Hotels Elevating Their Experience with Outdoor Heaters
5-minute read | Patio Heaters

Bringing the Warmth Outside
As a hotel or resort manager, ensuring guest satisfaction is key. While outdoor activities are a hit during the warmer months, what can you do to keep those experiences going during cooler weather? Offering outdoor heating solutions can extend the comfort and enjoyment of your guests, even when temperatures drop. One effective way is by introducing portable heaters. These devices from AEI provide a practical and safe method to keep your guests cozy when it gets chilly. Keep in mind, outdoor heaters don’t increase the ambient temperature—they create a localized warmth that makes being outside more pleasant when there’s a chill in the air. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of both installed and portable outdoor heaters.
Installed Heaters
Pros: These heaters are securely fastened to the ground, wall, or ceiling, eliminating concerns about guests knocking them over. If you choose an electrically powered installed heater, installation can be straightforward—just mount it and plug it in for instant use. Alternatively, you can opt for a more aesthetically pleasing flush-mounted option, which typically requires professional installation but blends seamlessly with your environment. Cons: The downside of installed heaters is their immobility. Once they’re set up, they remain in that exact spot, limiting your flexibility to adjust to changing needs.
Portable Heaters
Pros: Portable heaters are flexible and easy to move around. This gives you the ability to direct heat exactly where it’s needed most, making them ideal for dynamic spaces. Plus, they generally have lower installation costs since they don’t require permanent fixtures. Cons: Propane-powered portable heaters require frequent tank replacements, which can become costly. Additionally, they shouldn’t be used under covered areas. If you opt for a natural gas-powered portable heater, your relocation options may be limited due to the placement of the gas line.
Understanding Patio Heater Options
Once you’ve decided to enhance your guests’ experience with outdoor heaters, you’ll need to choose the right type for your property. Most patio heaters operate on either natural gas, propane, or electricity. Beyond fuel type, you can also select heaters based on their mounting features. The three main categories are:
- Freestanding heaters
- Wall-mounted heaters
- Tabletop patio heaters
The freestanding heater is the most popular choice. Often fueled by propane, these heaters can be placed almost anywhere with a flat surface. They typically come with a base that stores the propane and stabilizes the unit. Connected to the base is a pole that directs the heat upwards. At the top of the pole is a reflector, which helps minimize heat loss by directing the warmth downward and outward, maximizing coverage. Many freestanding heaters feature adjustable reflectors, allowing you to focus heat where it’s needed most. For even more efficient heating, consider heaters with infrared technology, which heats objects directly rather than the surrounding air, offering better control in outdoor environments. Infratech heaters are particularly efficient and cost-effective for commercial use.
Tabletop and wall-mounted heaters are similar to freestanding models but are designed to attach to surfaces. These heaters are often smaller than their freestanding counterparts and work well in areas like picnic tables where guests gather socially. Tabletop heaters are ideal for outdoor dining setups and can be fueled by propane or electricity. Wall-mounted heaters are advantageous because they save floor space while providing warmth. This makes them a great option in smaller patios where there’s no room for freestanding units. The Sunglo model PSA 265 is a fantastic choice for floor-mounting and works well in uncovered patio areas. It’s also a great fit for pergolas. For covered settings, the Sunglo model A2444 is an excellent option, capable of being mounted on walls or suspended in the air.
Adding Comfort and Warmth to Your Property
Installing outdoor heaters can transform various areas of your hotel or resort, creating a welcoming and cozy atmosphere. Consider the areas where guests spend the most time outdoors, such as valet waiting zones or the entrance to your lobby. An outdoor heater in these spots will not only keep guests warm but also provide comfort for staff. Pool areas, barbecue zones, and any patio seating areas can also benefit from the addition of heaters.
For instance, imagine the difference it could make for guests arriving at your hotel—having a warm, inviting entrance will leave a lasting impression. The patio comfort heaters available in different colors and fuel options—propane, electric, or natural gas—are versatile enough to suit any setting.
Need more details? Have questions? Contact us today—we’d love to help!
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