Where to Mount Your Patio Heater for Maximum Efficiency: A Commercial Buyer's Guide
Whether you're outfitting a restaurant patio, resort cabana, or event space, one of the most overlooked aspects of patio heater performance is placement. Even the most powerful commercial-grade heater will underperform if it's mounted in the wrong spot. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about where to place your gas or electric patio heater for maximum warmth, safety, and efficiency.
Know Your Heater Type First
Before we talk about mounting, it’s important to know what kind of heater you're working with:
Wall-mounted electric heaters: Great for semi-enclosed spaces or under awnings.
Ceiling-mounted electric heaters: Ideal for overhead heating in covered patios or gazebos.
Freestanding gas heaters: Best for open-air environments or movable layouts.
Wall-mounted gas heaters: Typically fixed in open, ventilated areas.
Each style has its own mounting needs and clearance requirements, so always check the manufacturer's specifications.
Ideal Mounting Heights by Heater Type
Mounting height affects both coverage area and heat intensity. Too high, and your guests won’t feel the warmth. Too low, and you could create a safety hazard.
Here are general guidelines:
Wall or ceiling-mounted electric heaters: 6.5 to 10 feet off the ground
Wall-mounted gas heaters: 7 to 10 feet high
Freestanding gas heaters: No mounting needed but ensure placement allows at least 2-3 feet around the top and sides
Tip: For ceiling-mounted models, angle the heater slightly downward to project heat toward seating areas.
Placement Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
Mount heaters above seating areas, not just near them
Angle heaters toward guests for targeted warmth
Install on wind-sheltered walls if outdoors
Allow for clearance from flammable materials
DON’T:
Mount too high or heat will dissipate before it reaches guests
Place near open windows or fans — this can redirect or waste heat
Cluster too many heaters close together — overlap is good, but not overcrowding
Coverage Area: How Many Heaters Do You Need?
It’s not just about where to mount one heater — but how many you’ll need. Most commercial patio heaters (electric or gas) have a heating radius of 5 to 10 feet depending on the BTU or watt output.
General rule of thumb:
Small patio (under 300 sq ft): 1-2 heaters
Medium patio (300–700 sq ft): 2–4 heaters
Large outdoor dining area (700+ sq ft): 4+ heaters or a mix of types
Safety Clearances
Always follow manufacturer guidelines, but standard clearances are:
At least 2 feet of space above the heater (more for gas units)
3 feet on all sides for proper airflow
Avoid mounting near sprinklers, fire alarms, or low-hanging décor
Additional Tips for Commercial Spaces
Use zones: Divide large spaces into zones and install heaters accordingly.
Consider ceiling material: Wood vs metal may affect mounting brackets.
Account for airflow: HVAC, open doors, or coastal breezes can push heat away.
Look for tilt and swivel mounts for directional flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Strategic placement is what separates an underwhelming heater from an exceptional one. Whether you’re warming a small hotel courtyard or a large resort dining deck, mounting your heaters correctly can make all the difference in comfort and efficiency.
Need help selecting or placing your heaters? At Raytech Store, we offer expert support and commercial-rated products to make your install seamless and safe. Explore our collection of patio heaters or get in touch with our team today.