Commercial-Grade Radiant Heating for Patios, Restaurants, and Outdoor Gathering Spaces
The SunStar SGL50-7 Glass Series Overhead Gas Patio Heater delivers powerful infrared radiant heat designed to extend the comfort and usability of outdoor spaces throughout cooler seasons. Unlike conventional heaters that warm surrounding air, the SGL50-7 transfers heat directly to people, furniture, and surfaces, creating comfortable warmth that remains effective even in outdoor environments.
Featuring a modern high-temperature tinted glass front, the Glass Series combines architectural styling with enhanced wind resistance, allowing dependable operation in wind conditions up to 40 MPH. With adjustable heat output ranging from 34,000 to 50,000 BTUs, this commercial-grade overhead heater is ideal for restaurants, hospitality venues, outdoor dining areas, patios, verandas, smoking lounges, vestibules, and residential entertainment spaces.
Factory-configured with a two-stage heating system, the SGL50-7 allows users to operate at reduced output during mild conditions or full power during colder weather. The versatile mounting design supports installation from horizontal to 60-degree angled positions, helping direct radiant heat where it is needed most.
Who Should Choose the SunStar SGL50-7?
The SunStar SGL50-7 is an excellent choice for outdoor spaces that need powerful, fixed, overhead gas heating without taking up floor space.
- Restaurant patios and outdoor dining areas
- Hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues
- Covered patios and entertainment spaces
- Smoking lounges and designated outdoor areas
- Commercial vestibules and entrances
- Residential outdoor living spaces
- Locations exposed to moderate wind conditions
When the SunStar SGL50-7 Is Not the Right Choice
- Do not choose this heater if you need portable or movable heating equipment.
- Do not install this heater in enclosed indoor spaces.
- Do not use this heater if your structure cannot meet the required clearances.
- Choose an electric heater if gas service is unavailable at the installation location.
- Use multiple heaters if the space is larger than approximately 12' x 12'.
Key Features and Benefits
• Powerful Infrared Radiant Heat: The SGL50-7 produces up to 50,000 BTUs of infrared radiant energy that warms people and objects directly, delivering efficient comfort without relying on heated air circulation.
• Wind-Resistant Glass Series Design: The high-temperature tinted glass front panel enhances the heater's appearance while helping maintain performance in wind conditions up to 40 MPH.
• Two-Stage Heat Control: Factory-configured dual-stage operation allows users to select lower output for mild weather or full output during colder conditions.
• Flexible Mounting Options: The heater can be installed horizontally or angled up to 60 degrees to optimize heat placement and coverage.
• Commercial and Residential Applications: Designed for demanding hospitality environments, the SGL50-7 is also suitable for upscale residential patios, outdoor kitchens, and entertainment areas.
• Space-Saving Overhead Installation: Overhead mounting preserves valuable floor space compared to freestanding patio heaters, making it ideal for dining layouts and high-traffic areas.
Common Applications
- Restaurant patios
- Outdoor dining areas
- Hotel terraces
- Resort pool decks
- Covered verandas
- Commercial hospitality venues
- Smoking lounges
- Event venues
- Residential outdoor kitchens
- Backyard entertainment spaces
Heating Coverage
Under minimal wind conditions, the SunStar SGL50-7 can effectively heat an area approximately 12 feet by 12 feet.
Coverage may decrease in open-air environments, high-wind locations, low ambient temperatures, or spaces with poor heat containment. Larger seating areas typically require multiple heaters for consistent comfort.
Manuals
SunStar SGL50-7 vs Freestanding Patio Heaters
| Feature |
SunStar SGL50-7 |
Freestanding Patio Heater |
| Mounting Style |
Overhead Mounted |
Portable Floor Unit |
| Floor Space Required |
None |
Occupies Patio Space |
| Wind Resistance |
Up to 40 MPH |
Lower Wind Performance |
| Commercial Applications |
Excellent |
Moderate |
| Aesthetic Integration |
Architectural Appearance |
Visible Equipment |
| Heat Direction Control |
Adjustable Mounting Angles |
Fixed Position |
Installation Requirements
Before purchasing the SunStar SGL50-7, confirm that the installation location meets all gas, mounting, ventilation, and clearance requirements.
- Verify that natural gas or propane supply is available.
- Confirm that the mounting structure can support overhead heater installation.
- Maintain all required side, front, rear, below, and overhead clearances.
- Follow local gas, building, and ventilation codes.
- Use the optional heat shield when reduced overhead clearance is required.
Clearance Requirements
| Mounting Angle |
Ceiling |
Ceiling w/ Shield |
Back |
Back w/ Shield |
Side |
End |
Below |
Front |
| 0° |
20" |
10" |
N/A |
N/A |
24" |
12" |
40" |
48" |
| 30° |
23" |
14" |
8" |
8" |
24" |
12" |
40" |
48" |
| 60° |
24" |
17" |
12" |
12" |
24" |
12" |
40" |
48" |
Important: Always follow manufacturer installation instructions and local code requirements. Clearance requirements must be verified before installation.
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
SunStar |
| Series |
Glass Series |
| Model |
SGL50-7 |
| Fuel Options |
Natural Gas or Propane |
| Heat Output |
34,000 - 50,000 BTU |
| Heater Type |
Infrared Radiant Patio Heater |
| Installation Type |
Overhead Mounted |
| Wind Resistance |
Up to 40 MPH |
| Coverage Area |
Approximately 12' x 12' |
| Mounting Angles |
0° to 60° |
| Height |
9½" |
| Depth |
11½" |
| Length |
48" |
| Glass Type |
High-Temperature Tinted Glass |
| Control Type |
Factory Two-Stage |
| Commercial Use |
Yes |
| Residential Use |
Yes |
