There’s a familiar feeling of disappointment that creeps in as the sun dips below the horizon on a perfect garden evening. The conversation is flowing, the drinks are cold, but a sudden, unwelcome chill descends. Blankets are fetched, jumpers are pulled on, and soon, the inevitable retreat indoors begins. For years, this was the story of my late summer and autumn evenings. We’d invest time and effort into creating a beautiful outdoor space, only to be chased out of it by a drop in temperature. The desire to extend those precious moments, to linger over a meal or a conversation under the stars without shivering, is what ultimately led me on the hunt for a reliable, effective outdoor heating solution. The problem isn’t just about comfort; it’s about reclaiming the full potential of our outdoor living areas, turning them into true four-season extensions of our home. That’s precisely the problem the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater promises to solve.
- 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.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT ELECTRIC HEATER WITH 3 HEAT LEVELS - The outdoor electric heater has 3 different heat levels (low, medium & high) so you can adjust the wattage to your preference and keep warm all...
What to Consider Before Investing in an Outdoor Patio Heater
An outdoor patio heater is more than just an appliance; it’s a key solution for unlocking the year-round potential of your garden, deck, or balcony. It transforms a space that’s often abandoned after sundown into a warm, inviting hub for entertainment and relaxation. The primary benefit is, of course, the ability to comfortably enjoy your outdoor areas long after the ambient temperature has dropped, effectively extending the usability of your investment in garden furniture and landscaping. By providing a consistent source of warmth, these heaters make al fresco dining, late-night chats, or simply enjoying a quiet evening outdoors a pleasant possibility, even in the cooler months of spring and autumn.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who loves entertaining outdoors or simply cherishes their garden sanctuary and wants to maximise its use. If you have a dedicated seating area, a gazebo, or a patio that feels underutilised due to the cold, an electric patio heater is a fantastic investment. However, it might not be the best fit for those who require a completely portable heating solution for camping or use in areas far from a power source; in those cases, a propane-powered heater might be more suitable. Similarly, if your outdoor space is vast and unenclosed, you might need multiple units or a much more powerful gas heater to feel a significant difference. For most domestic patios and decks, a targeted radiant electric heater like this one is a cost-effective and efficient choice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your space carefully. The Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater stands tall at 211cm, so ensure you have adequate vertical clearance, especially under gazebos or awnings. Consider its 52cm base footprint and whether it will fit comfortably within your seating arrangement without becoming a trip hazard. The beauty of a tower heater is its ability to project heat over furniture, but it requires a stable, level surface.
- Heating Power & Coverage: A 2000W (2kW) output is substantial for an electric heater. This model claims to cover up to 200 square feet, which is a generous patio area. However, understand that radiant heaters warm objects and people directly, not the surrounding air. The heat will be most intense closer to the unit, so consider your typical seating distance when evaluating its performance for your needs. The three adjustable heat settings are a crucial feature for managing both comfort and energy consumption.
- Materials & Durability: Outdoor appliances face the elements, so durability is non-negotiable. Look for high-quality metals and plastics that can withstand temperature fluctuations and moisture. The Harrier’s IPX4 rating is a key specification, indicating it is protected against splashing water from any direction. This makes it suitable for typical UK outdoor conditions, though it should still be covered or stored during extreme weather.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Electric heaters generally win on this front. There are no gas bottles to replace or pilot lights to ignite. The Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater plugs directly into a mains socket, and its operation is straightforward. Maintenance typically involves little more than wiping it down with a damp cloth when cool and ensuring the heating element is free of debris. Consider the 1.8m cord length; you will likely need a suitable, weatherproof extension lead.
