Infratech vs Sunpak vs Sunglo: Which Patio Heater Brand Actually Delivers?
The short answer: Infratech for electric infrared (residential covered patios, restaurants with a ceiling). Sunpak for gas infrared (open-air commercial patios, high-BTU needs). Sunglo for budget-friendly gas heating (same parent company as Sunpak, lower price point, proven since 1961).
These three brands cover different needs despite all being "patio heaters." Infratech is electric. Sunpak and Sunglo are gas. The choice depends on your space, your budget, and whether you have electrical or gas infrastructure.
Infratech — The Electric Standard
Infratech has been making infrared electric heaters in the USA for over 50 years. They're the brand that restaurants, hotels, and architects specify by name. If you've sat under a heater on a high-end restaurant patio, there's a good chance it was an Infratech.
Best for: Covered patios, pergolas, ceiling-mount installations. Anywhere you have electrical access and a mounting surface above.
Key advantage: Silent, zero emissions, zero smell, instant heat. You flip a switch and it's warm in 30 seconds.
Popular model: W-Series 39" (3,000W) — covers 150 sq ft, $750. Our most-recommended residential heater.
Operating cost: $0.30-0.80/hour depending on wattage.
Sunpak — The Gas Workhorse
Sunpak has been made in Southern California by Infrared Dynamics since 1966. They're gas-powered infrared heaters — which means they project directional heat (effective in wind) but require a gas line. Higher BTU output than electric, making them better for large open spaces.
Best for: Open-air patios, commercial spaces, areas without electrical access, high-BTU needs.
Key advantage: 25,000-34,000 BTU from a wall-mount fixture. More heat per unit than electric.
Popular model: S34 TSH stainless (34,000 BTU) — covers 200 sq ft, $1,150. The restaurant patio standard.
Operating cost: $1.00-2.50/hour for gas.
Sunglo — The Value Pick
Sunglo is Sunpak's sibling brand — same parent company (Infrared Dynamics), same California manufacturing, same infrared technology, lower price point. Sunglo heaters have been in continuous production since 1961. They're the workhorses you see at resorts, hotels, and backyards that prioritize function over aesthetics.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, commercial volume installations, permanent post or hanging installations.
Key advantage: Proven reliability at a lower price. The A242 has been essentially unchanged for decades because it works.
Popular model: A242 stainless (50,000 BTU portable) — $900. A244 hanging model — $850.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Heat type: Infratech = electric infrared, Sunpak = gas infrared, Sunglo = gas infrared. Wind resistance: all three are excellent (infrared heats objects, not air). Noise: Infratech is silent, Sunpak/Sunglo have a low gas hiss. Smell: Infratech has none, Sunpak/Sunglo have slight gas odor. Installation: Infratech needs an electrician, Sunpak/Sunglo need a gas line.
Our Recommendations
Residential covered patio: Infratech W-Series. Silent, clean, beautiful. $650-1,050.
Residential open patio: Sunpak S34 if you have gas. Infratech WD-Series dual element if you have electric. $1,050-1,150.
Restaurant/commercial: Infratech for covered dining (silence matters). Sunpak S34 for open-air. Sunglo A242 for high-volume installations where cost per unit matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which patio heater brand lasts longest?
All three last 10-15 years with basic maintenance. Infratech heating elements may need replacement every 5-7 years ($50-150). Sunpak and Sunglo gas components last the full lifespan with annual inspection.
Can I use Infratech outdoors without a ceiling?
Technically yes with a pole mount, but Infratech performs best under a ceiling or overhang. Without one, rain exposure and lack of heat reflection reduce effectiveness. For open-air, gas infrared (Sunpak/Sunglo) is a better choice.
Are Sunpak and Sunglo the same company?
Yes — both are made by Infrared Dynamics in Southern California. Sunpak is the premium line with more design options and finishes. Sunglo is the proven-reliable line at a lower price point.
Last updated: April 2026.