Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters can help you increase profits by providing customers with warmth outside even after the seasons have changed. They require little maintenance and last for many years.
Keep the heater of your patio away from combustible materials and follow all manufacturer instructions for testing, servicing, and lighting. A certified technician in service should repair 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. They also heat up faster and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple pipes. They require a professional installation to ensure the correct sizing of the gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters cannot be refueled with extension hoses, so they are less portable.
You'll also need to calculate the number of BTUs you'll require to heat the area. To figure this out you can make use of an easy math equation: multiply the area of your outdoor space with the desired temperature increase. Then, divide the result by the highest number of BTUs your patio heater can produce to determine how many units you'll need.
Patio heaters can be mounted on the wall or freestanding. Freestanding models typically have wheels for mobility and can accommodate tables or any other surface beneath the burner head. The base is made from stainless steel and has a protective finish that is resistant to corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units, on the other hand, are a better option for rooms with high ceilings and are too large for freestanding models. They can be hung up to 14 feet in the air and include an installation kit that includes a bracket as well as quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valves.
You'll need to check regularly for leaks prior to installing an outdoor heater. A soapy water solution could be used to spot them, and you should also look for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect a leak, you should have a plumber or qualified technician inspect the heater and make repairs as needed.
In addition to looking for leaks, you should consider whether your patio is in a region with salt air or is close to the ocean. This could cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode at a faster rate than those in non-ocean environments. Install a drain pan at the bottom of the gas line to eliminate the amount of sediment that accumulates. This could impact heater performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are popular for their comfort and ambiance. However, it's important to take safety precautions. These include placing the heater in a well-ventilated space and ensuring it's kept away from pets or children, and regularly inspecting the heater for indications of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas patio heater s should only be only used in outdoor areas, as they can release harmful gases like carbon monoxide when inhaled.
A propane patio heater is equipped with an oil tank that must be replenished or replaced regularly. A majority of convenience stores and gas stations can refill tanks. It is essential to store the tank in a safe manner when not in use, since it's a fire hazard and should not be stored indoors or near other objects that are flammable. When not in use the propane tank must be closed and the valve shut to stop leaks.
Propane patio heaters are unstable and could slide over if not placed on a solid base. Place the standing heaters on a level surface and secure with bungee cords, heat-resistant ties, or other methods to keep them from falling. Standing heaters may also tip over more easily if there is an intense wind, so weights are recommended to prevent this.
Some people prefer to use a natural-gas patio heater. It is more affordable to operate and connects to the natural gas line of your home. These are permanent heaters that require professional installation. They should be installed in well-ventilated outdoor spaces.
Certain patio heaters utilize infrared technology to warm up nearby surfaces, rather than heating the air directly. This type is generally safer for pets and children, since it doesn't emit flames or fumes, but they might not be efficient in colder climates and aren't recommended for very large spaces. Additionally, it is important to have a carbon monoxide detector near any patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emission and allow you to put it out before it can cause a fire or health hazard.
Maintenance
Clean and regularly inspect heaters for your patio regularly. It is essential to ensure that the gas line does not have a clog and that all components are functioning properly. It is also important to ensure that the propane tank isn't full or empty. This can cause the heater to operate inefficiently and could be hazardous. The burner, orifices and the pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. All openings including the venturi for the burner must be kept free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel of the patio heater will not "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions can cause brown deposits that need to be cleaned frequently.
Gas patio heaters are extremely powerful and can quickly warm a large area depending on the model. They are perfect for outdoor areas that are easily moved around and are generally more expensive than electric heaters. They require a natural gas or propane fuel source and should be used in well-ventilated areas.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular due to the fact that they are lightweight and easy to refill. They are great for gazebos, pergolas and other outdoor spaces that are covered. They are cheaper than the other two types of patio heaters however they do produce fumes and may be an ignition hazard if they are not properly maintained.
The regulator or gas hose is the connecting part between the propane tank and the burner unit. It is important to replace the gas hose on a regular basis to avoid damage and leaks. The gas regulator needs to be replaced every 10 years or so as well, regardless of whether there's obvious damage to the device. This is especially crucial when changing from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater will not remain lit. This is usually caused by the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. It is usually a simple fix by taking off the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters burn very efficiently and quickly. They are also highly mobile and do not require electricity, which means they can be moved from one part of your outdoor space to another. These features make them an ideal choice for multifamily or commercial spaces.
The cleaning procedures associated with these types of heaters are simple. Make sure your propane patio heater is off and is cool to the touch prior to beginning to clean. This will ensure that you don't harming the heater. First take off the top cover and take the burner assembly apart. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol over the venturis, orifices and other components of the burner assembly. This will help remove any dust and spider webs that have accumulated.
If you've already painted the exterior of your natural gas heater, make sure you do not paint the emitter grid or lighting instructions. Also, do not paint the valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These surfaces will need to be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution or car wax at least a few times a year. This will help to protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or in areas where your outdoor space is exposed to elements.