Mount Your Infrared Patio Heaters to Maximize Comfort & Return on Investment

Restaurateurs and hospitality professionals are increasingly relying on overhead and portable patio heaters to keep customers comfortable during cooler evenings and through the winter. During the pandemic, propane patio heaters helped businesses make the most of outdoor seating, boosting sales and customer engagement. As a result, many operators have embraced the benefits of extended seating areas and late-night gathering spaces. This trend is driving the outdoor heater market to grow significantly, from $1.27 billion in 2023 to an estimated $1.88 billion by 2030.

But for restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, resorts, and other public-facing operations to truly succeed, installing infrared patio heaters must be done with care. The placement of natural gas, propane, or electric patio heaters needs to maximize each unit’s effective heat range. If not positioned correctly, you could end up with cold spots that frustrate guests and reduce the value of your investment.

To ensure your infrared heaters deliver optimal performance and return on investment, here are some key considerations for hospitality decision-makers.

Placing Mushroom Head Propane Patio Heaters

If you haven’t used infrared heaters before, it's important to understand how they differ from traditional flame-based models. Infrared technology works by warming objects and people directly, rather than heating the air. This means that even if a breeze blows through, the warmth remains consistent and comfortable for your guests.

A mushroom head infrared heater typically provides warmth within a 12 to 20-foot radius. To avoid cold zones, these heaters should be placed with a slight overlap in their coverage area. In smaller spaces like bistro seating, one or two units may be sufficient. However, larger outdoor areas require careful planning to align heater placement with table and chair layouts.

One major advantage of propane-powered mushroom head heaters is their portability. They come with a built-in liquid propane tank in the base, allowing you to move them easily when needed. This flexibility makes them ideal for reconfiguring your outdoor space for special events or large groups.

Creating a Natural Gas Patio Heater System

Natural gas patio heaters are often fixed in place, especially those with mushroom heads. These heaters are popular among restaurants looking to extend the use of their outdoor spaces. Many establishments already have natural gas lines in place, making installation straightforward.

Once a natural gas heater is installed, it cannot be moved easily. This means that placement decisions must be made carefully, as they become part of your permanent layout. For added flexibility, hanging mushroom head heaters powered by natural gas or propane can be suspended from ceilings or beams. They require strong overhead structures but offer a sleek, modern look while providing efficient heating.

Placing Overhead Patio Heaters

Overhead patio heaters, often called "box heaters," are commonly used in semi-enclosed spaces. These units can run on natural gas, propane, or electricity and are designed to provide efficient, targeted heat. Choosing the right type depends on your existing infrastructure and energy costs.

Natural Gas Overhead Heaters

While traditionally mounted on ceilings, natural gas box heaters can also be installed horizontally on walls or posts. This offers more versatility in how you use your space. Ceiling- and wall-mounted models typically cover a range of 6 to 14 feet. By overlapping their heat zones, you can ensure complete coverage for your guests, even in chilly weather.

Electric Overhead Heaters

Electric patio heaters function similarly to gas models but require a power source. They are ideal for businesses already connected to the grid or using solar energy. Installation involves running a dedicated line and setting up a control panel. Some models even feature flush-mount frames for a clean, unobtrusive look.

Propane Overhead Heaters

Propane-powered overhead heaters are another great option, especially for locations without access to natural gas. Like portable models, they use a fuel tank and can be controlled via a panel. While they offer similar performance to gas and electric units, they still require proper spacing from walls, ceilings, and other structures for safety.

What Are the Best Infrared Heaters for Hospitality Businesses?

To get the most out of your infrared heating system, proper positioning is key. For example, wall-mounted box heaters should be angled downward to direct heat toward guests rather than empty space. The same applies to ceiling-mounted or post-mounted units.

Some top-performing models include:

• Patio Comfort: A 40,000 BTU portable mushroom heater with a 5-gallon propane tank. It has a 12-foot throw radius and comes in several finishes.
• Sunglo: A fixed-in-place model available for both natural gas and propane. It delivers a 12-foot circular heat range.
• Sunpak: An overhead box heater with 25,000–34,000 BTU output. It covers up to 144 square feet and is ideal for semi-enclosed spaces.
• Sunstar: A high-output heater that uses either natural gas or propane. It provides 34,000 BTU over 144 square feet and is suitable for harsh climates.
• Infratech: A fully electric option with 90% energy efficiency, perfect for all-season rooms and covered patios.

Choosing the right setup can be complex, so don’t hesitate to reach out to experts like AEI Corp. for guidance on how many heaters you need and where to place them for maximum comfort and ROI.

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