feature we quickly came to view as essential. It’s slim, intuitive, and allows you to cycle through the three heat settings and set the timer without ever leaving the comfort of your chair. The convenience of being able to dial the heat up or down as the evening progresses cannot be overstated. The 9-hour timer is another standout function. We found it perfect for setting the heater to run for a few hours, knowing it would safely turn itself off later in the night if we forgot. This adds a crucial layer of both safety and energy efficiency. Operation is completely silent. There are no fans, no humming, and no distracting noises—just silent warmth. This is a huge benefit for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Finally, we tested the tip-over protection by gently nudging the unit until it tilted past its balance point. The heater instantly shut off, exactly as advertised. This simple but critical safety feature provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for households with pets or children.
What Other Users Are Saying
In our research, we found that the overall sentiment for the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W is positive, with many users praising its stylish appearance and effective, silent heat. However, it’s important to present a balanced view. While our own unit arrived in pristine condition, we did encounter a noteworthy piece of negative feedback from one user who reported receiving a broken product due to poor handling during shipping. They expressed significant frustration with the post-purchase customer service experience, stating the item wasn’t marked as fragile and they struggled to get a replacement. This highlights a potential risk associated with ordering such items online and underscores the importance of purchasing from a reputable vendor with a robust returns policy. We recommend inspecting the heater thoroughly upon delivery and immediately reporting any signs of damage to the seller to ensure you’re protected.
How the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Compares to the Alternatives
The blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W occupies a specific niche. To understand if it’s right for you, it helps to see it alongside some different approaches to outdoor heating.
1. BU-KO Patio Gas Heater Stainless Steel Pyramid Style 13kw
- 🔥 DOUBLE BENEFIT - This pyramid-shaped outdoor gas heaters for home is powered by propane gas and displays an attractive open flame safely contained in a quartz glass tube. Its column design and...
- 🔥 BUILT TO LAST - Crafted using premium, high-grade stainless steel and powder coated aluminium, this patio heater is waterproof and almost weather-proof too - it can handle exposure to the harsh...
The BU-KO is a completely different beast. As a 13,000W gas heater, it produces over ten times the raw heating power of the Heat Guru Plus. Its stunning pyramid design with a visible flame tube provides not just warmth but also a dramatic visual centerpiece. This is the choice for heating large, open patio areas for parties and bigger gatherings. However, it’s significantly larger, heavier, requires propane tank refills, and isn’t silent. The BU-KO is for those who prioritize maximum power and visual impact over the targeted, silent, and maintenance-free operation of an electric infrared model.
2. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Propane Gas Heater
- Powerful: 1.2 - 2.4 kW indoor heater for rooms up to 21m³ (e.g. small rooms or tents)
- Universal: with adapter for butane and propane gas cartridges with EN 417 thread (7/16"x28 UNEF)
If portability is your absolute top priority, the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy is a legend in its class. Running on small propane cartridges, it’s designed to be carried anywhere—from a fishing spot to a campsite or a garage workshop. Its heat output is variable (up to 2.4kW), making it more powerful than the blumfeldt, but its design is purely functional. It lacks the elegance, remote control, and weather resistance of the Heat Guru Plus. This is the perfect choice for on-the-go heating, whereas the blumfeldt is designed for a more permanent, stylish home base.
3. blumfeldt Hanging Infrared Patio Heater
- ENERGY EFFICIENT HEATING WARMS YOUR SPACE: Infrared heaters do not emit CO2 and maximise the heat produced - far more than a conventional electric patio heater. With three temperatures, enjoy energy...
- A REASON TO GO OUTSIDE IN WINTER: Outdoor seating can be enjoyed all winter with a garden heater. This far infrared heater uses infrared heat panels powered by a halogen element to warm objects...
This alternative from the same brand, blumfeldt, offers a different form factor for a similar purpose. As a hanging heater, it’s an excellent solution for saving precious floor space, making it ideal for gazebos, covered porches, or small balconies where a standing unit might get in the way. It also features remote control and multiple heat settings. However, it requires a sturdy overhead structure for mounting and has a lower IP34 rating, meaning it’s protected from splashing water but not the more forceful water jets that the IP65-rated Heat Guru Plus can handle. The choice between these two comes down to your space and mounting possibilities.
Our Final Verdict: Is the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W for You?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the blumfeldt Heat Guru Plus Stand Heater 1200W is a superb choice for a very specific and common need. If you’re looking to bring comfortable, reliable, and silent warmth to a small-to-medium-sized patio, balcony, or conservatory, this heater excels. Its greatest strengths lie in its blend of elegant, minimalist design, highly efficient and instant infrared heat, and user-friendly features like the remote control and timer. The robust, weather-resistant construction provides peace of mind that it’s built to last beyond a single season.
It is not, however, a powerhouse designed to heat a large, exposed garden in the dead of winter. Its 1200W output and directional nature define its purpose as a personal or small-group comfort provider. For those who understand its role and have the right space for it, it is an investment that pays dividends in extended evenings and more enjoyable outdoor living. It successfully transforms a chilly, unusable space into a cosy and inviting retreat. If you’re ready to stop letting the cold dictate your evenings, we highly recommend it. You can check the latest price and order yours today to start reclaiming your outdoor space.
Last update on 2025-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API