While the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater 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: Sturdy, Simple, and Surprisingly Swift to Set Up
Upon arrival, the box for the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater is substantial, hinting at the sturdiness within. As one user aptly noted, it genuinely took longer to unbox the components from their protective packaging than it did to assemble the unit. This speaks volumes about the intuitive design. The instructions, while present, were almost superfluous; a quick glance at the product image was enough to understand how the pole sections connect to the weighty 9kg base and how the head unit attaches. We found the materials to have a premium feel—no flimsy plastic here. The metal components feel robust and are finished in a sleek, powder-coated black that looks sophisticated in any garden setting. The 9kg base immediately inspires confidence; it provides a low centre of gravity, making the tall heater feel incredibly stable and secure, a critical consideration for any outdoor appliance. Once assembled, it stands tall and impressive, looking less like a simple appliance and more like a permanent, well-designed fixture. Its design and build quality immediately set a high bar for performance.
The Good Stuff
- Excellent build quality and very sturdy 9kg base
- Versatile 2-in-1 design for freestanding or wall-mounted use
- Powerful and direct radiant heat with 3 adjustable settings
- IPX4 rating ensures suitability for year-round outdoor use
Potential Downsides
- The 1.8m power cord is quite short and will likely require an extension
- At 9kg and over 2m tall, it’s stable but not easily moved without effort
A Deep Dive into the Harrier’s Performance and Features
A patio heater can look the part, but its true value is measured in warmth, usability, and resilience. We put the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater through its paces over several weeks of unpredictable British weather, from crisp, clear evenings to damp, chilly nights. Our in-depth testing focused on the key areas that matter most to a user: its heating capability, its design versatility, and its overall durability and practicality in a real-world garden setting.
Heating Performance: Direct, Controllable, and Effective Warmth
The core function of any patio heater is, of course, to heat. The Harrier employs a 2000-watt radiant element, and this method is key to its success outdoors. Unlike convection heaters that warm the air (which promptly blows away), radiant heat works like the sun, warming people and objects directly in its path. The moment we switched it on, we could feel the difference. There’s a near-instantaneous wave of warmth that is deeply pleasant and cuts through the evening chill effectively.
We tested the three heat settings extensively. The low setting (around 650W) is perfect for taking the edge off a mild late-summer evening, providing a gentle background warmth without being overpowering. The medium setting (around 1300W) was our most-used option, creating a comfortable “bubble” of warmth for a group of four seated around a small bistro table. It was on this setting that we replicated one user’s experience of having dinner outside and staying comfortably for hours after the meal, a testament to its effectiveness. The highest setting, a full 2000W, is truly powerful. On a genuinely cold autumn night, this setting projected significant heat, making it possible to sit outside in just a light jacket. We found the effective range at full power to be around 3-4 metres, with the heat being most concentrated within the 200 sq ft coverage area it advertises. The ability to toggle between these settings is a feature that really sets it apart for energy-conscious users, allowing you to use only as much power as you need.
Design & Versatility: A True 2-in-1 Solution
One of the standout features of the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater is its dual-purpose design. Out of the box, it assembles into a tall, freestanding tower. In this configuration, its height (up to 2.11m) is a distinct advantage, allowing it to project heat down and over the top of patio tables and chairs, warming guests from head to toe rather than just their ankles. The head unit also features a 0° to 45° tilt function, which we found incredibly useful. By angling the head downwards, we could precisely target our seating area, concentrating the warmth exactly where it was needed and minimising wasted energy heating the empty parts of the patio. This level of directional control is a significant upgrade over fixed-head models.
Where the Harrier truly innovates is with its included wall-mounting kit. For those with a more permanent setup or limited floor space, the ability to detach the heater head from the pole and mount it directly to a wall is a game-changer. This transforms it from a portable appliance into a semi-permanent fixture, ideal for positioning above an outdoor sofa or dining area. This flexibility means you’re essentially getting two products in one. You can use it as a freestanding unit for flexible placement and then, if you redesign your space, mount it to the wall for a more integrated solution. This forward-thinking design adds immense long-term value and adaptability to the product, a feature we highly commend. The versatility on offer is a major selling point.
Build Quality and Outdoor Resilience
An outdoor heater lives a tough life. It’s exposed to damp, temperature swings, and the occasional knock. Our hands-on experience confirms the initial impression of quality, which was echoed by a user who praised its “high quality materials” and “extremely well made” construction. The heavy-duty 9kg base is the anchor of the freestanding design. We tested it on a moderately breezy evening, and the heater remained rock-solid with no unnerving wobbles. This stability is crucial for safety and peace of mind, especially around children or pets.
