Essential Tips for Buying Outdoor Infrared Heaters in 2024

Tips for Buying Outdoor Infrared Heaters in 2024

10 minute read | Heaters

The outdoor heater market is booming in North America, driven by the growing demand for residential and commercial patio heaters. These heaters are enhancing the quality of life for homeowners and boosting profits for businesses in the hospitality sector. In 2023, the U.S. market for outdoor heaters surpassed $155 billion, and projections indicate it could reach $223 billion by 2030. This figure encompasses both residential and commercial purchases, with many businesses installing heaters to capitalize on the trend of outdoor dining, which has seen a significant rise since the pandemic. According to the National Restaurant Association, 70% of customers prefer eating outside. Restaurants offering open-air dining have reported a profit increase of more than 30%. Instead of shutting down this profitable revenue stream, restaurateurs can extend the operating hours and seasons by strategically placing natural gas, electric, and propane patio heaters. If you're considering purchasing infrared heaters, AEI Corp offers a diverse range of reliable products."

Mushroom and Horizontal Heaters

"When selecting the best residential or commercial patio heaters, it's crucial to understand that these products fall into two main categories: mushroom head and horizontal infrared heaters. Mushroom patio heaters, whether fixed or portable, distribute radiant heat in a circular pattern. The 360-degree infrared heat warms objects within its throw radius without significantly affecting the surrounding air. This means a breeze won't disrupt the warmth people feel. On the other hand, horizontal heaters also utilize infrared technology but differ in that they must be secured to an overhang, wall, or post. Some of these rectangular infrared heaters can be flush-mounted and adjusted to cover a wider heat-throw radius. A common strategy among property and business owners is to overlap the radiant warmth to cover entire areas."

Selecting Infrared Heaters Based on Fuel Type

"When purchasing residential or commercial patio heaters, it's wise to begin by considering the type of fuel you'll use. Homeowners and business operators should remember that AEI Corp infrared heaters can be powered by liquid propane, natural gas, or electricity. Cost-effectiveness and easy access are key considerations when choosing a fuel source.
  • Natural Gas Patio Heaters: An existing gas line is a major reason for choosing a natural gas heater. A certified contractor can install a dedicated line. Natural gas is both economical and environmentally friendly.
  • Propane Patio Heaters: Mushroom heaters can house a propane tank in their base, making them portable and easy to move around. Similar to natural gas, existing propane lines can also be connected to fixed propane heaters.
  • Electric Patio Heaters: Homeowners and business owners can connect to existing electrical systems to power infrared heaters. A certified electrician can install a dedicated line into the property's electrical grid.
When deciding on a heater based on fuel type, it's essential to note that AEI offers mushroom and horizontal outdoor heaters that can run on liquid propane and natural gas. Portable heaters can only be fueled by liquid propane, whereas fixed horizontal heaters can leverage existing electricity."

Mounting Options for Outdoor Heaters

"We offer industry-leading outdoor heaters with various mounting options. This is a critical aspect of purchasing the best infrared heaters for outdoor spaces. For instance, mushroom heaters can be used as portable propane heaters. These can be moved strategically to rearrange seating areas. However, the Sunglo natural gas heater must be mounted securely. The same applies to natural gas mushroom heaters that can be attached to posts. Horizontal heaters offer numerous mounting options, whether powered by natural gas, propane, or electricity. These box heaters can be suspended from ceilings to bring the warmth closer to seating areas. Many AEI horizontal heaters come with mounting accessories that allow installers to position them effectively. Some can even be flush-mounted to walls, ceilings, posts, and other structures. The key point is that AEI provides extensive mounting options to help property owners and businesses set up the most efficient outdoor heating system. When planning any heater setup, always consider manufacturer-recommended clearances and the location of flammable materials."

Placement of Patio Heaters

"One of the greatest advantages of installing infrared heaters is that the warmth they provide isn't affected by light breezes. Since radiant heat affects people rather than the surrounding air, proper placement is vital for a comfortable heating system. When designing your patio heater layout, review the BTU ratings and heating distances of both portable and fixed heaters. For example, to efficiently cover the floor space of a veranda, it might be wise to install horizontal heaters that can be suspended. This option allows business operators and homeowners to place them where they can best counteract chilly weather. Similarly, using portable mushroom heaters to encourage al fresco dining requires covering each seated guest. This strategy not only attracts more customers but also encourages them to stay longer. Although designing an outdoor infrared heating system may seem complex, AEI provides all the specifications needed for the average person to create a plan. Review the manuals of heaters that suit your space. Note the throw radius of your chosen infrared heaters and measure the area. Plan an installation that overlaps the range of each heater with the next to ensure maximum comfort. If one type of heater doesn't fully cover an area due to obstacles, it's perfectly acceptable to incorporate portable propane heaters to fill any gaps."

Attractive Finishes for Outdoor Heaters

"All AEI brands offer distinctive finishes that complement outdoor decor. Whether you want a heater that blends into the background, matches an existing color scheme, or enhances the visual appeal of a space, AEI outdoor heaters offer the following options.
  • Patio Comfort: These traditional portable mushroom heaters come in finishes like stainless steel, antique bronze, jet silver, and antique.
  • Sunglo: This post-mounted version of the mushroom heater is available in classic stainless steel and black. This line also includes a hanging heater that resembles a chandelier, offering a unique way to add flair while keeping guests warm.
  • Sunpak: This overhead horizontal heater line is available in black or stainless steel. They are commonly used in commercial settings as suspended heaters.
  • SunStar: Designed to endure harsh weather, these horizontal heaters can be chosen in black or stainless steel. Their added value lies in their ability to function well even after storms, thanks to their uniquely tinted glass.
  • Infratech: This is the only line of electric horizontal heaters offered. Black finishes allow buyers to blend them into an overhead area without impacting the décor. Stainless steel finishes provide a striking element that enhances spaces, especially industrial-looking ones.
AEI Corp offers five select lines of infrared heaters — Patio Comfort, Sunglo, Sunpak, SunStar, and Infratech. All these reliable patio heaters provide excellent warmth and enable people to stay outdoors even during colder nights."
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