Sunglo Heaters - 60 Years Of Patio Heater Excellence

Conceived and crafted by Edin J. Cowan in 1961, Sunglo patio heaters are the original patio heater. These efficient, practical, and stylish outdoor heaters quickly gained popularity among hotels, restaurants, and country clubs along the California coastline, where they were initially introduced. Within the first six years of their creation, the Sunglo became a standard feature in hospitality venues from Los Angeles to Crescent City, making the name synonymous with the product itself. Even today, they remain the most iconic heaters of their kind, featuring an elegant and ornate base, a convenient circular shelf around the middle, and the appealing visible glow of the heating element beneath the canopy. Of course, their primary appeal lies in the warmth they provide.

Over the decades, many manufacturers have attempted to replicate the classic Sunglo design. However, Sunglo continues to hold its ground as the original and leading producer of these inimitable heaters, with unmatched experience in manufacturing both commercial and residential infrared heaters.

As the colder months approach, many homeowners, property managers, and business owners are looking for ways to keep enjoying their outdoor spaces. Sunglo radiant patio heaters might just be the perfect answer, offering both style and functionality. Let's explore these well-designed and aesthetically pleasing products in greater detail.

The Iconic Portable Patio Heater by Sunglo

Since these classic patio heaters debuted in 1967, the Sunglo company has worked tirelessly to establish itself as the most recognizable and desirable brand in the patio heater industry. Sunglo heaters have become so iconic that their brand name is often associated directly with the product itself, much like how "Cuisinart" is linked to blenders.

They represent the epitome of portable patio heaters due to their pioneering status. Sunglo heaters are constructed with the highest quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Historically, they have been a staple in resorts, restaurants, and hotels for over 50 years. Initially, these heaters were exclusive to the outdoor areas of high-end dining establishments and luxury hotels. Nowadays, they can be found in various settings, including diners, apartment complexes, private homes, and anywhere else that seeks to enhance its outdoor ambiance with warmth. At AEI, we are proud to offer this prestigious and popular line of outdoor heaters. Our selection includes both natural gas and propane options, with the heaters being round or mushroom-shaped—styles that are both versatile and practical.

Powered by Natural Gas or Liquid Propane

Similar to most infrared heaters, Sunglo heaters operate on either natural gas or liquid propane. Over time, these two fuel sources have proven to be efficient, affordable, reliable, and relatively safe to use. Of course, proper safety measures are essential, and Sunglo has put significant effort into ensuring their products are secure and cost-effective. Below are some key points regarding fueling and operating these devices.

Fuel & Mounting Systems

Sunglo heaters can be fueled by either natural gas or propane. Natural gas-powered Sunglo heaters can be suspended or mounted on a pole. Pole-mounted heaters can run on either natural gas or propane, whereas suspended heaters are exclusively designed for natural gas. To simplify things, here’s a quick summary:

Fuel Types

• Suspended Heater: Natural Gas Only
• Pole-Mounted Heater: Natural Gas or Propane

Portability

• Propane Heaters: Portable
• Natural Gas Heaters: Fixed Position

Fuel Replenishment

• Propane Heaters: Require tank replacement
• Natural Gas Heaters: Connected to in-ground NG line

Natural Gas Sunglo Heaters

Natural gas-powered Sunglo heaters are mounted on a pole or suspended overhead. These heaters must be connected to your property’s natural gas line, meaning the fuel is piped directly into the heater. With a natural gas heater, you’ll never need to replace the fuel tank.

Fueling these heaters is incredibly convenient since they are directly connected to a natural gas line supplied by your local utility company. While this offers the advantage of ease of use, it comes with the disadvantage of being non-portable. Therefore, it’s advisable to get fitted, weather-resistant covers for each pole-mounted unit. Their modular design and superior materials make them easy to maintain, and covering them during bad weather will help prolong their lifespan.

Propane Sunglo Heaters

Propane-powered Sunglo heaters are mounted on a pole with the circular/mushroom-shaped heating element on top and a convenient storage space for a propane tank in the base of the unit. The fuel tanks for propane-powered heaters need to be swapped out once they are depleted, but they offer the significant benefit of portability. You can move these heaters wherever you need heat, and store them away when not in use. They can also be covered to protect them from the elements with fitted, weather-resistant covers.

Although exchanging a propane fuel tank may seem daunting at first, it’s actually quite simple and anyone can learn to safely swap out a propane fuel tank. The main advantage of a propane-powered heater is its portability, which allows you to store it when not in use, extending its life and reducing maintenance needs. Additionally, these heaters can be covered with fitted, weather-resistant covers for protection against the elements.

Both fuel types are economical, widely available, and burn cleanly.

Selecting the Best Radiant Patio Heaters

Some spaces consistently require heating, while others may only need warmth occasionally. For this reason, many homeowners and hospitality businesses choose a mix of propane-powered and natural gas-powered heaters.

Install natural gas lines and set up NG-powered radiant patio heaters in areas where guests and other users are likely to need them. When crowds grow larger or activities spread further from the building, propane-powered heaters can be wheeled into position to meet those needs.

Natural gas units are ideal for dependable, fixed-position heating, while propane heaters are the perfect solution for unexpected heating requirements, outdoor events, and filling in gaps as needed.

Sunglo Patio Heaters: Over Half a Century of Style and Warmth

This renowned heater manufacturer boasts the longest history of excellence in the industry. Sunglo heaters are among the finest outdoor heaters available and are instantly recognizable. At AEI Corporation, we’re proud to collaborate with Sunglo to bring you the best in infrared heating technology.