Home / Blog / Installing Patio Heaters fo...

Installing Patio Heaters for Retirement Communities Increases Resident Happiness

Installing Patio Heaters for Retirement Communities Increases Resident Happiness

When you manage a retirement community, resident comfort and quality of life are top priorities. One easy and effective way to enhance your property is by adding patio heaters to outdoor spaces. Whether it’s a shared courtyard, or a common recreation area, outdoor heating helps residents enjoy these spaces year-round.

Why Add Patio Heaters to Your Retirement Community?

Seniors enjoy outdoor activities just like anyone else. A warm, inviting patio encourages them to:

  • Enjoy a morning cup of coffee: Many residents cherish the quiet of early mornings. A heated patio allows them to sip coffee comfortably even on cooler days.
  • Barbecue on their patios: Cooking outdoors can be a fun and social activity. With patio heaters, residents can host cookouts and enjoy grilled meals all year long.
  • Dine with friends: Sharing meals outdoors fosters community and connection. Heated patios extend dining options beyond the dining hall.
  • Read a good book: A cozy, heated outdoor space is perfect for reading and relaxation.
  • Watch the stars: Stargazing can be a peaceful, enjoyable pastime. Heaters make it pleasant even when the night air is chilly.
  • Play games like shuffleboard or bocce ball: Outdoor games are great for exercise and fun. Patio heaters keep play areas warm and inviting.
  • Host visits with children and grandchildren: Comfortable outdoor spaces encourage family visits, providing memorable moments for residents and their loved ones.

Outdoor amenities and activities help keep residents happy and engaged. They also make your retirement community more appealing to future residents and their families.

Patio Heater Options

When selecting heaters for your retirement community, you’ll choose between mushroom heaters and horizontal heaters. Both are types of infrared patio heaters that supply gentle, direct warmth.

Mushroom Heaters

  • Design: Round top emits heat in a 360-degree circle
  • Fuel Options: Available in natural gas patio heaters and propane patio heaters
  • Mounting Options: Post mount, floor mount, portable (propane models), or suspended overhead
  • Safety Features: Automatic fuel shutoff, sturdy construction
  • Ease of Use: Simple to operate with user-friendly controls
  • Other Benefits: Robust warranties provide added assurance
     

Mushroom heaters are great for central gathering spots where warmth in all directions is needed.

Horizontal Heaters

  • Design: Box-shaped, emitting heat directionally to cover specific areas
  • Fuel Options: Electric patio heaters, natural gas patio heaters, and propane patio heaters
  • Mounting Options: Suspended from structures, mounted to walls or poles for a clean look
  • Safety Features: Automatic fuel shutoff, sturdy construction for long-term durability
  • Ease of Use: Can include remote controls, programmable scheduling, and zone controls for flexibility
  • Other Benefits: Robust warranties offer peace of mind
     

Horizontal heaters work well in covered patios, under eaves, or along walls where directional heating is ideal.

Choosing the Right Fuel Type

Each fuel type has advantages for patio heaters. Your choice will depend on your property’s needs:

  • Electric patio heaters: Easy to install and maintain, with no need for fuel storage. Perfect for covered patios and areas with existing electrical infrastructure.
  • Natural gas patio heaters: Very cost-effective for large properties with existing gas lines. Offers consistent heating with low fuel costs.
  • Propane patio heaters: Flexible and portable. Ideal for properties without existing gas or electrical connections, or for spaces where mobility is needed.
     

Resident and Family Satisfaction

Adding patio heaters helps create warm, welcoming outdoor spaces where residents can socialize and relax. Comfortable patios encourage:

  • More time spent outdoors: Fresh air and sunshine improve well-being and mood.
  • Greater social interaction: Heated spaces support socializing, friendships, and community-building.
  • Happier, more engaged residents: Comfortable environments contribute to overall happiness and satisfaction.
  • Positive impressions on visiting families: Warm, well-used outdoor spaces create a positive image for current and prospective residents’ families.
     

Safety and Peace of Mind

All heaters feature:

  • Automatic fuel shutoff: Prevents accidents and ensures safety.
  • Sturdy, tip-resistant designs: Built to withstand daily use and weather conditions.
  • Easy-to-use controls: Simple operation so residents and staff can adjust heaters as needed.
     

This ensures a safe environment for residents and peace of mind for staff and families.

Enhance Your Retirement Community Today

Patio heaters are a simple upgrade with big returns. They make outdoor spaces more usable and enjoyable all year long. Whether you choose electric patio heaters, natural gas patio heaters, or propane patio heaters, you’ll help your residents stay warm, comfortable, and happy.

Talk to us about finding the right heaters for your retirement community!

Have a Question?

Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

* Required

We will not spam you.