Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters can help you boost your profits by giving customers the ability to stay warm outside even after the seasons change. They require little maintenance and can last for years.
Keep the heater in a safe place from materials that could ignite and follow all manufacturer's guidelines for testing, servicing, and lighting. A certified technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Contrary to propane models gas patio heaters are plugged directly to the natural gas line of your home and are therefore more stable than their portable counterparts. The heaters are more efficient in heating and can be put in larger areas due to the fact that they can be used with multiple piping systems. However they require a professional installation to ensure proper size of gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters cannot be refueled by extension hoses, therefore they're not as portable.
You'll also need to determine the number of BTUs you'll require to heat your space. To figure this out you can utilize an easy math equation by multiplying the size of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide the result by the maximum number of BTUs your heater for patio use can generate to figure out how many units you'll need.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models usually have wheels for easy mobility, and can also accommodate tables or any other surface under the burner head. The base is made from stainless steel and has a protective finish that resists corrosion and corrosion. The wall-mount model is the best option for areas that have high ceilings or are too big to use freestanding models. They can be hung up to 14 feet high and include a mounting kit that includes a bracket, quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valve.
You'll need a regular check for leaks when installing a patio heater. You can spot them with a soapy water solution. Also, look for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect there is leaks in your heater, have an experienced technician or plumber assess the heater and make any repairs that are required.
It is not enough to check for leaks, but also consider whether your patio is near the ocean or located in an area with salt air. This can cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode faster rate than those in non-ocean areas. It is also recommended that you install a drain pan at the bottom of your gas line in order to prevent the accumulation of sediment that could impact the performance of your heater and cause safety issues.
Safety
Patio heaters are adored for their comfort and ambiance. However, it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself. This includes placing the heater in a ventilated area and ensuring it's kept away from children or pets and regularly examining the heater for any signs of damage or wear. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should only be only used in outdoor areas since they can release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater uses a fuel tank that must be replenished or replaced every now and then. Tanks can be refilled at many gas stations as well as convenience stores. When not in use, it is important to store the tank properly. It poses a fire risk and should never be stored indoors or close to other items that are flammable. The propane tank must be covered when not in use and the valve shut to keep leaks from occurring.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and could tip over if not placed on a level surface. Place the standing heaters on a level surface and secure them using bungee cords, heat-resistant tie or other methods to stop them from falling. Standing heaters can also tip over more easily if there is an extremely strong wind, therefore weights should be used to stop this.
Some people prefer a natural gas patio heater, which connects to a home's existing natural gas line and is more affordable to operate than propane. These are permanent systems, which require professional installation. They should be placed in outdoor areas that are well-ventilated.
Some patio heaters employ infrared technology to warm up the surrounding surfaces instead of heating the air directly. This type is generally safer around kids and pets, as it doesn't produce any smoke or flames, however they might not be efficient in colder climates and aren't recommended for very large spaces. It's also important to install a carbon monoxide alarm close to patio heaters using infrared technologies. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emission and give you a chance to extinguish the source before it turns into a fire or health hazard.
Maintenance
Check and clean regularly your patio heaters. It is crucial to make sure that the gas line doesn't have a blockage and that all components are working properly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a empty or full level. This can cause the heater to function inefficiently, which could be dangerous. The burner, orifices and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. The venturi of the burner and all other openings should be free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel used on the patio heater will not "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions may create brown deposits that require cleaning frequently.
Gas patio heaters can be very powerful, and based on the model, they can quickly heat up a large area. They are ideal for outdoor areas that can be easily moved around and are generally more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by natural gas or propane and are best used in areas that have good ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most well-known type because they are highly portable and easily refilled. They are ideal for pergolas, gazebos and other covered outdoor areas. They are cheaper than the other two types of patio heaters however they produce fumes and could be an ignition hazard if they are not maintained properly.
The regulator or gas hose is the connection between the propane tank and the burner unit. To prevent leaks and damage, it is important to replace your hose frequently. Gas regulators should be replaced at least every 10 years, regardless of any visible damage. This is especially important when changing from one propane cylinder size to another.
The most common problem with propane patio heaters is that the flame will not remain lit. The thermocouple can be too far 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 together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are very clean burning and rapidly heat up. They are extremely mobile, and do not require power sources. You can move them around your outdoor space. gas flame patio heater make them a great choice for multi-family or commercial spaces.
The cleaning methods associated with these types of heaters are quite simple. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been shut off and cool to the touch. This will ensure that you don't accidentally damaging the unit. First remove the top cover and take the burner assembly apart. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol onto the orifices and burner venturis which are inside the burner assembly. This will help in removing any spider webs and dust that have accumulated.
If you have painted the exterior of your natural gas heater be sure not to paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions. Also, do not paint the valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These areas will need to be cleaned with water and soap solution or car wax at least a few times per year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or in outdoor areas that is exposed to the elements.