Essential Tips for Buying Outdoor Infrared Heaters in 2024

The demand for residential and commercial outdoor heaters continues to grow across North America. This trend is driven by the lifestyle improvements experienced by homeowners and the increased profits enjoyed by businesses in the hospitality sector. In 2023, the outdoor heater market in the U.S. surpassed $155 billion and is projected to reach $223 billion by 2030. This figure includes both residential and commercial purchases, but the pandemic played a significant role in driving businesses to install more heaters, especially since 7 out of 10 customers prefer outdoor dining, according to the National Restaurant Association. Restaurants offering open-air dining reportedly see a profit boost of over 30%. Rather than shutting down this lucrative revenue stream, restaurateurs can extend the operating hours and seasons by strategically positioning natural gas, electric, or propane patio heaters. If you're thinking of purchasing infrared heaters, AEI Corp offers a diverse range of reliable products.

Mushroom and Horizontal Heaters

When selecting the ideal residential or commercial patio heaters, it's important to recognize 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 coverage area. One of the standout features of this advanced technology is that it heats objects directly rather than affecting the surrounding air. This means that even if there's a breeze, people still feel warm. Horizontal heaters also utilize infrared technology, but the key difference lies in how they are installed. These rectangular heaters can be secured to an overhang, wall, or post. In some cases, they can be flush-mounted and tilted to cover a wider heat radius. Property and business owners often 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 be using. Both home and business owners should keep in mind that AEI Corp infrared heaters can run on liquid propane, natural gas, or electricity. Cost-effectiveness and convenience are common reasons for choosing a specific fuel type. Here's a breakdown of the options:

• Natural Gas Patio Heaters: Existing gas lines make natural gas a popular choice. A certified professional can set up a dedicated line. Natural gas is both economical and environmentally friendly.
• Propane Patio Heaters: Mushroom heaters can house a propane tank in their base, allowing them to be easily moved around. Propane lines can also be installed for fixed propane heaters.
• Electric Patio Heaters: Owners can connect to existing electrical systems to power infrared heaters. A licensed electrician can install a dedicated line.

Mounting Options for Outdoor Heaters

We offer top-tier outdoor heaters with various mounting options. This is a crucial aspect when purchasing the best infrared heaters for outdoor spaces. For example, mushroom designs can serve as portable propane heaters. These heaters can be moved strategically to rearrange seating areas. However, the Sunglo natural gas heater must be securely mounted overhead. The same applies to natural gas mushroom heaters that can be attached to posts in the ground. Horizontal outdoor heaters provide a wide range of mounting possibilities, whether you choose natural gas, propane, or electricity. These box heaters can be suspended from ceilings to bring warmth closer to seating areas. Many of the AEI horizontal heaters come with mounting accessories that allow installers to tilt them efficiently. Some can even be flush-mounted to walls, ceilings, posts, and other structures. The critical point is that AEI provides extensive mounting options to help property owners and businesses create the most efficient outdoor heating system possible. When planning any patio heater setup, consider manufacturer-recommended clearances and the location of combustible materials.

Strategic Placement of Patio Heaters

One of the biggest advantages of installing infrared heaters is that the warmth they provide isn't affected by a light breeze. Because the radiant heat affects people rather than the surrounding air, proper placement is key to creating a welcoming infrared heating system. When designing your patio heater layout, review the BTU ratings and heating distances provided by both portable and fixed heaters. For instance, to effectively cover the floor space of a veranda, it might be practical to install horizontal heaters that can be suspended. This option allows business operators and homeowners to place them optimally to counteract chilly weather. Similarly, using portable mushroom head heaters to promote al fresco dining requires covering each seated guest. This strategy not only attracts more customers but also encourages them to stay longer. While designing an outdoor infrared heating system might seem complex, AEI provides all the specifications needed for the average DIY enthusiast to create a plan. Review the manuals of heaters suitable for your space. Note the throw radius of your preferred infrared heaters and measure the designated area. Plan an installation where the range of each heater overlaps 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 in gaps.

Stylish Finishes for Outdoor Heaters

All of the AEI brands offer unique finishes that complement outdoor aesthetics. Whether you want a heater that blends into the background, matches an existing color scheme, or adds a decorative touch, 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 mushroom heater is available in classic stainless steel and black. This line also includes a stylish hanging heater that resembles a chandelier, providing a creative addition to outdoor spaces while keeping guests cozy.
• Sunpak: This overhead horizontal heater line is available in black or stainless steel. They are commonly used in commercial settings.
• SunStar: Designed to endure harsh weather, these horizontal heaters are available in black or stainless steel. Their value is enhanced by their durability and 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 affecting decor, while stainless steel finishes add a standout element, enhancing spaces with an industrial look.