— By Jaime Tuinstra —
How infrared heat can help fill your restaurant and breweries’ seats.
As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, service or entertainment establishments that utilize outdoor seating areas face a challenge: How to keep guests comfortable and extend the outdoor dining season.
Providing comfortable al fresco dining or social options, even when temperatures drop, can significantly boost revenue and customer satisfaction. Thus, in lieu of hoodies or jackets, when there’s a nip in the air, addressing comfort proactively is essential for customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Why Choose Infrared Heaters?
When it comes to spot heating an outdoor space, there is no shortage of options. From propane to natural gas, electric, wood-burning units and many more, a solution exists to fit your needs. However, in pursuit of a quick, efficient and affordable option, infrared heaters may offer the best bang for the buck.
Infrared heat is a form of electromagnetic radiation. As infrared waves travel through the air, heat energy is released when they touch a surface — regardless of the surrounding air temperature. This heat energy excites the molecules in the object it meets, causing it to vibrate, gain energy and, ultimately, heat up. The infrared heating process is similar to the warmth we feel from the sun, which emits rays that directly warm specific objects upon contact.
Because it’s absorbed rather than disseminated, infrared heat is an efficient and reliable source of warmth. Unlike its forced-air counterparts, it’s largely immune to wind and ambient temperature changes. Additionally, infrared heat can be produced instantaneously, operates quietly since it doesn’t utilize fans or motors, and doesn’t rely on another medium (such as circulated air or flowing water) to deliver warmth.
Gas vs. Electric
Infrared heaters come in electric and gas models. Both are versatile solutions with unique advantages and ideal use cases. Let’s take a closer look at each model’s pros and cons and some of the more common applications for each.
Gas Infrared Heaters
Gas infrared heaters, fueled by either natural gas or propane, are a popular choice for large outdoor seating areas. They are typically mounted on walls or ceilings, providing output over a wide area. Gas heaters are typically more powerful than their electric counterparts, producing a larger volume of heat. They also operate at lower costs and require minimal maintenance. On the flip side, gas heaters require a pipeline or infrastructure, and if a gas line (or propane source) is not present, one will need to be installed. Additionally, gas heaters require adequate ventilation, ensuring carbon monoxide does not build up to dangerous levels, making them impractical for closed settings that lack proper ventilation.
Gas infrared heaters are best suited for open patios, beer gardens or other large spaces where high heat output is needed. These units should be considered permanent fixtures, as they can be somewhat difficult to relocate.
If an infrared gas solution is specified, a facility manager should consider advanced options, such as 16-gauge aluminized steel, which is corrosion-resistant; polished aluminum reflectors, which direct radiant heat specifically to a target area; 180-degree rotating gas valves that provide access on either side of the burner box; sealed burner compartments that allow for manifold pressure adjustments during operation; or permanently lubricated combustion blower motors.
Electric Infrared Heaters
Electric infrared heaters are versatile options that come in a variety of styles, including wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted and portable options. Without open flames, gas lines or combustion, electric infrared heaters add another level of safety to your heating system. Zero combustion of gas also allows these units to operate unvented, saving the extra cost and hassle of installing vents in your building. Additionally, electric heaters can often be relocated quickly and easily, requiring only a plug-in power source.
On the contrary, electric heaters generally produce less heat than gas models, making them a better fit for smaller or semi-enclosed outdoor seating areas. Additionally, electric units tend to be more expensive than their gas counterparts, with the price largely dependent on local electricity rates. If higher voltage outlets are required or if these units are run in series, the operational price increases even further. Finally, if there’s a power outage, electric heaters will be inaccessible, unless the establishment utilizes a generator, battery or alternate backup power source.
If electric infrared units are identified as a fit for a facility, managers may consider advanced options, such as units that come in single-, double- or triple-element configurations; those that utilize high-intensity, low-light-output Tungsten bulbs, which supply instantaneous, directional heat; powder-coated extruded aluminum bodies that resist corrosion; and more.
Which Infrared Heater Is Right for Your Space?
Extending the use of your outdoor seating area can significantly boost your restaurant or brewery’s revenue during cooler months. Infrared heaters, whether gas or electric, offer an efficient and effective solution to keep guests warm and comfortable. In summary, here are four considerations to help ensure you’re selecting the right infrared fuel source for your facility.
1. Installation: Depending on the heater type, installation can vary from simple plug-in electric models to more complex gas units requiring professional installation and venting. Make sure you understand the installation requirements beforehand to avoid unexpected costs or complications.
2. Cost Analysis: Beyond the initial purchase price, consider long term operating costs. Gas heaters may have a lower operational cost compared to electric units, but this depends on local fuel prices and the inclusion of renewable power sources. Calculate potential savings over time and factor this into your decision.
3. Zoning and Permits: Check local regulations and permitting requirements for installing outdoor heaters. Some areas may have restrictions, especially for gas heaters. Ensure compliance to avoid fines or having to remove the heater after installation.
4. Safety Features: Prioritize heaters with safety features, like automatic shut-off, tip-over protection and cool-to-touch exteriors, especially in high-traffic areas. These features reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe environment for guests and staff.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best heater to suit your needs and create a welcoming environment that draws customers in, even when the temperatures drop. With the right infrared heating solution, your patio or beer garden can become a comfortable, year-round destination for diners and drinkers alike.
— Jamie Tuinstra is a regional sales manager at Modine Manufacturing. He has been in the heating and cooling industry for 25 years and with Modine for 16. Building on more than 100 years of excellence in thermal management, Modine provides systems and solutions that improve air quality and conserve natural resources. Modine is a global company headquartered in Racine, Wis., with operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit www.modinehvac.com.