Your Complete Guide to Infrared Patio Heaters

Outdoor infrared heaters are a fantastic way to add warmth and coziness to your patio, dining area, grilling space, and more. With these powerful, safe, and convenient heating appliances from AEI, you can extend your outdoor living season and enjoy the weather with friends and family year-round.

Infrared Heaters

Although infrared heating technology isn’t new, it remains somewhat novel compared to traditional heating methods. Naturally, people often have questions about how it works and its benefits. To address common queries and misconceptions, our team of experts at AEI Corporation has compiled this guide to help you understand infrared heaters better.

Infrared heaters generate heat using infrared light, regardless of their fuel source—whether it’s propane, natural gas, or electricity. All three types are highly energy-efficient and safe, with the difference lying mainly in their installation and usage flexibility.

These heaters are perfect for outdoor patios and other open-air spaces. At AEI, we offer both mushroom-shaped and box-shaped designs that are widely used in homes and businesses across North America.

Natural Gas Heaters

A natural gas patio heater is an excellent choice for any setting, offering versatility and convenience. These heaters typically come in two classic styles: the iconic round mushroom shape or the practical box-shaped option. Depending on your preference, they can be floor-mounted, wall-mounted, or even suspended overhead.

One major advantage of natural gas heaters is that they’re permanently connected to your home’s gas line. This eliminates the hassle of refilling fuel tanks and ensures you can turn the heater on whenever needed. However, because they’re fixed in place, it’s wise to pair them with portable propane units to handle larger gatherings or varying activities.

If you prefer natural gas but don’t currently have a gas line, you’ll need to consult with a contractor and your local utility provider to set one up. This process can take time, so plan accordingly if you’re considering this option.

Propane Heaters

Liquid propane heaters are a popular choice for portable outdoor heating solutions. These units offer distinct advantages depending on their configuration. Let’s explore what you should know about propane heaters.

Propane heaters generally come in the versatile mushroom shape, which provides even heat distribution over a full 360 degrees. Some models also come in a box shape, ideal for directing heat toward specific areas.

Propane mushroom heaters are the only truly portable option, as they rely on onboard propane tanks that require periodic refilling. These heaters can also be permanently mounted on poles or suspended from ceilings if desired.

Since they operate on onboard propane tanks, portable propane heaters can be moved freely according to your needs. This makes them ideal for residential use, allowing you to store them away during the off-season or secure them for added safety. For permanent installations, especially in places without access to natural gas, propane heaters are a solid alternative. However, most commercial properties favor natural gas or electric heaters for fixed installations.

It’s important to note that propane tanks need regular replacement or refilling. Always keep a spare tank handy, and familiarize yourself with the process of swapping tanks—it’s easier than it sounds and becomes routine with practice.

Electric Infrared Heaters

Lastly, we have electric-powered infrared heaters. While they come with numerous advantages, there are a few limitations worth mentioning.

At AEI, our electric heaters are exclusively box-shaped, but they’re available in various sizes and output capacities to meet your specific heating requirements. Electric heaters must be permanently installed since they require direct wiring into your home’s electrical system. Despite this, you still have the option to mount them in walls or ceilings.

With a flush-mount kit, wall or ceiling-mounted electric heaters can be installed flush with the surrounding surface. This creates a sleek, low-profile appearance that blends seamlessly into your space. The design, mounting options, and power source provide a broader range of control and customization options compared to other types.

Our electric heaters offer several control options. You can choose simple on/off switches or opt for dial controls. For advanced users, our smart control packages include features like remote operation via mobile devices, allowing for automation and personalized settings.

Keep in mind that electric infrared heaters are permanently wired into your electrical system. Once installed, they cannot be unplugged or moved easily. Due to their high power consumption, proper grounding is essential, meaning they must be professionally installed and removed by qualified electricians.

Quick Infrared Heater Reference Guide

Infrared

All AEI heaters produce infrared heat, whether powered by propane, natural gas, or electricity.

Propane Heater

• Portable or fixed installation
• Come in mushroom and box shapes
• Wide range of control options

Natural Gas Patio Heater

• Fixed installation only
• Come in mushroom and box shapes
• Various control options

Electric Patio Heater

• Fixed installation only
• Box shape only
• Variety of sizes and output capacities
• Extensive control options

Have more questions? Reach out to us today! Our team is excited to help you explore our extensive range of exterior gas heaters and electric models.