What Do I Need to Know Before Installing Infrared Heating?

Infrared heating has quickly become one of the most efficient, comfortable, and design-flexible heating options for both residential and commercial spaces. Whether you’re outfitting an outdoor dining patio, upgrading a warehouse or workshop, or adding dependable heat to your garage, infrared heaters offer a powerful alternative to traditional forced-air heating systems. Unlike conventional heaters that warm the air, and lose massive amounts of heat to drafts, cold winds, or high ceilingsl, infarred systems heat objects, surfaces, and people directly. This creates a faster, more consistent, and more energy-efficient heating experience in almost any environment.

But before installing an infrared heater, you’ll want to understand the basics, the nuances, and the requirements that ensure optimal performance and safety. From selecting the right heater, to understanding mounting rules, to planning ventilation, power supply, and local code compliance, there are several important considerations to take into account. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, clearly, thoroughly, and with the insights you need to install an infrared heating system the right way on the first try.

What You Must Know Before Installing Infrared Heating for Safe & Efficient Comfort

Before you install infrared heaters, you need a clear understanding of how they function. Infrared heat operates differently from forced-air or conventional gas heating systems, and knowing these differences helps you make informed installation decisions.

Infrared Heats Objects, Not the Air

Traditional heaters warm the air around them. This heated air rises (a process known as convection), circulates, and eventually dissipates, especially outdoors or in large open spaces. Infrared heaters work on a completely different principle: they emit radiant energy that travels through the air and warms the surfaces it hits, floors, tables, walls, equipment, and people. This is similar to how the sun warms your skin even on a cold day.

Why This Matters for Installation

• The heater’s line of sight determines performance.

• Placement must prioritize coverage of occupied areas.

• Angle and height affect how evenly the heat spreads.

• Clearance from obstacles (fans, shelves, beams) ensures warmth isn’t blocked.

Understanding the physics behind infrared heat helps you position the heater where it can do its job most effectively.

Choosing the Type of Heater for Your Space

Not all infrared heaters are created equal. Before installing one, you need to determine the type of heater best suited for your environment. This depends on several key factors: location, temperature needs, ceiling height, exposure to wind, and whether the space is residential, commercial, or industrial.

Outdoor Patio Heaters

Outdoor patio infrared heaters are designed for:

• Restaurants

• Residential decks and patios

• Rooftops

• Outdoor entertainment areas

They must withstand weather exposure and compensate for wind and fluctuating temperatures. Typically mounted overhead, they should be installed where radiant energy can reach guests directly without being obstructed.

Garage Heaters

For enclosed or partially enclosed garages, infrared heaters are ideal because:

• They eliminate draft-related heat loss

• They heat tools, vehicles, and flooring

• They warm people directly, even with open garage doors

Garages often have intermediate heating needs, more demanding than patios but not as extreme as industrial environments.

Industrial or Commercial Infrared Heaters

These are built for:

• Warehouses

• Loading bays

• Agricultural barns

• Manufacturing floors

• Large commercial facilities

These spaces often have high ceilings or frequent air movement. Industrial-grade infrared systems provide strong, focused radiant output suitable for large zones.

Electric vs. Gas Infrared Heaters

Before installation, decide which fuel type is appropriate.

Electric heaters are ideal when:

• No gas line is available

• Venting is limited

• Mounting is near sensitive ceilings or materials

Gas heaters (natural gas or propane) are preferred when:

• Heating large outdoor or semi-outdoor spaces

• Higher heat output is needed

• Energy costs must be optimized

Electric models offer simplicity; gas models offer power and cost savings long-term.

Understanding Power & Fuel Requirements

One of the most important factors to consider before installation is ensuring your heater has the necessary power supply or fuel source.

Gas Infrared Heaters

Key requirements:

• Adequate BTU capacity

• Existing gas line (NG or LP)

• Proper gas pressure levels

• Approved gas shutoff valve

• Regulated fuel supply

For propane, you must consider:

• Tank size

• Regulator placement

• Exterior access for refilling

Electric Infrared Heaters

Requirements include:

• Dedicated circuit

• Correct amperage

• Proper voltage (120V, 208V, 240V, 277V depending on model)

• Professional wiring if hardwired

Never attempt to run electric infrared heaters off extension cords or shared overloaded circuits.

Ventilation & Airflow Considerations

Infrared heaters are safer than conventional gas heaters because they operate without open flames or exposed glowing elements. However, some models still require adequate ventilation, especially gas-fired industrial variants.

When Ventilation Is Needed

Ventilation may be required if:

• The heater is being installed indoors and uses gas

• The unit produces combustion byproducts

• Local regulations require airflow for enclosed spaces

Outdoor and patio gas infrared heaters generally do not require additional ventilation, but they must be installed in spaces with natural airflow.

Airflow Around the Heater

Adequate airflow ensures:

• The heater does not overheat

• Combustion air (for gas models) is freely available

• Heat dispersion is even

Installers should avoid placing heaters in enclosed alcoves or behind architectural obstructions unless the heater is specifically designed for those conditions.

Mounting Height & Distance Guidelines

Proper mounting height and clearance distances are essential for performance, safety, and compliance.

Why Mounting Height Matters

Mount them too low and you risk:

• Hot spots

• Discomfort

• Safety issues

Mount them too high and you risk:

• Weak heat coverage

• Inefficient performance

General Mounting Principles

(Every manufacturer’s requirements must be followed, but these guidelines apply broadly.)