The IPX4 rating is not just a technical specification; it’s a promise of durability. We left the heater out during a few light rain showers (though not a downpour) and it continued to function perfectly. This rating means it’s protected from splashes from all angles, making it perfectly suited for the unpredictable British climate. You won’t have to panic and rush it indoors at the first sign of drizzle. While we would always recommend using a proper cover or storing it in a shed during winter or severe weather to prolong its life, the IPX4 certification provides the confidence that it’s built to withstand typical outdoor life. This robust construction suggests that the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater is built for the long haul.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive findings are largely mirrored in the feedback from other customers. The overwhelming sentiment is one of pleasant surprise at the product’s quality and performance relative to its price point. One user stated they were “presently surprised at the quality,” noting it is “extremely well made and very sturdy.” This same individual found it so effective in their ‘man cave’ that they immediately decided to purchase a second one for their main patio.
Another buyer highlighted the ease of assembly and its immediate effectiveness, saying it “provided great adequate heat which meant that we stayed outside longer after dinner.” This directly speaks to the core purpose of the product. However, this user also pointed out a common critique we share: “the power cord could be longer as we had to use an extension.” At 1.8 metres, the cord necessitates placement near an outlet or the use of a suitable outdoor-rated extension cord, which is an important practical consideration for potential buyers. While most feedback is positive, one very brief review simply stated “No heat,” which likely points to a rare defective unit or a setup issue, as it stands in stark contrast to the majority of experiences, including our own. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a complete picture.
How Does the Harrier Compare to the Alternatives?
The Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater excels in its niche, but the market offers different solutions for different needs. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.
1. BU-KO Pyramid Patio Gas 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...
The BU-KO Pyramid is a completely different beast. As a 13kW propane gas heater, its raw heat output is significantly higher than the electric Harrier. Its key advantage is 360-degree heat distribution and complete portability, with no cords to worry about. The visible flame in the glass tube also adds a dramatic visual appeal. However, it’s larger, requires regular propane tank refills which can be costly and cumbersome, and lacks the targeted, directional heating of the Harrier. This is a better choice for someone heating a large, open-plan party space rather than a defined seating area.
2. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Propane 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)
The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy prioritises one thing above all: portability. It’s small, lightweight, and runs on small propane cartridges, making it the ultimate choice for camping, fishing, or heating a small garage or workshop where no mains power is available. Its heat output is lower than the Harrier’s, and it’s designed for smaller, more enclosed spaces. While brilliant for on-the-go warmth, it lacks the power, height, and stylish design to serve as a primary heater for a home patio setting like the Harrier does.
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 hanging heater shares the Harrier’s electric infrared technology but applies it in a different form factor. By hanging directly over a table or seating area, it provides excellent downward heat and, crucially, uses zero floor space. This makes it a superb option for smaller balconies or covered pergolas where a freestanding unit would be too intrusive. Its main limitation is its fixed position. The Harrier, in its freestanding mode, offers far more flexibility to be moved around the garden to where it’s needed most.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater Worth It?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Harrier 2000w Outdoor Patio Heater is a superb investment for anyone looking to reclaim their outdoor space from the evening chill. Its combination of powerful, directional radiant heat, excellent build quality, and outstanding 2-in-1 versatility makes it a standout product in the electric heater market. It’s incredibly easy to set up and use, and the three adjustable heat settings provide the perfect balance of comfort and energy efficiency.
While the short power cord is a minor inconvenience that’s easily solved with an extension lead, it’s a small price to pay for the performance on offer. We recommend this heater wholeheartedly to homeowners with a defined patio, deck, or gazebo area who want a reliable, stylish, and effective heating solution. It successfully delivers on its promise, allowing you to create a warm, inviting atmosphere and enjoy your garden for longer. If you’re ready to stop letting cool temperatures dictate your evenings, this is the heater that will make all the difference. You can check the latest price and secure yours today.
Last update on 2025-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API