Patio heaters for restaurants: Increased revenue through year-round outdoor use
Whether it's an inconspicuous dark radiator under the awning or a flexible standing spotlight in the beer garden: Discover energy-efficient solutions that will keep your guests staying longer.
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Who would benefit from using patio heaters in the catering industry?
The equation is simple: Warm guests stay longer and order more. Especially in times when outdoor areas are becoming increasingly important (smoking areas, outdoor dining), a reliable heat source is a direct revenue driver.
Infrared heaters are the ideal solution for cafes, restaurants, hotels, and beer gardens that want to use their terraces not just in the height of summer. Unlike old gas patio heaters, they are space-saving, odorless, and significantly cheaper to operate .
Infrared vs. Gas: Why Electric is the Future
Many restaurant owners are switching from gas to infrared heating. The advantages are obvious:
| criterion | Infrared heater (electric) | Patio heater (gas) |
|---|---|---|
| Type of heat | Immediate deep heat (like the sun), independent of wind | It warms the air (but blows away quickly in the wind). |
| Operating costs | Cost-effective | Expensive and fluctuating (gas prices) |
| Handling | Maintenance-free, no bottle changes required | lugging heavy gas cylinders and storing them |
| Environment | Emission-free (CO2-neutral with green electricity) | Emits CO2 (often banned in cities) |
Which spotlight suits your concept?
1. The inconspicuous ones: Wall and ceiling radiant heaters
Ideal for fixed seating areas on facades or under awnings. These units don't take up any floor space – a huge advantage in congested city centers.
Our recommendation: Use swiveling wall-mounted radiant heaters to direct the heat precisely where the guest is sitting.
2. The Flexible Ones: Freestanding Radiant Heaters
Perfect for beer gardens or frequently changing seating arrangements. A freestanding patio heater only needs a power outlet and can easily be put away in the evening. Important: Make sure it has an integrated tip-over protection device!
3. The specialists: Umbrella and awning spotlights
Do you have large parasols? Special parasol heaters can be attached directly to the pole or ribs. This turns the parasol into a heated tent.
Decision aid: Bright radiator or dark radiator?
It's often a question of ambiance:
- Low glare radiant heaters: They glow reddish-orange. Advantage: Maximum instant heat, even in windy conditions. Ideal for open, drafty patios. See our low glare radiant heaters .
- Dark radiators: They provide heat completely without light. Advantage: Very elegant and discreet. Perfect for sheltered areas, loggias, or upscale lounge areas where red light would be disruptive. See our dark radiators .
Buying advice: What you need to pay attention to
Comfort control
Nobody wants to climb a ladder to turn on the spotlight. Modern devices come with a remote control or app control . Even more efficient are models with a dimmer: when the evening is still mild, 50% power is sufficient – saving on electricity costs!
Weather resistance (IP protection class)
Catering equipment must be robust. Pay attention to the IP rating:
- IP X4 (splashproof): Minimum for covered outdoor areas.
- IP X5 / IP 65 (protected against water jets): Professional standard. These devices can even be left out in the rain or sprayed with water.
Expert tip: Plan for approximately 1,500 to 2,000 watts of heating power per table (4 people) to guarantee comfortable warmth even in autumn.
Are you planning a large-scale project for your outdoor dining area? Our team can assist you with planning and quantity discounts. Contact us now!