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Understanding Infrared Heat: How it Works and Where it Excels

Roberts Gordon Infrared Heaters Indoor view

1. Introduction

2. What Is Infrared Heat?

3. Here are everyday examples of infrared heat in action:

4. Common Applications of Our Infrared Heat

5. Benefits of Infrared Heat

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Roberts-Gordon Unveils UltraVibe™ Two-Stage Outdoor Infrared Heater

Buffalo, NY – September 8, 2025– Roberts-Gordon, a Madison Air company, proudly introduces the UltraVibe™ Two-Stage Outdoor Infrared Heater (VOH). Model VOH is a cutting-edge solution designed to extend the usability of outdoor spaces year-round while delivering enhanced comfort and energy efficiency.

Engineered for patios, outdoor venues, golf ranges, and residential decks, UltraVibe™ heaters provide targeted, sun-like warmth that heats people and objects directly, rather than heating the air. This radiant approach helps ensure cozy, draft-free comfort even in open-air environments, helping businesses increase seating capacity and revenue during colder months.           

“UltraVibe™ is more than a heater, it’s a smart investment for outdoor spaces,” said Danny Henry, General Manager at Roberts-Gordon. “With dual-stage operation and a sleek, durable design, it’s built to perform, impress, and last.”

Available in natural gas only, UltraVibe™ has three compact sizes offering high heat output in shorter lengths which is ideal for space-conscious installations. With high (low) inputs of 80,000 Btu/h (55,000), 100,000 Btu/h (70,000), and 125,000 Btu/h (85,000), UltraVibe™ features two-stage heat control for adaptive comfort and energy savings. External LED burner status lights indicate operating mode.

UltraVibe™ heaters are designed to complement outdoor aesthetics and endure harsh climates with a sleek, black powder-coated burner, optional hexagon aluminum grille for safety and style, durable components, and a vinyl-coated flexible stainless steel gas hose. Quiet, overhead installation keeps heaters out of the way while maximizing usable space. UltraVibe™ is certified to ANSI Z83.20/CSA 2.34, 2.17, 2.20 and backed by Roberts-Gordon’s decades of infrared heating expertise and a three-year warranty.

Whether heating a bustling patio or a quiet residential deck, UltraVibe™ helps keep outdoor spaces open and profitable year-round. UltraVibe™ Outdoor Patio Heaters are available through the company’s extensive representative network. For more information, visit www.RobertsGordon.com.

About Roberts-Gordon

Over 60 years ago, Roberts-Gordon pioneered infrared heating with the launch of its CORAYVAC® burners-in-series system. Today, we remain an industry leader, enhancing comfort, productivity, and well-being in commercial and industrial spaces. Our broad portfolio includes gas low-intensity and gas/electric high-intensity infrared heaters. Please visit https://www.robertsgordon.com/.

About Madison Air

Madison Air, one of the world’s leading privately held companies, combines the innovation and nimble, responsive service of a startup with the sophistication and scale of a global enterprise. Madison Air’s best-in-class portfolio of innovative brands make the world safer, healthier, and more productive through the power of better air. Our purpose is rooted in the belief that whether it’s protecting valuable data or equipment, optimizing crop quality and yield, or improving the productivity, health and retention of your workers, there’s a direct correlation between air and outcomes. Please visit us at www.madisonair.com.

UltraVibe Outdoor Infrared Heater

UltraVibe™ Two-Stage Outdoor Infrared Heater

Keep Your Space Warm and Inviting Year-Round

Two-stage heaters allow you to fire at two distinct burner rates (high/low) for each model. With this technology, UltraVibe™ produces a comfortable and consistent heat pattern based on outdoor conditions. External LED burner status lights on the unit indicate high or low operation. By operating on low stage to maintain temperature, two-stage systems use less fuel, helping you save on energy bills.

Built to Blend in and Last

Key Features


Applications


Find A Rep Near You!

Many of our independent representative partners are second and third generation firms. These infrared heating experts can help guide you through the entire buying process from design to installation.