• Patio heaters: usually 8–10 feet

• Garage heaters: 7–12 feet

• Industrial heaters: 10–30 feet depending on model

• Always maintain a clear line of sight from heater to target area

• Clearance from combustibles: often 4–36 inches depending on model

Angled vs. Horizontal Mounting

• Horizontal mounting offers maximum broad coverage

• Angled mounting targets specific zones more intensely

• Angling can improve heat distribution in long, narrow areas

Clearance & Safety Requirements

Safety clearances are non-negotiable. Infrared heaters generate high radiant temperatures at the source, even though the warmth they emit feels soft and comfortable.

Typical Clearance Requirements

You must consider distance from:

• Ceilings

• Beams

• Fans

• Sprinkler heads

• Fabric awnings

• Wall coverings

• Furniture

• People’s heads when seated or standing

Fire Safety Benefits

Infrared heaters are inherently safer than open-flame heaters because:

• No exposed fire

• No glowing red elements

• Minimal fire hazards

• Controlled modulating heat output

Installers must still follow:

• Local building codes

• Manufacturer’s installation manual

• Ceiling type considerations (drywall, wood, metal, drop ceilings)

Weather Exposure & Environmental Factors

For outdoor installations, weather and seasonal patterns play a significant role in heater effectiveness.

Wind

Infrared heat itself isn’t “blown away,” but wind cools surfaces faster. To counter this:

• Position heaters where wind exposure is lowest

• Use multiple heaters to create overlapping heat zones

• Choose higher BTU models for windy climates

Rain & Snow

Gas patio heaters must be:

• Outdoor-rated

• Mounted under protected structures when possible

Electric infrared heaters may have IP ratings indicating resistance to:

• Moisture

• Dust

• Salt air

Humidity & Corrosion

Coastal environments require corrosion-resistant materials such as:

• Stainless steel

• Marine-grade finishes

If the heater is gas-powered, salt-heavy air can affect burner durability.

Coverage Area & Heat Zone Planning

One of the most important steps before installation is determining how many heaters you need and where they should go.

Factors That Influence Coverage

• Square footage of space

• Ceiling height

• Wind exposure

• Whether the space is enclosed or open

• Number of occupants

• Desired temperature rise

• Furniture layout

Zoning

Creating multiple heat zones is often ideal:

• Dining spaces

• Workstations

• Entryways

• High-traffic zones

• Perimeters

Installing more low-output heaters often creates better comfort than fewer high-output heaters.

Building Codes, Permits, & Local Regulations

Before installation, always check:

• Local building codes

• Gas installation requirements

• Electrical codes

• Venting rules

• Structural mounting requirements

• ADA compliance in businesses

Permit Considerations

You may need permits for:

• Natural gas extensions

• Hardwired electric installations

• Commercial installations

• Rooftop mounting

Failing to obtain proper permits can result in expensive fines or forced removal of the heater.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

While electric infrared heaters are sometimes DIY-friendly, most installations, especially gas heaters, should be handled professionally.

Benefits of Professional Installation

• Assurance of proper gas pressure

• Correct mounting height

• Precision angling

• Adherence to clearances

• Avoiding hazardous mistakes

• Proper wiring or circuit installation

For commercial spaces, professional installation is not optional.

Maintenance Requirements to Understand Before Installation

Infrared heaters require minimal maintenance, but the small tasks they do require should be understood beforehand.

Gas Heaters

• Annual burner inspection

• Cleaning dust, debris, soot

• Checking gas pressure

• Inspecting mounting hardware

Electric Heaters

• Cleaning lenses or emitter surfaces

• Checking electrical connections

• Dust removal

Outdoor Installations

Heaters last longer when protected from:

• Excessive moisture

• Salt air

• Debris accumulation

Routine maintenance ensures long-term performance.

Aesthetics, Design, & Integration Into Your Space

Infrared heaters offer significant design flexibility, one of the reasons restaurants and hospitality venues love them.

Appearance Considerations

• Slim, low-profile designs

• Ability to integrate into ceilings

• Color-matched brackets

• Hidden gas lines or wiring

Mounting Options

Infrared heaters can be mounted:

• On ceilings

• On walls

• On overhead beams

• On pergola structures
  

Choose an installation that complements rather than competes with your design.

Installation Costs to Budget For

Before installing infrared heating, it’s important to understand the costs involved:

Typical Expenses Include:

• Heater purchase price

• Mounting brackets

• Gas line installation

• Electrical work

• Labor for mounting

• Permits (if required)

• Optional accessories (controllers, timers, thermostats)

Long-Term Value

Infrared heaters often pay for themselves due to:

• Lower operational costs

• Reduced heat loss

• Increased outdoor seating capacity

• Longer patio seasons

• Lower maintenance

Final Checklist Before Installing Infrared Heating

Before installation day arrives, double-check the following:

Technical Checklist

• Heater type selected (patio, garage, industrial, electric)

• Required BTU or wattage determined

• Gas line or electrical infrastructure confirmed

• Mounting height and clearances measured

Environmental Checklist

• Wind exposure evaluated

• Coverage zones planned

• Weather protection considered

Compliance Checklist

• Local codes reviewed

• Permits secured

• Professional installer booked

Design Checklist

• Aesthetic placement determined

• Brackets chosen

• Wiring or gas lines concealed

Final Thoughts

Installing infrared heating is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to a patio, garage, warehouse, or commercial space. By heating people and surfaces directly rather than heating air, infrared heaters create unmatched comfort and energy efficiency. But proper installation is the key to unlocking the full potential of these systems.

When you understand the mounting requirements, power considerations, placement strategies, safety clearances, and environmental factors, you ensure your system performs at its highest level from day one. Whether you're designing an outdoor dining area, upgrading your home garage, or improving an industrial workspace, infrared heaters deliver dependable, even warmth that transforms how people experience your space.