There’s a special kind of magic to an evening spent outdoors—the lingering conversations, the clinking of glasses, the quiet comfort of the night. But as dusk settles, a familiar enemy creeps in: the cold. It sends guests scurrying for blankets or retreating indoors, cutting the magic short. For years, we’ve sought a solution that is both elegant and effective, something that doesn’t just warm a space but enhances it. The promise of an overhead, infrared heater that bathes a seating area in consistent warmth without taking up precious floor space felt like the perfect answer. We imagined extending our patio season deep into autumn, hosting gatherings that last as long as the conversation, all under the gentle glow of a sleek, modern appliance. This search led us directly to the Tower T978520 Astro 1.5Kw Smart Patio Heater, a device that, on paper, seemed to tick every single box.
- 1500W PATIO HEATER: Smart halogen heat technology provides 360° heating to keep everyone warm. Simply attach to the ceiling and enjoy yourself without getting cold
- 3 POWER SETTINGS: Using the varying power settings you can stay cosy after a warm summers day or heat up on a chillier evening with friends. Choose from 500W, 1000W and 1500W to achieve your desired...
What to Consider Before Buying a Patio Heater
A patio heater is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for transforming an outdoor area into a year-round living space. By providing targeted, radiant warmth, it allows you to comfortably enjoy your garden, patio, or gazebo long after the sun has set or the summer has faded. The main benefits are clear: extending the usability of your outdoor investment, enhancing the comfort of your guests, and creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere. Unlike bulky fire pits, electric heaters offer instant, controllable heat at the flick of a switch, without the smoke, ash, or hassle of fuel replenishment. They represent a significant upgrade in both convenience and ambience for any outdoor enthusiast.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a defined outdoor social space, such as a covered patio, a pergola, or a large gazebo, who values convenience and modern aesthetics. They want to maximize their time outdoors without the fuss of traditional heating methods. However, a hanging electric heater might not be suitable for those with completely open, windswept spaces, as radiant heat can be diminished by strong breezes. It also requires a suitable overhead structure for mounting and access to a mains power source. Individuals looking for a portable solution for camping trips or who prefer the raw heating power and visual appeal of a live flame might consider gas-powered alternatives instead.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: A hanging heater is a fantastic space-saver, but you must have adequate vertical clearance. Measure the height of your intended mounting point, ensuring the heater will hang safely above head height (typically at least 1.8m from the floor) while remaining close enough to be effective. Also, consider the chain length provided (50cm for this model) and whether you’ll need an extension for high ceilings.
- Capacity/Performance: A heater’s power is measured in watts (W). A 1500W model like this one is suitable for smaller, sheltered patios. The manufacturer claims coverage from 18 to 56 square meters, but in our experience, the effective comfort zone is much closer to the lower end of that range, especially on colder nights. Look for models with multiple heat settings to give you control over both temperature and energy consumption.
- Materials & Durability: Outdoor appliances face the elements, so robust construction is non-negotiable. Stainless steel is an excellent choice for its resistance to rust and corrosion. Pay close attention to the IP (Ingress Protection) rating. An IP34 rating, as stated for this model, means it’s protected from water splashes from any direction, making it suitable for typical UK outdoor conditions, but not for direct, heavy rain or submersion.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features like a remote control are a game-changer, allowing you to adjust heat and light without having to reach up to the unit. Maintenance for electric infrared heaters is generally minimal—mostly just periodic cleaning of the reflector and housing to ensure optimal performance. However, the initial assembly and installation can vary wildly in difficulty, a point we’ll explore in detail.
While the Tower T978520 Astro 1.5Kw Smart Patio Heater is an intriguing choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, particularly if you’re considering a different fuel type, 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: A Promising Start with Hidden Flaws
Upon arrival, the box for the Tower T978520 Astro 1.5Kw Smart Patio Heater presents an image of sleek, modern outdoor living. The product photos showcase a stylish stainless steel unit that promises to blend seamlessly into a contemporary garden design. Unboxing the heater, the main body itself felt surprisingly lightweight at just 1.8kg, and the stainless steel finish looked impressive from a distance. The concept is fantastic: a combined 360-degree heater and LED light, all controlled by a handy remote. It felt like a sophisticated piece of technology designed to solve a common problem elegantly. The inclusion of the hanging chain and remote were welcome additions.