Outdoor Infrared Heaters

Patio Heaters

Outdoor Infrared Heating

Infrared Heaters Built to Last for Restaurants, Patios, Balconies and Other Outside Venues

Keep the Summer Going with Outdoor Infrared Heating!

With infrared tube heaters, you can extend your outdoor season and keep customers comfortable. Radiant tube heaters are easy to install under awnings, patios, and covered areas, so patio seating is protected from unpredictable weather. Instead of warming the air around the patio and wasting energy, infrared heaters keep patrons and furnishings warm – making the patio season last longer.

During cooler months or evenings, when the temperature drops, the infrared tube heaters provide a reliable and efficient source of heat that allows customers to stay warm and cozy. This extended outdoor season offers a unique and pleasant experience for patrons, attracting more customers.

  • Restaurants, bars, patios and balconies
  • Wineries and breweries
  • Fitness centers and sporting venues
  • Churches and campgrounds
  • Dog kennels, horse barns and other animal housing

Introducing the Brand New GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Patio Heater!

Living in a northern climate means you don’t have much time to enjoy the warm season. Cold weather usually signals the end of outdoor seating for restaurant and venue owners.

But what if you could extend your outdoor season and keep occupants comfortable even in the colder months? Enter Roberts-Gordon’s new GordonGlo™ Elite patio heaters!

Layout diagram of outdoor heaters

Check Out Our Other Outdoor Infrared Heating Products

Harsh Environment Heater

Harsh Environment, Industrial-Grade, Radiant Gas Heaters

Long-Lasting Outdoor Patio Heaters
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High Performance,
Electric Patio Heaters

For Outdoor Residential and Indoor/Outdoor, Industrial/Commercial Buildings

Roberts-Gordon gas and electric outdoor infrared heaters provide long lasting performance in extreme weather conditions. As infrared heats like the sun, our patio heaters make it possible to enjoy the comfort of the indoors outside. Durable finishes and components minimize exposure to dirt and moisture and provide a clean, quiet heating experience. Our heaters withstand whatever nature throws at them, making them the ideal choice for outdoor patios and event spaces. 

Let Us Design Your Outdoor Space!

Find A Rep Near You!

Many of our independent representative partners are second and third generation firms. These infrared heating experts can help guide you through the entire buying process from design to installation.

High Intensity Radiant Spot Heaters

Space Heaters in Covered Patio

High Intensity Radiant Spot Heaters

Target Heat Where Needed with Choice of Gas or Electric Models

Gas and Electric Infrared Space Heaters for Your
Industrial, Commercial, and Residential Needs

High intensity, infrared space heaters produce more intense heat by utilizing a high surface temperature system. These heaters provide concentrated heating to a more targeted area and are most effective at providing spot heating to areas such as loading docks, auto service bays, warehouses, or other areas where large doors remain open or are opened frequently.

Because of the greater infrared intensity, these heaters can be installed at taller mounting heights. It is common for them to be mounted on ceiling rafters or on walls.

Gas-Fired Heating for Indoor Industrial/Commercial Buildings

Easy to install and built with heavy-duty components, our gas-fired, high intensity, radiant heaters are designed to last. To maximize efficiency and occupant comfort, heat is directed where it’s needed most. This “spot heating” is perfect for areas where there is a high demand for heat, such as bay doors and loading docks.

Ceiling hung, Roberts-Gordon high intensity heaters are available in natural gas or propane and can be mounted horizontal or up to 35° from horizontal, directing heat only where needed, ensuring optimum efficiency and occupant comfort.

Features of High Intensity Ceramic Heaters

high intensity honeycomb design

Exclusive honeycomb tile ceramic burner design (up to 1800 °F surface temperature) and secondary re-radiating surface of high temperature, stainless steel rods provides maximum radiant output.

Highly efficient, aluminum reflectors direct energy on people, floors and objects below provides greater comfort at lower air temperatures, while using less energy.

Wide range of Btu/h inputs and angle mounting options provide design flexibility; perfect for replacing existing high intensity ceramic heaters.

