Commercial outdoor heaters are a great fit for restaurants with al fresco dining, outdoor cafes, hotels, lounges, bars and other common gathering spaces. They enhance an establishment’s atmosphere, creating a more comfortable — and, ultimately, a more profitable — environment for you and the customer.
Read on to see what an outdoor patio heater can do for your commercial establishment and get tips for choosing the right one for your business.
Commercial patio heaters are different from the smaller outdoor heating units you might have in your backyard or camping gear. They are larger with longer-lasting fuel sources, designed to heat more expanse in less time. Because they serve in public settings, you’ll also need to follow more regulations when using them.
Types of commercial patio heaters include the following.
Commercial outdoor heaters with propane fuel are simple to set up, manage and refill. They are usually portable, which is a bonus if you need to move your heater around the patio for different events or secure it during inclement weather. Some propane heaters are tall with a mushroom roof, while others are triangular with a central heating unit. In both designs, propane sits inside the base and fuels the heater.
With these units, remembering to monitor the tank level is crucial — too little fuel and the heater will not turn on. You must also operate the heater in an open-air environment or a semi-open space with proper ventilation.
Electric patio heaters do not create emissions, but you have to keep them within range of an electrical outlet at all times. Most are not portable. Mounting an electric patio heater can take up a lot of space and isn’t always possible for establishments that don’t own the property, like rentals, catering companies or pop-ups that want to move the heater when they go. Electric heaters also use more energy than a gas patio heater, which could mean a higher electricity bill.
Natural gas heaters are similar to propane units, but typically require professional installation and need a hookup to an existing natural gas supply. The fuel isn’t accessible in all locations and markets and may require permanent fixtures.
Wood fires, fire pits, wood stoves and outdoor fireplaces are a good option for residential backyards, but not commercial spaces. Though beautiful and aromatic, wood is challenging to light and keep lit, and many places have restrictions on which type of wood you can burn. Wood fires also require ventilated areas, but with the added risk of a less manageable flame. Not all settings allow them.
Covered gas or propane fire pits look like glass- or vinyl-topped tables that take up more horizontal space but have a much smaller heating radius than standing heating units. They feature controls that let you maintain a safe, controlled flame with fewer fire hazards. These fire pits light at the touch of a button and burn cleanly, requiring almost no maintenance to keep them looking clean and burning bright. They’re also more energy-efficient and produce fewer emissions, so you’ll save money and protect the environment simultaneously.
If your restaurant has usable outdoor space, a commercial-grade outdoor patio heater is what you need to bring it to life and maximize its value.
Consult building codes, local ordinances and the fire code before investing in an outdoor patio heater for your business. Some places have specific regulations regarding placement, construction, storage and fuel type. Once you know what you’re working with, consider the following factors.
Fuel options include propane, natural gas, electricity and wood. Outdoor heaters only operate on one fuel type, and you cannot mix and match fuel sources. Propane is the ideal fuel because it’s easy to replace when you run low and creates a warm heat that reaches far without outlet restrictions or extension cords.
Depending on your patio size, you may need multiple outdoor heaters to warm the area effectively. The average covered patio requires about one outdoor heater per 1,500 to 2,000 square feet, and the average heater can usually warm patrons within a 20-foot radius.
Most propane heaters are freestanding, with a built-in weight system that keeps them sturdy in the wind. Some have openings for you to add weight, such as sandbags. Mounted outdoor heaters are typically electric because they require permanent hardwiring to operate efficiently.
Some outdoor heaters have additional features to enhance the user experience and make it safer to enjoy, such as:
Your commercial outdoor heater should also be stylish and similar to your current design. Most are available in stainless steel or bronze, in a variety of colors and finishes. While heaters should never create a naked flame, many guests enjoy the sight of flickering firelight, so a heater with some protected visibility could be a natural focal point in your outdoor area.
You don’t need matches, lighter fluid or a fire starter to light a propane heater. When you turn it on, a hose will move propane to the burner. You’ll hear a soft hissing sound when you’re successful. Some units require a pressure regulator and hose assembly. Every heater is different, and you must follow all manufacturer instructions for successful setup and use.
Most outdoor heating units follow a few general rules.
Never move or interfere with your heater while it’s on. Extinguish the light and turn all knobs off before proceeding. If you’re covering or moving your unit, allow it to cool fully, and do not move it with an open flame. Consider lifting your heater with a partner to avoid dropping or breaking it. If your heater isn’t working correctly, consult the manufacturer book and check for hose kinks or low fuel pressure.
If you have any questions about setting up your patio heater and connecting it to a propane tank, feel free to contact Foster Fuels. We’re happy to walk you through the process, hook up your tank or give you a refuel.
Never use an indoor heater or residential fuel tank for a commercial unit. Not only is this illegal in most areas, but it’s also unsafe and won’t heat your dining area as effectively.
Other safety tips to know include:
A portable propane heater can boost your business’ marketability and create a more enjoyable experience for your guests. Since 1921, Foster Fuels has supplied businesses like yours with year-round, commercial-grade propane refills and delivery service. Contact a Foster Fuels representative to learn more or get specific propane recommendations for your heating needs.