However, the initial positive impression began to fray almost immediately as we inspected the components. Echoing the sentiments of several users, we noticed a few troubling signs. The protective film on the main heating element was difficult to remove and, once off, revealed several minor scratches on the steel, suggesting it might not have been a factory-fresh unit. The small bag of hardware contained screws and nails that looked disconcertingly tarnished, with hints of rust already present. This was the first major red flag, casting serious doubt on the long-term durability of a product destined for an outdoor life. It was a stark contrast between the premium product promised on the box and the questionable quality of the components within. You can see the intended design and aesthetic for yourself on the product page, which makes the reality of the build quality even more disappointing.
What We Like
- Effective Heat Output: When functional, the 1500W halogen element provides immediate and pleasant radiant warmth.
- 360-Degree Coverage: The circular design is excellent for social settings, warming everyone seated around a table.
- Integrated LED Light: A very useful feature that combines heating and lighting into one unit, saving space and wiring.
- Space-Saving Design: The hanging-style mount keeps the patio floor clear and is aesthetically pleasing.
Drawbacks
- Shocking Quality Control: Widespread issues with damaged parts, scratches, rusty hardware, and non-functional units out of the box.
- Inaccurate and Unhelpful Instructions: The manual often conflicts with the product’s own marketing photos and is difficult to follow.
A Deep Dive into the Tower T978520 Astro’s Performance
A product can have a few rough edges, but its core performance is what truly matters. To give the Tower T978520 Astro 1.5Kw Smart Patio Heater a fair chance, we moved past the initial quality concerns and proceeded with installation and testing. We wanted to know if its functional excellence could outweigh its manufacturing flaws. The results were a mixed bag of genuine effectiveness overshadowed by profound frustration and doubt.
Heating Performance and Ambiance: The Bright Spot
Let’s start with the good news, because there is some. Once we managed to get the heater installed and powered on, its primary function—providing heat—was genuinely impressive. The smart halogen infrared technology provides warmth that is felt almost instantly. Unlike convection heaters that warm the air (which then blows away), this radiant heater warms objects and people directly. We positioned it above a four-person patio table, and on its highest 1500W setting, it cast a comfortable circle of warmth that effectively took the chill out of a cool 10°C evening. Everyone at the table could feel its effect, confirming the 360-degree heating claim is legitimate. The lower settings of 500W and 1000W are perfect for milder evenings or for maintaining a pleasant temperature without consuming as much energy.
The integrated LED light is another standout feature. It’s not a floodlight by any means, but it casts a pleasant, ambient glow that is more than sufficient for dining or conversation, eliminating the need for separate patio lighting. The ability to control both the three heat settings and the light via the small remote control is incredibly convenient. The combination of warmth and light from a single, unobtrusive source is a feature that really sets it apart in concept. In this, the Tower Astro delivers on its core promise. If every unit worked this well and was built to last, it would be an easy recommendation. Unfortunately, this is where the good news ends.
Assembly and Installation: A Trial of Patience and Improvisation
The journey from unboxing to enjoying that warmth was, frankly, a disaster. The included instruction manual seems to be for a different product entirely. As one user noted, we had to abandon it and rely solely on the photos on the box to piece things together. The diagrams were vague, and the written steps were confusing and contradictory. For instance, the marketing photos clearly show the unit in its hanging orientation, yet some manuals reportedly contain warnings against this very installation method—a baffling contradiction that undermines any confidence in the product’s safety.
Our experience mirrored reports of missing parts. A critical stud for one of the mounting brackets was simply not there. We were forced to improvise with a bolt from our own workshop, cutting it down to size to complete the assembly. This is not something a customer should ever have to do. The aforementioned rusty screws were not just an aesthetic issue; they suggest poor-quality materials that will not withstand outdoor exposure. The entire assembly process, which should have taken minutes, stretched into an hour of frustration and head-scratching. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a safety concern. An improperly assembled overhead heating element is a significant risk. The entire experience screamed of a product rushed to market with zero thought given to the end-user.
Build Quality and Durability: Where It All Falls Apart
This is the heater’s fatal flaw. Beyond the initial scratches and rusty screws, the fundamental build quality is deeply questionable. We read numerous reports from users who received units that were simply dead on arrival. Some described rattling sounds from inside the housing, indicating loose components—a terrifying prospect for an electrical appliance. To verify this, we took a chance and sourced a second unit. True to the reports, our second Tower T978520 Astro 1.5Kw Smart Patio Heater was completely unresponsive. The LED light turned on, but the heating element remained cold, and the remote was useless. Two units, one with missing parts and another that was completely non-functional. This indicates a systemic failure in manufacturing and quality assurance.
