Suspended Heaters Are Outdoor Patio Game-Changers

When it comes to keeping your outdoor space warm and inviting, classic mushroom head patio heaters are often the go-to choice. These iconic designs are widely popular among restaurants and homeowners alike, thanks to their recognizable shape and effective heating range. However, there are alternative options out there that deserve more attention—specifically, suspended heaters. These innovative solutions blend seamlessly into your environment while providing the same cozy atmosphere as traditional heaters.

Suspended heaters offer the same delightful experience of enjoying fresh air, delicious meals, and meaningful conversations with loved ones. The key difference lies in how they integrate into your space. Unlike portable heaters, suspended heaters are fixed overhead, making them less intrusive and more subtle. You might not notice them as much as you would a standing patio heater, but their impact on your comfort is undeniable. Before deciding on a portable heater, consider whether a suspended model could better suit your needs based on the layout and purpose of your outdoor area.

Key Differences Between Suspended and Portable Heaters

Both suspended and portable infrared patio heaters can provide warmth and comfort, no matter if you're running a restaurant, managing a business, or enhancing your personal outdoor space. Brands like AEI Corporation excel in offering a variety of options, including the Patio Comfort and Sunglo mushroom heaters for portability, alongside suspended heaters like the Sunglo, Infratech, and Sunpak models. All these products utilize advanced infrared technology to emit heat that warms objects rather than just the air, ensuring consistent warmth that won't be disrupted by wind. Although these similarities make both types practical, answering certain questions may help you decide whether suspended heaters are the ideal choice for your situation.

Are You Dealing With Limited Floor Space?

Portable heaters fueled by liquid propane tanks can generally be moved around to rearrange your outdoor setup. However, this flexibility comes at the cost of taking up valuable floor space. Positioning these heaters within the optimal heating range requires careful planning. On the other hand, suspended heaters are mounted above your seating area, maximizing your usable floor space. Owners simply adjust the output via a control panel, allowing for effortless management of heating zones. This feature makes suspended heaters particularly advantageous for restaurants looking to optimize their seating arrangements.

Do You Have a Permanent Overhang to Protect Against Bad Weather?

Suspended heaters are especially well-suited for areas with sturdy permanent overhangs, such as verandas and gazebos. These structures provide the necessary support for securely installing heaters like the Sunpak or Infratech models, provided they comply with manufacturer guidelines. Verandas equipped with suspended heaters become multi-seasonal living spaces, capable of hosting gatherings even during colder months. The same principle applies to commercial settings like restaurants where suspended heaters transform outdoor areas into year-round customer hubs.

What Fuel Sources Are Available?

Mushroom heaters typically rely on convenient liquid propane tanks stored in their bases or direct natural gas connections. This versatility allows them to be placed virtually anywhere. Conversely, suspended heaters lack a base for storing fuel tanks, limiting their fuel options primarily to natural gas and electricity. As natural gas becomes increasingly accessible, homeowners and business owners can choose overhead heaters connected directly to this eco-friendly resource. Those with existing liquid propane lines have similar options. For those without such infrastructure, hiring an electrician to set up an electrical connection for an Infratech heater is a cost-effective solution. Regardless of your current setup, suspended heaters offer flexibility without requiring additional fuel installations.

Advantages of Choosing Suspended Heaters

To fully benefit from suspended patio heaters, ensure that your chosen installation site has a strong structural foundation. Box heaters can also be wall-mounted, projecting heat from the sides when appropriate. These models usually connect to a control panel akin to light switches. Many users prefer heat controls and timers to prevent unnecessary energy waste. While portable heaters extend the usability of outdoor spaces under the stars, suspended heaters consistently deliver tangible advantages once installed.

• Suspended heaters maximize available floor space
• They come in styles powered by natural gas or electricity
• Hung mushroom heaters enhance aesthetic appeal
• Box heaters blend inconspicuously into surroundings
• Mountable on robust overhangs and walls
• Transform gazebos and verandas into all-weather zones

For those considering suspended heaters, the Sunpak series offers models in stainless steel and black tones that subtly integrate into any setting. These heaters produce between 25,000 and 34,000 BTUs. The electricity-driven Infratech line includes single and dual-element options with extensive customization through control panels and Accessories. The Sunglo mushroom head suspended variants generate upwards of 50,000 BTUs and create a stylish ambiance that complements both homes and businesses.

Some spaces may indeed benefit from portable patio heaters, but others require suspended heaters to fully enjoy their potential irrespective of external temperatures. High-quality infrared outdoor heaters can boost business profitability and enhance personal living experiences.