Calcana

For restaurant owners, maximizing seating capacity is essential. While outdoor patios are a great way to accommodate more guests, traditional mushroom-style heaters often fall short. They take up valuable space, require frequent refuelling, and fail to evenly distribute heat—leading to chilly, uncomfortable patrons. Tom Kershaw, owner of Boston’s famous Cheers pub, experienced these frustrations firsthand. “Besides being in the way, mushroom-style heaters always seem to run out of propane when the patio is full,” Kershaw explains. “Since our tables are fixed, we needed a more reliable, space-saving solution.” Infrared heating technology solves these challenges by providing superior coverage, efficiency, and control. Unlike bulky, floor-standing units, infrared heaters mount overhead, keeping pathways clear and delivering even warmth across an entire patio. After seeing Calcana’s infrared heaters at a Chicago Restaurant Show, Kershaw knew they were the solution. “New England gets chilly, and our old heaters couldn’t keep up. These heaters cover a much larger area, and with variable heat settings, we can adjust the temperature as needed.” Cheers’ Faneuil Hall Marketplace location—a major tourist destination—seats 70 guests outdoors. Thanks to infrared heating, the patio is now comfortable and profitable year-round. “Customers and staff immediately noticed the difference,” Kershaw says. “The heaters are 10 feet long, placed every 15 feet, providing great coverage.” Karson Builders has since made Calcana’s heaters the standard for a major restaurant chain. “They’re versatile in length and power, making them adaptable for any space,” Anderson adds. Beyond restaurants, golf courses, ski resorts, hotels, and valet areas are turning to infrared heating to keep guests comfortable. For businesses looking to extend patio season and maximize revenue, infrared heating is the clear choice.