Science Proves Patio Heaters Provide Health & Wellness Benefits to Guests at Resorts, Spas, Eateries

Most people tend to prefer al fresco dining because it just feels great. Enjoying a delicious meal at an open-air restaurant or resort patio isn't just pleasurable—it also offers scientifically proven health benefits. This preference stems from how being outdoors positively impacts our biology. However, the chill of the evening and colder weather months often force us back indoors, cutting short these enjoyable experiences.

Understanding the advantages of extending dining hours and seasons with mushroom heaters allows businesses like resorts, spas, and restaurants to make informed decisions about investing in patio heaters.

Health Benefits of Outdoor Dining, According to Science

A University of Anglia study published in Science Daily found that spending more time outdoors provides measurable health benefits. Analyzing data from 290 million people, UK researchers concluded that individuals exposed to higher levels of green spaces experienced improved overall health and wellness.

“Time spent in nature definitely makes us feel healthier, but until now, the long-term effects on wellbeing weren’t fully understood,” said Caoimhe Twohig-Bennett, the lead author from UEA’s Norwich Medical School. “Our analysis of over 140 studies involving more than 290 million people shows that exposure to natural green spaces is linked to various significant health benefits.”

In many ways, enjoying well-prepared meals in outdoor settings mirrors the study’s findings. This is largely because working adults typically spend around 90% of their time indoors. As temperatures drop in the evenings and throughout the colder months, the refreshing outdoor experience diminishes significantly.

This research seems to advocate for major lifestyle shifts, such as regularly going on nature hikes or practicing Japanese forest bathing. Most families lack the flexibility to change their routines after working an average 9-to-5 job, followed by a commute and household duties. Even so, an increasing number of families still manage to use patio heaters to extend their outdoor time. For restaurant owners looking to attract evening patrons, placing natural gas heaters around al fresco seating areas proves effective.

Why Eating Outdoors More Often Makes Sense

Consider the restaurant experience of dining outside under the warmth of a patio heater. This usually happens after a long workweek or on nights when people don’t feel like cooking. Earning a livelihood can be exhausting, and the colder weather months bring about feelings of cabin fever.

The same applies to homeowners who retreat to their indoor kitchens and climate-controlled spaces. They'd rather spend weekends at a nature-inspired spa or resort with a patio heater setup. These are some of the top reasons people prefer eating outdoors near those mushroom heaters.

• Fresh Air: The crisp night air refreshes the senses and often enhances the aroma and flavor of food. Night skies filled with stars and moonlight create a rich ambiance. On the other hand, indoor dining involves artificial lighting, recycled air, and distractions.
• Nature Soothes: Patios offer access to autumn leaves, early spring blooms, and the greenery deemed beneficial to our health and wellness. Restaurant owners frequently decorate outdoor dining areas with large potted plants, and some include arbors covered in vines. While this may not equal full nature immersion, greenery still helps.
• Social Benefits: Families take full advantage of decks and patios during warmer months. Gathering to enjoy a delicious grilled meal with friends strengthens social bonds. Planning events like birthday parties and graduations adds to the interpersonal benefits. The same holds true for outdoor seating at eateries and resorts—they’re places to connect with friends over late-night snacks and drinks. Our outdoor eating and drinking experiences are rich in social interaction.
• Restful Sleep: Studies show that fresh air promotes a full, restful night's sleep. Fresh air helps cool core body temperatures, making people feel more relaxed and sleepy. After a stressful day, having the final meal outdoors aids in winding down and achieving that deep REM sleep we need.

Connecting to fuel lines and installing either natural gas heaters or movable propane patio heater units solves the issue of reduced outdoor time and limited seasonal use of spaces. However, to successfully transition to extended al fresco seating, choosing a leading industry model is crucial.

Top Patio Heater Models for Outdoor Dining Areas

Mushroom heaters remain the most recognizable and widely used type of patio heater. Restaurants, spas, and resorts have long favored this design due to its aesthetic appeal and ability to keep guests comfortable.

The Patio Comfort model remains a popular choice for commercial use. With finishes including stainless steel, antique bronze, jet silver, and vintage options, Patio Comfort mushroom heaters produce 40,000 BTUs, distributing infrared heat from a portable propane tank housed in the base. A single 5-gallon tank provides up to 10 hours of guest comfort.

The advantage of selecting a propane patio heater lies in its space flexibility. When cooler temperatures arrive, the units can be moved to create a warming zone around different seating arrangements. This proves particularly useful for resorts, spas, and restaurants experiencing fluctuating guest numbers.

For decision-makers preferring a fixed patio heater system, there are Patio Comfort models that can be anchored and fueled by natural gas. The natural gas heaters come with stainless steel and antique bronze finishes to complement outdoor spaces. Embedding a sturdy Patio Comfort post into concrete or fixed infrastructure is another option.

It’s important to remember that natural gas heaters must be securely fastened for safety, and a fuel line needs to be installed by a certified professional. Portable mushroom heaters with a tank in the base can also be secured at their base to prevent accidental tipping and damage. However, the infrared technology used in the Patio Comfort line doesn’t expose people to an open flame.

The extensive benefits of mushroom heaters are grounded in science. Business leaders have a unique opportunity to attract customers while improving their health and wellness.