Winter is Coming: Invest in Portable Propane Heaters

Portable propane heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their versatility, which makes them ideal for homeowners, restaurants, resorts, and community living spaces. The industry is expected to grow by up to 50 million by 2030, and those who invest in these products are seeing significant returns. The iconic mushroom heaters, often found on decks, patios, and around resort pools, provide warmth and comfort that keep people outdoors even when the weather turns chilly. As the saying goes from Game of Thrones, "Winter is Coming," and now is the perfect time to consider investing in liquid propane heaters.

Business Benefits from Portable Patio Heaters

The advantages of incorporating portable patio heaters into your business are clear. Modern mushroom heaters use infrared heating technology that warms objects within their range. Unlike traditional open-flame heaters, these radiant heaters provide consistent warmth that can't be easily disrupted by a breeze. By strategically placing liquid propane heaters where people congregate, you can create inviting spaces where customers can linger even during colder evenings or seasons. Here's how portable propane heaters can be effectively deployed and the benefits they bring.

Restaurants and Outdoor Dining

According to the National Restaurant Association, 65% of restaurants offer outdoor dining options such as patios, decks, or sidewalks. This trend has been growing steadily, with over a third of restaurants reporting that outdoor seating accounts for 40% of their sales. On average, al fresco dining contributes to about 70% of a restaurant's daily revenue. When cooler autumn nights or winter temperatures set in, restaurant patio heaters help keep customers comfortable and encourage continued patronage.

Condos and Multi-Family Living

Property management companies are well-positioned to capitalize on the benefits of portable propane heaters. Mushroom heaters can be easily moved around in multi-family settings, enhancing the functionality of patios and common areas. For condos with private outdoor spaces, the sleek designs of mushroom heaters, which store the liquid propane tank in the base, fit seamlessly. In shared areas, these heaters can be rearranged as needed, making them ideal for events like birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or casual meals cooked on outdoor grills. Property managers and owners also benefit since the cost of purchasing quality propane heaters can be recouped through higher rent or HOA fees.

Resorts and Seasonal Comfort

No matter if you run an exclusive resort or a family-friendly all-inclusive, seasonal cold can impact occupancy and rates. Guests looking to unwind from their busy lives prefer environments that aren't overly affected by temperature drops. Strategically placing portable liquid propane heaters ensures that guests stay comfortable in outdoor areas. By providing radiant heat around pools, patios, and scenic spots, resorts can extend the usable hours of these amenities during cooler times. Managers could even market early-morning yoga sessions or late-evening gatherings under the cozy warmth of propane heaters.

Ski Resorts and Winter Activities

At ski resorts, where temperatures often dip below freezing, visitors embrace the winter atmosphere by wearing appropriate clothing. However, after skiing or snowboarding, guests might want to enjoy other outdoor features like ice bars, hot tubs, or heated pools. While skiers are used to dealing with cold weather, portable patio heaters make these experiences more enjoyable. Stylish mushroom heaters can be placed in chilly zones, allowing guests to relax comfortably after a dip in the pool or hot tub. Without these heaters, many resort amenities might be underutilized during colder periods.

Why Choose Liquid Propane Heaters?

Among the various fuel sources used in modern infrared patio heaters—liquid propane, natural gas, and electricity—liquid propane stands out for its adaptability. The tanks are usually housed in the base of mushroom heaters, allowing them to be moved freely once cooler weather arrives. This flexibility is unmatched by natural gas or electric heaters, which require permanent installation via gas lines or electrical outlets. Such setups may work well for semi-enclosed areas but aren't practical or cost-effective for open spaces like patios, pools, or backyards. That's why mushroom heaters remain the preferred choice for both residential and commercial use.

Top Portable Patio Heater Options

AEI Corporation provides industry-leading infrared portable propane heaters known for their impressive throw radius, appealing designs, and resilience against harsh weather. The Patio Comfort line is particularly popular due to its mushroom-style heaters. These portable propane heaters come in several finishes while maintaining their signature portability. With the liquid propane tanks stored in the base, the finishes include antique bronze, jet-silver, vintage, and the classic stainless steel often seen in expansive outdoor living spaces. The Patio Comfort mushroom heaters offer the following features:

• Generate 40,000 BTUs
• Self-contained with safety pilots
• Equipped with portable wheel kits
• Provide up to 10 hours of radiant heat per standard OPD cylinder

It's worth noting that liquid propane is considered a sustainable energy source, making Patio Comfort mushroom heaters an environmentally friendly way to enjoy outdoor spaces. Natural gas models are also available, though they require permanent installation and access to natural gas lines.

Alternative Portable Propane Heater Choices

Beyond the Patio Comfort line, AEI offers a variety of durable and high-quality outdoor heaters suitable for both residential and commercial purposes. Other notable models include the Sunglo and Sunpak lines.

Sunglo Patio Heaters

The Sunglo line uses the iconic mushroom design to distribute radiant heat evenly in a circular area. Generating 40,000 BTUs, these liquid propane heaters can cover up to 12 feet, featuring finishes like stainless steel and black matte. These heaters can also be fixed in place to prevent accidental tipping.

Sunpak Heaters

This category includes overhead heaters that can be fueled by either liquid propane or natural gas. Once securely mounted on sturdy structures, Sunpak units deliver 10 x 10 foot heat coverage from ceilings, walls, or posts. Ideal for semi-enclosed areas with limited floor space, this infrared heater line is perfect for venues like covered patios or outdoor dining areas.

Sunstar Heaters

Another overhead heater series, Sunstar models can operate on either liquid propane or natural gas. One standout feature of the Sunstar line is its durability, thanks to Marine-grade 316 stainless steel construction and wind-resistant designs. These heaters are well-suited for locations prone to severe weather conditions.

Selecting the Right Heater for Your Needs

Choosing portable propane heaters opens up opportunities to enhance outdoor spaces flexibly and cost-effectively. AEI offers commercial-grade products that are both robust and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you're looking to improve the comfort of residents, patrons, or guests, AEI has a model tailored to meet your heating requirements.