Blog: The Key To Year-Round Al Fresco Dining

The Key To Year-Round Al Fresco Dining

Keeping Guests & Customers Warm In Winter

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, a newfound appreciation for spending time outdoors has swept over the nation. The restrictions which permitted people to only meet outside became the preferred arrangement during the sweltering summer season. This inspired traditional indoor activities and events such as gyms, sports, weddings and hospitality hotspots to adapt to greener spaces.

The Post-Pandemic Demand For Outdoor Heating Solutions

The hospitality sector welcomed the request to relocate outdoors. It was an ideal scenario: customers upheld social distancing laws whilst still enjoying the company of friends and family late into the warm evenings.

Then, a problem arose when autumn chilled the air and threatened dark and bitter nights. Pubs and restaurant owners feared heavy profit loss from the result of customers deciding not to brace the biting winds, preferring instead the indoor insulation their homes provided. To ensure the comfort of the customer, the hospitality industry waged a war against winter by investing in sufficient heating solutions.

We received an influx of inquiries from businesses and event organisations preparing to combat the cold. Everyone wanted to find the most effective and efficient heating solution to transform a variety of outdoor areas into comfortable spaces for socialisation. Below, we share the secret of creating a warm and welcoming outdoor venue.

The Benefits Of Infrared Heat In Patios, Terraces & Gardens

Outdoor dining has always been a staple during summer but fails to attract during colder seasons. Infrared heaters are not only suitable outdoor heating solutions, but offer fantastic energy-efficiency; economical and eco-friendly benefits. We supply a wide range of infrared heaters from trusted brands such as Sealey, Herschel, SIP, Tansun and more. 

With zero emissions, zero noise, zero maintenance, there's zero worries. The beauty of infrared heating is that only surfaces and objects are targeted, meaning no energy is wasted on warming the air – this makes heat go further and last longer. These energy-efficient devices deliver heat as natural as the sun, creating the sensation of sitting in the sunshine, even in the midst of winter.

Models such as the sleek and elegantly modern Bromic Platinum Smart-Heat 2.3kW - 3.4kW and ETHERMA SOLAMAGIC S2 2.5kW are complete with bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatibility, featuring the latest infrared technology and acheiving maximum heat output in just minutes. Or, for a lower-price alternative, the Tansun Rio Grande Double 3kW and Herschel California 2000 2kW are excellent choices for efficient, comfortable and healthy outdoor heating. Designed with weather-resistant materials and built to endure, our catalogue of infrared heaters provide a lasting heating solution for many winters.

For tightly confined outdoor spaces, such as small bar terraces where installing a wall-mounted heater may be undesired, the Mensa Heating Vireoo Pro Commercial Infrared Table Heater range offers an perfect alternative. Available for round or square tables, this ingenious infrared heater doubles-up as a drinks table, saving space and keeping customers warm and comfortable as they enjoy their beverage.

Combat The Cold In Gazebos, Marquees & Tents

For enclosed, poorly ventilated and insulated temporary structures, we recommend the Master range of portable indirect-fired heaters. These models create warm, dry air that circulates around the area. As these heaters are indirect (meaning there is no contact between the flame and air) they are the safest solution for confined, busy spaces. Conveniently, Master models are compatible with remote room thermostats, so event and festival organisers have constant access to temperature control.

We know that in the planning of events, such as weddings and significant celebrations, a lot of time, thought and expense is invested into the aesthetics and design of the venue. The Master range of resilient, weatherproof units can operate from outside the heated space, with flexible ducting used to direct heat inside the space. So, you can enjoy warm air blown into your venue without worrying about the appearance or noise of the heater.

Check out our full collection of Marquee, Gazebo and Patio Heaters to find the perfect heating solution for your outdoor space.