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Infrared Patio Heater: All You Need to Know
Infrared heating is the technology behind modern patio heaters. But what exactly is infrared? How does it work? And why is it so suitable for outdoor use? In this article, we explain everything about infrared patio heaters—without technical jargon.
What is infrared heating?
Infrared is a form of electromagnetic radiation—the same kind of warmth you feel from the sun. Like sunlight, infrared radiation directly heats the objects and people it reaches, without first warming the air.
This is precisely why infrared works so well as patio heating. Outdoors, it's pointless to heat the air—it just blows away. An infrared patio heater directs heat directly at you, your guests, and the furniture. The result: you feel the warmth immediately, even with a cool breeze.
How does an infrared patio heater work?
An infrared patio heater contains a heating element that converts electricity into infrared radiation. Behind this element is a reflector that focuses the radiation in one direction—towards your patio.
The process is simple:
- You switch on the heater (via switch, remote control, or app)
- The heating element quickly warms up
- Infrared radiation is emitted towards the patio
- People and objects in range absorb the heat
- You feel it immediately—no warm-up time needed
The warmth feels similar to standing in the sun: pleasant, direct, and targeted.
Types of infrared: which technology should you choose?
Not all infrared heating elements are the same. The two most common technologies for patio heaters are:
Carbon Fiber
Carbon Fiber heating elements are made from carbon fibers. They produce a visible, warm orange glow while emitting heat.
Features:
- Warm, atmospheric glow (orange light)
- Fast warm-up time
- Long lifespan (up to 10,000+ operating hours)
- Energy efficient
- Popular in hospitality for its ambiance
Ideal for: people who want to combine warmth and atmosphere, hospitality patios, cozy evenings
Golden Shadow (Low Glare)
Golden Shadow is a premium technology that produces hardly any visible light. The heat is as effective as Carbon Fiber, but without the orange glow, making the heater much more discreet.
Features:
- Minimal light emission (low glare)
- As powerful as Carbon Fiber
- Luxurious, sleek appearance
- Suits minimalist designs
- Calmer look on the patio
Ideal for: high-end verandas, if you want to feel the heat but not see the heater, patios adjacent to bedrooms
Comparison: Carbon Fiber vs. Golden Shadow
| Feature | Carbon Fiber | Golden Shadow |
|---|---|---|
| Light emission | Warm orange glow | Hardly visible |
| Heating capacity | Excellent | Excellent |
| Ambiance | High (cozy light) | Subtle (warmth without light) |
| Lifespan | 10,000+ hours | 10,000+ hours |
| Design | Modern | Minimalist |
| Price range | €€ | €€–€€€ |
Tip: there is no "better" choice—it purely depends on your preference. Do you want ambiance? Choose Carbon Fiber. Do you want discreet warmth? Choose Golden Shadow.
Why is infrared better than convection outdoors?
Traditional heaters (convection) work by warming the air. That's fine indoors, but outdoors it's pointless. Warm air rises and blows away. You're literally heating for the birds.
Infrared works fundamentally differently:
- No air heating: the radiation directly heats people and objects
- Wind resistant: the heat is not blown away
- Energy efficient: no energy loss from heating air
- Instant effect: no warm-up time, immediate warmth upon switching on
- No dry air: infrared does not dry out the air
Infrared patio heater under a canopy
The ideal place for an infrared patio heater is under a canopy or in a veranda. The canopy retains the heat radiation better and protects the heater from rain.
Tips for placement under a canopy:
- Mount the heater at a height of 2.20 – 2.50 meters
- Direct the heater towards the seating area, not towards the open side
- For canopies up to 12 m², choose a 2500W model
- For larger canopies: use multiple heaters for even warmth
- Maintain a minimum distance of 60 cm to the ceiling
Frequently asked questions about infrared patio heaters
Is infrared radiation safe?
Yes, completely. Infrared radiation is the same warmth you feel from the sun. It contains no UV radiation and is completely safe for people, children, and pets.
How much power does an infrared patio heater consume?
A 2500W infrared heater consumes 2.5 kWh per hour at full power. At an electricity price of €0.30/kWh, that's €0.75 per hour. With a smart heater on a lower setting, this can be significantly less.
How long does an infrared heating element last?
Good Carbon Fiber and Golden Shadow elements last 8,000 to 10,000+ operating hours. With an average use of 4 hours per day during the season (6 months), that's more than 6 years.
Can I also use an infrared patio heater indoors?
Technically, yes, but patio heaters are designed for outdoor use. They are more powerful than needed for indoor spaces. For indoors, there are special infrared panels that are more suitable.
What is the difference between shortwave and longwave infrared?
Patio heaters primarily use shortwave infrared. This type penetrates deeper and heats more effectively at a distance. Longwave infrared is more commonly used in panels for indoor heating.
Conclusion
An infrared patio heater is the smartest choice for outdoor heating. The technology heats directly—no energy loss to air that just blows away. Choose Carbon Fiber for ambiance with a warm glow, or Golden Shadow for discreet warmth without visible light.
With a wattage of 2500W, you can comfortably cover most canopies, and with smart features, you can easily control the heater via your phone or remote control.
Curious which infrared patio heater suits your situation? Check our tailored advice or contact us for personal assistance.
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