Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters permit you to provide warmth to customers outdoors long after the seasons change and can boost profits. They require little maintenance and can last years.
Keep the heater of your patio away from materials that could ignite and follow all manufacturer instructions for testing, servicing and lighting. A qualified technician should repair any leaks.
Installation
Contrary to propane models gas patio heaters are connected directly to the natural gas line of your home and are therefore more stable than portable heaters. The heaters heat up faster and can be put in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple pipes. They require professional installation in order to ensure the correct sizing of the gas lines. In addition natural gas patio heaters aren't as portable than propane ones because they aren't able to be refueled with extension hoses.
You'll also have to determine the number of BTUs you'll require to heat the space. The best way to calculate this is to use a simple math formula that is to multiply the square area of your outdoor space by its desired temperature increase. Divide the result by the maximum BTUs that your patio heater can generate to determine how many units you'll require.
A patio heater can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models typically come with wheels for mobility and can accommodate a table or other surface under the burner head. The base is made of rugged stainless steel, and has an anti-corrosion finish to ward off corrosion and rust. Wall-mount models, on the other side, are a great option for rooms with high ceilings and that are too large for freestanding models. They can be hung up to 14 feet high and come with mounting kits that include a bracket and quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valves.
When you install a gas outdoor patio heater, you'll need to check for leaks frequently. You can spot them with a soapy water solution. You should also check for signs of rusting or burning. If you suspect that there is an issue with your heater, have an experienced technician or plumber inspect it and make any necessary repairs.
You should not only check for leaks, but also think about whether your patio is close to the ocean or is located in an area where there is salt air. This can cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode faster rate than the parts in non-ocean areas. It is also recommended to install drain pans at the bottom of your gas line to minimize any sediment accumulation that may impact the performance of your heater and cause safety issues.
Safety
Patio heaters are popular due to their comfort and ambiance. However, it is important to take safety precautions. These include placing the heater in a well-ventilated space and keeping it away from children or pets and regularly checking the heater for signs of damage or wear. Propane or natural gas patio heaters are designed to be used in outdoor areas, as they emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater has tanks for fuel that need to be replaced or filled every now and then. Most gas stations and convenience shops can refill tanks. When not in use, it is essential to properly store the tank. It poses a fire risk and should never be kept indoors or close to other items that can ignite. The propane tank should also be covered when not in use, and the valve should be shut to stop leaks.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and may be prone to tipping over if not set on a level surface. Place standing heaters on an even surface and secure them with bungee cords, heat-resistant ties, or other methods to stop them from falling. Standing heaters may also tip over more easily when there is an intense wind, so weights are recommended to stop this.
Some people prefer to use natural-gas patio heaters. It is more affordable to run and can be connected to the natural gas line of your home. These are permanent systems, which require professional installation. They should be placed in well-ventilated outdoor spaces.
Some patio heaters warm nearby surfaces using infrared rather than directly heating the air. This type of heater is safer for children and pets as it doesn't release any flames or fumes. However, they may not be effective in warmer climates or for large spaces. It is also essential to have a carbon monoxide detector near any outdoor heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and give you the chance to eliminate the source before it can become a fire or health danger.
gas for patio heater
Check and clean regularly your heaters for your patio regularly. It is crucial to make sure that the gas line does not have a blockage and that all parts are working properly. Also, make sure the propane tank does not have a low or empty level. This could cause the heater to operate inefficiently, and it could pose a risk. The burner, orifices and the pilot tube should be free of carbon deposits. All openings, including the burner venturi should be cleaned and free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel used on the patio heater won't "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions may create brown deposits that need to be cleaned regularly.
Gas patio heaters can be extremely strong, and based on the model, they can swiftly heat up a large area. They are ideal for outdoor spaces and are easy to move. They are usually more expensive than electric heaters. They require a propane or natural gas fuel source and are best employed in areas with good ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most sought-after type due to their being highly portable and easily filled. They are ideal for gazebos and covered outdoor areas, as well as pergolas. They are cheaper than the other two kinds of patio heaters however they do produce gas and can be an ignition hazard if they are not maintained properly.
The gas hose or regulator is the connection between the propane tank and the burner unit. It is crucial to replace the gas hose on a regular basis to prevent leaks and damage. The gas regulator should be replaced every 10 years or so, regardless of whether there is any obvious damage to the part. This is particularly important when converting from one size of propane gas cylinder to another.
The most common problem with propane patio heaters is that the flame does not remain lit. This is usually caused by the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. This is usually a simple fix by removing the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two parts closer.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters burn easily and quickly. They are also highly mobile and do not require electricity, which means you can move them from one area of your outdoor space to another. These characteristics make them a great option for commercial or multifamily spaces.
They are easy to clean. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been turned off and is cool to a comfortable temperature. This prevents you from accidentally causing damage to the unit. Remove the top cover and then take the burner assembly apart. Make use of a cotton swab rub alcohol onto the orifices and burner venturis that are inside of the burner assembly. This will help in removing dust and spider webs that have accumulated.
If you've painted the exterior of your natural gas heater make sure you do not paint the grid of the emitter or the lighting instructions. Also, don't paint the control knob or valve or the LP cylinder. These surfaces need to be cleaned with water and mild soap or car wax at least a few times a year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking brand new. This is particularly important in areas with high traffic or in outdoor areas that is exposed to the elements.