Corrosion resistant, aluminized steel body/burner head and stainless-steel tile retainer provide durable construction.

Equipped with 100% gas shut-off control and reliable 24V direct spark ignition for safety.

5-year limited ceramic burner warranty and 1-year limited warranty on heater’s control assembly components, provide peace of mind.

Completely factory assembled, requires no field assembly, easy to ship and install.

CSA certified to ANSI Z83.19 and CSA 2.34 (NOT certified for residential use).

Specification Sheet
Installation Manual
Buying Guide

Q:  How do I purchase gas-fired radiant heaters?

A:  We sell through our independent representatives.  Find the one closest to you.

Q:  What are the best applications for gas-fired radiant heaters?

A:  Our gas-fired heaters can be used in any industrial or commercial building, providing comfortable spot heating where you need it most.

Electric Heating for Outdoor Residential or Indoor/Outdoor Commercial/Industrial Spaces

Simply open the box, connect electric, hang and heat. Our electric high intensity infrared heaters offer high performance radiant heating for outdoor residential or indoor/outdoor industrial/commercial areas alike. 

Whether you’re a restaurant owner looking to heat your outdoor dining area or a home owner just looking to heat your patio, we have you covered.

Extend Your Outdoor Heating Season with GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Patio Heaters!

In the colder months, what if you could extend your outdoor season and keep your occupants comfortable? Enter Roberts-Gordon’s new GordonGlo™ Elite patio heaters!

Our GordonGlo™ Elite patio heaters are designed for comfort and durability. They allow you to keep your outdoor space open all year long, ensuring your guests stay for longer.

Get a Free Heat Loss Analysis or Facility Design Today!

Find A Rep Near You!

Many of our independent representative partners are second and third generation firms. These infrared heating experts can help guide you through the entire buying process from design to installation.

Infrared Heater Applications

Industrial and Commercial Radiant Heating Solutions

Experts in Heating Distribution Centers, Manufacturing Spaces, Airplane Hangars and More!

See Air Differently ™ – engineered solutions for better air performance

Industrial Heating

Infrared Tube Heaters Customized For Every Application

For each application, low-intensity infrared heaters are strategically placed to deliver even heat distribution throughout. Airplane hangars or large storage warehouse facilities require a wide heat pattern, due to high ceiling heights. Smaller areas, such as a fire station, utilize side reflectors to direct heat where it is needed most.

Contact your knowledgeable factory representative if you need help designing infrared tube heaters for your building. Browse our extensive infrared heater application content to find the right solution for your space!

Get a Free Heat Loss Analysis or Facility Design Today!

Find A Rep Near You!

Many of our independent representative partners are second and third generation firms. These infrared heating experts can help guide you through the entire buying process from design to installation.

Roberts-Gordon Infrared Heating

SB
INNOVATORS OF LOW-INTENSITY INFRARED HEATING

FOR INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS

Goodbye cold, industrial spaces – Hello comfort and warmth!

Who says large, open, industrial buildings have to be cold and drafty because they are too expensive to heat? By bringing the warmth of the sun indoors, Roberts-Gordon infrared radiant tube heaters are the perfect, energy efficient solution for a variety of industrial and commercial applications.

An added bonus of our radiant tube heaters is that industrial building owners no longer have to sacrifice employee comfort and productivity to keep fuel costs low. Unlike traditional warm air heaters, Roberts-Gordon gas-fired radiant tube heaters provide greater comfort while using significantly less energy.

Infrared tube heaters for industrial buildings of all shapes and sizes

Whether you need custom-engineered heating systems or infrared tube heaters or even plug and play electric or gas infrared heaters, Roberts-Gordon has you covered. We are the heating experts for industrial buildings like warehouses, manufacturing facilities, airplane hangars and vehicle service centers. We also provide commercial and residential solutions too.

Roberts Gordon Industrial Infrared Heating.

