Heating a large terrace, a party tent for an event or warming the smoking area - there is hardly any limit to the use of radiant heaters. Depending on the purpose, the radiant heaters are mounted differently. Patio heaters with lamps angled in different directions can warm entire seating groups from above, while individual heat lamps can be positioned specifically. When doing so, make sure that no obstacles prevent direct irradiation. In addition, it should not be possible to touch the heat lamps. It is also important that the wiring does not pose a trip hazard. Outdoor connections protected from rain or cabling close to the wall are a good option.
Basically, radiant heaters can be divided into two different types: Infrared radiant heaters and gas radiant heaters. In addition, there are differences in mounting: It the classic mushroom heaters can be simply set up like other stand heaters. But there are also wall heaters and radiators that can be mounted on the ceiling or a parasol.
Infrared radiant heaters are designed not only to warm the surrounding air, but also to direct a direct flow of heat to guests - comparable, for example, to the warming rays of the sun. In addition, infrared heaters completely eliminate the need for lengthy preheating - the heat supply is available immediately. Infrared radiant heaters can be used both outdoors and indoors. Indoor use is worthwhile especially if you do not want to heat individual areas all the time. However, one disadvantage of electronic radiant heaters is the dependence on the power supply and, therefore, on a power outlet nearby.
Gas radiant heaters are often used for non-directional, large-scale heating. The devices usually have a high heat output, but require relatively short heating times. The fuel used by gas radiant heaters is liquefied petroleum gas, usually a mixture of butane and propane gas. However, the exhaust gases of the devices cannot be completely avoided. Among other things, toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, are produced during the combustion process. Therefore, gas radiant heaters should not be used in enclosed spaces.
Gas radiant heaters emit their heat to the surrounding air, while infrared radiant heaters emit their heat in a targeted manner. With a gas radiant heater, you are independent of electrical outlets, so you can place the device wherever you want - a big advantage, especially outdoors! A clear minus point of gas radiant heaters is that you have to replace the gas tank from time to time. With an infrared radiant heater, you do not have to worry about such failures, but the costs for the same heat output are usually higher. For businesses with outdoor catering, the advantages of all radiant heaters are that guests can stay outside longer in cooler weather and in the fresher evening and night hours. Smoking areas can also be pleasantly heated in this way - a real plus in terms of customer friendliness and, not least, a powerful sales booster!
Protection from the sun and heat during the day, protection from the cold in the evening: equip your sunshades with a radiant heater and extend the period for using your outdoor area. The heat is optimally distributed under the protection of the umbrella and allows your guests to enjoy your stay outdoors even on cold days. The heater can be easily attached to the parasol and is operated with a simple on/off switch. All radiant heaters meet European safety standards, which is why their use under parasols is not a problem.
Sunshades with radiant heater is also perfect to deliver smokers more comfort.
General energy costs continue to skyrocket in both the residential and commercial sectors, with no end in sight. The importance of climate and environmental protection has also increased immensely in recent years. If you compare infrared and gas radiant heaters in terms of CO2 emissions, the difference in terms of climate protection is only slight: For infrared radiant heaters, the hourly emission value is between 40 and 85 grams of CO2 per square meter (mean value: 74 grams) and for gas heaters between 37 and 114 grams of CO2 per square meter (mean value: 66 grams).
Because of the negative ecological balance, radiant heaters are banned in many cities and municipalities. There is no uniform regulation here - each region establishes different regulations. So check with your local authorities to find out whether or not you are allowed to use radiant heaters in the outdoor area of your catering establishment.