Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renting Heaters for Events

AmericoolBlog

When planning an outdoor or tented event—especially in cooler seasons—renting portable heaters can be the difference between a cozy, successful gathering and a chilly, uncomfortable one. At Americool LLC, we’ve provided temporary climate control solutions for countless weddings, corporate events, festivals, and private parties.

To help you avoid last-minute headaches and make the most of your rental, here are some of the **most common mistakes people make when renting heaters for events—**and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Underestimating Heating Requirements

One small heater won’t heat a 5,000-square-foot tent. A major mistake is not properly sizing your heating needs. You need to consider the size of the space, whether the event is fully enclosed, the outside temperature, and the number of people attending.

Pro Tip: Talk to our experts at Americool—we’ll calculate the BTUs you need and recommend the right equipment for your space.

2. Renting the Wrong Type of Heater

Not all heaters are created equal. Some are ideal for open-air patios, while others are specifically designed for enclosed tent setups.

Infrared heaters are great for open spaces.

Indirect-fired heaters are safer for enclosed areas like tents, as they keep combustion gases separate.

Don’t guess. Renting the wrong type can create safety hazards or simply fail to heat the space.

3. Ignoring Ventilation and Airflow

Even in winter, airflow is important. Some heaters need proper ventilation to operate safely. In poorly ventilated spaces, you risk creating unsafe conditions for your guests and vendors.

Solution: Our team at Americool ensures every setup includes proper ducting, airflow, and CO-monitoring protocols when necessary.

4. Poor Heater Placement

Putting heaters too close to guests, decor, or tent walls can be dangerous—or at least uncomfortable. Placement affects both safety and efficiency.

Ask for a layout recommendation from our technicians to ensure even heat distribution without creating hot spots or fire hazards.

5. Not Booking Early Enough

Event season (especially fall weddings and winter galas) gets busy. Waiting until the last minute to book can limit your options—or worse, leave you without any heating at all.

Reserve early, especially for peak months. We can also help you plan ahead with backup power and fuel considerations.

6. Forgetting About Power and Fuel Needs

Some heaters need dedicated electrical circuits, while others require propane or diesel. If you don’t plan for this, you could blow fuses—or run out of fuel mid-event.

Let us handle it. Americool offers turnkey heating solutions, including fuel delivery and generator rental if needed.

Ready to Heat Things Up (the Right Way)?

At Americool LLC, we specialize in reliable, event-friendly heating rentals that keep your guests comfortable and your event running smoothly—no matter the weather. From weddings to large-scale corporate events, we’ll help you avoid the pitfalls and deliver the right solution every time.

Contact us today to get a quote or schedule a site visit. Your guests (and toes!) will thank you.