Efficient heating for hard-to-heat industrial spaces

Heating large, open spaces with traditional air heaters results in uneven, inefficient heating. Infrared radiant tube heaters from Roberts Gordon focus heat in occupied spaces, creating even temperatures and maximum comfort while using less energy.

Keep your outdoor patio comfortable year-round

Stay outside even as the temperatures drop with our outdoor patio heaters. Choose from residential or commercial models, gas or electric, spot or space heaters. All radiant patio heaters are ceiling hung, freeing up valuable floor space.

Roberts Gordon Agricultural Infrared Heating

Healthier livestock, healthier profits

Roberts-Gordon agricultural radiant tube heaters create a uniform heat pattern, gently warming chicks, pigs and other livestock. Greater comfort is achieved using less energy. Happier, healthier animals maximize yield and profits.

Decades of Radiant Heating Experience

Looking to install new heaters or upgrade your old heating systems? No worries! We’ve been making people and spaces comfortable for over six decades.

What is Infrared Heating?

Instead of heating the air, Roberts-Gordon low-intensity, infrared radiant tube heaters heat people, floors, machinery and other objects in the space via radiation, convection, absorption and conduction.

Get a Free Heat Loss Analysis or Design of Your Facility Today!

Find A Rep Near You!

Many of our independent representative partners are second and third generation firms. These infrared heating experts can help guide you through the entire buying process from design to installation.

GordonGlo™ Elite

GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Patio Heaters

Exceptional Comfort Built to Last in Outdoor Spaces

Summer Never Ends with GordonGlo™ Elite Outdoor Infrared Heating!

If you live in a Northern climate, you know the warm season doesn’t last long. For owners of restaurants and outdoor venues, the start of cold weather usually means it’s time to close outdoor spaces. And just like that, your facility gets smaller.

But what if you could extend your outdoor season and keep occupants comfortable even during the colder months? Enter Roberts-Gordon’s new GordonGlo™ Elite patio heaters!

Built with comfort and durability in mind, GordonGlo™ Elite patio heaters allow your outdoor space to stay open all year, ensuring guests stay longer. Increasing seating capacity and revenue, GordonGlo™ Elite heaters are a perfect addition to any outdoor space struggling with high heat loss.

GordonGlo™ Elite infrared patio heaters raise the bar on comfort and quality.

  • Long-lasting performance – durable construction to withstand extreme rain or snow, even winds up to 40 mph.
  • Gentle uniform comfort – spreads heat evenly and provides a soft red glow of infrared energy.
  • Lower energy costs – saves energy by heating people, floors and objects, not the air around the space.
  • Expanded outdoor seating capacity – more patrons means more revenue.
  • Saves valuable floor space – ceiling or wall mounted under awnings, patios, and covered areas.
  • Quiet operation – no running fan to interfere with guest experience.
  • Environmentally-conscious – NOx emission levels as low as 15 parts per million adjusted for 3% O2.

Competitor and GordonGlo™ Elite

A competitive model can only be installed at a 58ĚŠ angle limiting installation flexibility. As shown, the flames are not totally enclosed, evident in darker environments. Exposed flame outside the heater is not desirable and can be a potential safety issue if the heater is mounted too close to combustibles.

Unlike others, our burner design prevents heat rollout during harsh wind conditions, eliminating exposed.
flames outside the heater. Even when mounted at a 60ĚŠ angle, the burner flame is enclosed as shown.

A Versatile Comfort Solution

Because of its flexibility, GordonGlo™ Elite heaters can accommodate almost any outdoor space. Multiple mounting options direct heat where you need it most, allowing guests to stay a while.

This layout shows how nine heaters (the black rectangles) can heat an entire outdoor patio.

Brochure
Submittal
Installation Manual
Specification Sheet

Q:  How do I purchase GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Heaters?

A:  We sell through our independent representatives.  Find the one closest to you.

Q:  What are the best applications for GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Heaters?

A:  GordonGlo™ Elite heaters are perfect for outdoor restaurants, bars, and patios.

Q: Are GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Heaters weather resistant?

A: Yes! GordonGlo™ Elite heaters can withstand extreme rain, snow, and wind up to 40 mph.

