If you are a pub landlord, restaurateur or homeowner, then you’ve probably looked into the possibility of purchasing an outdoor heater. During the chilly summer evenings or cold winter days, this additional warmth will keep regulars, diners and guests happy. However, if you’ve ever searched online for outdoor patio heaters, you’ll no doubt know have seen the reviews and that there are extensive options available. Some are fuelled by gas, others by oil, but all will set out their respective boons and benefits. But in recent years, infrared patio heaters have become increasingly popular, as they bring about a number of advantages that the alternatives can’t compete with. Even so, you’ll want to make sure you select the right product for your wants and needs. With this in mind, here is how to choose an infrared patio heater.
Infrared Heater Benefits
Before we delve into what you should be looking for, let’s recap why infrared patio heaters are better than oil and gas options.
- Instant heat – Infrared heaters are capable of delivering instantaneous heat to your party guests or evening diners, whereas oil and gas alternatives take a bit of time to warm-up.
- Consistent heat – Oil and gas heaters will attempt to warm up the air, which soon rises and escapes. But infrared heaters target nearby objects instead, which absorb the energy and dissipates it consistently.
- Eco-friendly – Infrared patio heaters do not require fossil fuel to work and do not produce any toxic carbon dioxide, meaning they are very eco-friendly.
- Energy efficient – Featuring a reflecting metal that transfers almost 100 per cent of energy created, infrared patio heaters are extremely energy efficient.
- Quiet operation – With no fan or motor whirring away in the background, your garden or outside space will remain quiet, serene and peaceful.
- Cost-effective – Due to great energy efficiency and the absence of fuel, infrared patio heaters are incredibly cost-effective.
Choosing an Infrared Patio Heater
Give thought to the following advice and you should be able to find an infrared patio heater that suits you.
- Think about location – Where will your infrared patio heater be located? Generally speaking, they are most effective when installed high up horizontally, so from an overhead awning or trellis. This will deliver a uniform spread of heat to those sitting or standing below. By installing an infrared patio heater in this location, you can also change the beams direction, as nearly all options will have an adjustable reflector.
- Bigger isn’t always better – You may find that some infrared patio heaters will have a high IP (ingress proof) rating. It is tempting to choose the most powerful heater available, but if installed undercover, this may be too overwhelming for those below. So, always buy an infrared patio heater according to your location and environment.
- Avoid cheaper options – Utilising similar technology, quartz and halogen heaters also promise effective and efficient outdoor heating. However, these are usually manufactured to a poor standard, featuring ordinary glass that doesn’t allow heat to pass through and can actually shatter when warm. What’s more, they typically produce a very fierce, short wave heat that doesn’t spread very wide. Coupled with a bright light, this can cause “burning head” and “dry eye” among people sitting or standing too close.
- Don’t forget about running costs – Despite the fact infrared patio heaters operate at a cost-effective low wattage, it is still possible to save money in other ways. Consider having a push button or motion sensor so that it can be turned off when not in use. Remember that infrared patio heaters work instantly when additional warmth is required. A thermostat control can also adjust the temperature for colder and warmer times of the year.
For more help and advice on choosing the right infrared patio heater, be sure to get in touch with Infrared Heaters Direct.