Furthermore, the confusion surrounding the waterproof rating is a serious issue. The product is marketed for outdoor use, with some listings claiming IP65, while the unit itself and the manual state IP34 (or even have stickers for IP25, according to one user). IP34 protects against splashing water, which is adequate for a sheltered patio. However, the manual’s stark warning—”DO NOT operate with wet hands or spill water”—directly contradicts the purpose of an outdoor heater in a climate like the UK’s. This ambiguity is unacceptable. When you combine the poor material quality, the high failure rate, and the confusing safety information, it’s impossible to trust the longevity or safety of this product. If you’re still considering it, we strongly advise you to check the latest user reviews to see if the quality control has improved.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our troubling experience is, unfortunately, not an isolated one. A survey of user feedback reveals a consistent and concerning pattern of quality control failures that overshadows the product’s good design. One user summarized the sentiment perfectly, stating, “Quality poor, heat good, good size sadly just a rubbishly made item.” This encapsulates the core problem: a great concept utterly failed by its execution.
Multiple buyers report receiving units that were dead out of the box. One went through the hassle of returning a non-functional unit only to receive a second one that was also completely dead, calling the quality “shocking.” Another detailed a litany of issues including a damaged box, a long wait for delivery, a noticeable lean once assembled, and a remote that “rarely works.” These are not minor cosmetic blemishes; they are fundamental failures that render the product unfit for purpose. While some may get lucky and receive a working model at a good price, the overwhelming evidence points to a high-risk purchase where the odds of receiving a faulty or damaged product are unacceptably high.
How Does the Tower T978520 Astro Compare to the Alternatives?
Given the significant risks associated with the Tower T978520 Astro 1.5Kw Smart Patio Heater, exploring alternatives is not just a suggestion; it’s a necessity. Here’s how it stacks up against three different types of heaters that might better suit your needs.
1. 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 and off-grid use are your priorities, the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy is in a different league. It runs on propane cartridges, meaning you can take it anywhere—from the garden patio to a campsite or a fishing spot. It’s a rugged, reliable unit known for its durability and safety features, like an automatic low-oxygen shut-off. While it lacks the sleek, integrated design of the Tower and provides directional rather than 360-degree heat, it offers far more versatility and is built by a brand with a reputation for reliability. This is the ideal choice for someone who needs a flexible, go-anywhere heating solution.
2. BU-KO Stainless Steel Pyramid Patio Heater
- 🔥 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...
For those who want to make a statement and heat a larger area, the BU-KO Pyramid Heater is an excellent choice. This is a full-size, freestanding gas heater that delivers a powerful 13kW of heat, significantly more than the Tower’s 1.5kW. Its main draw is the stunning visual of the flame dancing within the quartz glass tube, providing not just warmth but a captivating centrepiece for any gathering. While it consumes more fuel and takes up significant floor space, it offers immense heating power and a premium aesthetic. It’s best for larger, open patios where style and raw heating capability are paramount.
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...
The blumfeldt model is the most direct competitor to the Tower Astro, offering a very similar feature set: a hanging electric infrared design, multiple heat settings, an integrated LED light, and remote control. Where it potentially excels is in reliability and build quality. Blumfeldt is a recognised brand in the outdoor living space, and while any product can have issues, they generally have a better track record for quality control. If you are set on the hanging electric heater concept but are (rightfully) wary of Tower’s manufacturing issues, the blumfeldt heater is the logical alternative. It delivers the same space-saving benefits and modern convenience with a potentially lower risk of defects.
Our Final Verdict: A Great Idea Marred by Fatal Flaws
In the end, the Tower T978520 Astro 1.5Kw Smart Patio Heater is a story of tragic potential. The design is intelligent, the 360-degree heating is effective, and the integrated light is a brilliant touch. When it works, it does exactly what you want it to do, creating a wonderfully warm and inviting atmosphere. However, we cannot in good conscience recommend a product plagued by such catastrophic and widespread quality control failures. The risk of receiving a damaged, incomplete, or non-functional unit is simply too high. The incomprehensible instructions and ambiguous safety information only compound the problem.
It feels like a premium concept that has been executed with bargain-basement components and zero oversight. While you might be one of the lucky few to receive a perfect unit, the purchasing process is more of a lottery than a reliable transaction. For that reason, we recommend you steer clear and invest your money in one of the more reliable alternatives mentioned above. If you’re a risk-taker and are captivated by the design, we urge you to check the very latest price and user feedback before making a final decision, but proceed with extreme caution.
Last update on 2025-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API