Q: Are GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Heaters environmentally conscious?

A: Yes! GordonGlo™ Elite heaters have emission levels as low as 15 parts per million adjusted for 3% O2.

 

Let Us Design Your Space Today!

Find A Rep Near You!

Many of our independent representative partners are second and third generation firms. These infrared heating experts can help guide you through the entire buying process from design to installation.

AHR 2026

Meet Roberts-Gordon at AHR Expo 2026!

The International Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition

Where: Las Vegas Convention Center, Central and South Halls

3150 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

When: February 2 – 4, 2026

About: The AHR Expo brings the entire HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) industry together to showcase cutting-edge products and technologies, gain insights from industry leaders, foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, and drive business and career growth.

Comfort without Limits

CORAYVAC® Infrared Heating System

CoRayVac® low intensity infrared heaters provide a fully engineered design and layout option for complete building comfort. Lower exhaust temperatures provide energy and fuel savings, reducing the cost of high heating bills.

NEW – DTH Docked Trailer Heater

The Roberts-Gordon Docked Trailer Heater (DTH) sets a new standard for dock efficiency, quickly turning cold trailers into warm, workable environments in under seven minutes. Installed directly at the dock door, it stays clear of daily operations while delivering a powerful stream of heated air – no need for in-trailer units or extended warm-up times.

NEW – UltraVibe™ two-stage Outdoor Infrared Heaters

UltraVibe™ two-stage outdoor infrared heaters deliver efficient, targeted heat, even in open-air environments, making patios and outdoor venues usable year-round. UltraVibe™ two-stage outdoor infrared heaters gently warm like the sun, heating people, floors, furniture, and other objects directly, creating a cozy atmosphere that lasts. 

GordonGlo™ Elite Patio Heater

Built with comfort and durability in mind, GordonGlo™ Elite patio heaters allow your outdoor space to stay open all year, ensuring guests stay longer. Increasing seating capacity and revenue, GordonGlo™ Elite heaters are a perfect addition to any outdoor space struggling with high heat loss.

VANTAGE® Low-Intensity, Gas-Fired Infrared Heater

ROBERTS GORDON® VANTAGE® CTH2V-Series infrared tube heater sets the standard for single stage unitary heaters. The CTH2V-Series are premium quality unitary heaters built for reliable long-lasting performance in industrial or commercial applications. 

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Launch Kits

New Product Launch Kits

Read All About our Latest Product Offerings!

UltraVibe™ Two-Stage Outdoor Infrared Heater

UltraVibe™ two-stage outdoor infrared heaters deliver efficient, targeted heat, even in open-air environments, making patios and outdoor venues usable year-round. UltraVibe™ two-stage outdoor infrared heaters gently warm like the sun, heating people, floors, furniture, and other objects directly, creating a cozy atmosphere that lasts. 

EUHC Compact Electric Unit Heater

Roberts-Gordon EUHC compact unit heaters may be small, but don’t let that fool you. Our newest electric heater delivers efficient heat while offering unmatched flexibility. With eight sizes and seven voltage/phase combinations, EUHC can be installed across a wide range of building sizes and types.

DTH Docked Trailer Heater

The Roberts-Gordon Docked Trailer Heater (DTH) sets a new standard for dock efficiency, quickly turning cold trailers into warm, workable environments in under seven minutes. Installed directly at the dock door, it stays clear of daily operations while delivering a powerful stream of heated air – no need for in-trailer units or extended warm-up times.

ROBERTS-GORDON Modulating Controller

Take control of your building’s comfort and energy efficiency with the ROBERTS-GORDON Modulating Controller, designed to simplify complex infrared heating systems for installing contractors, facility managers, and building owners. It’s the intelligent, hassle-free way to deliver consistent warmth and real savings.

GordonGlo™ Elite Radiant Patio Heaters

Built with comfort and durability in mind, GordonGlo™ Elite patio heaters allow outdoor spaces to stay open all year, ensuring guests stay comfortable.