Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters allow you to offer customers warmth outside even after the seasons change and can improve profits. They require very little maintenance and last for many years.
Keep the heater of your patio away from combustible materials and follow all manufacturer instructions regarding testing, servicing, and lighting. A certified technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Unlike propane models, natural gas patio heaters are plugged directly to your home's natural gas line which makes them more durable than their portable counterparts. They also heat more quickly and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple pipelines. However they require a professional installation to ensure the proper size of gas lines. In addition natural gas patio heaters aren't as transportable than propane heaters since they can't be refueled by extension hoses.
In addition to sizing the lines for your heater in the patio, you'll need to determine the amount of BTUs (billion British thermal units) you'll require to heat up the space. To determine this, you can use a simple math formula by multiplying the size of your outdoor space with the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the maximum number of BTUs your heater for patio use can produce to determine the number of units you'll need.
A patio heater is freestanding or wall-mounted. gas patio heater regulator come with wheels that allow for easy mobility and can accommodate a table or other surface beneath the burner head. The base is constructed of stainless steel with a protective finish that resists corrosion and rust. The wall-mount model is a better option for areas that have high ceilings or are too large to accommodate freestanding models. They can be put up to 14 feet high and come with a mounting kit that includes a bracket, quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valves.
When installing a gas patio heater for your outdoor space, you'll have to look for leaks frequently. You can spot them with a soapy water solution. Also, look for signs of rusting or burning. If you suspect there is a leak in your heater, let a qualified technician or plumber inspect it and make any repairs that are required.
You should not only check for leaks, but also think about whether your patio is close to the ocean or in an area with salt air. The metal parts of the heater will corrode faster in a marine environment. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to prevent the amount of sediment that accumulates. This can affect heater performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are adored for their comfort and ambience. However, it's important to take safety precautions. Place the heater in a location that is well ventilated, and keep it away from children and pets and check the heater frequently for signs of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas heaters for patios should be only used in outdoor areas since they can release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when inhaled.
A propane patio heater has tanks for fuel that need to be replenished or replaced regularly. Most gas stations and convenience shops can refill these tanks. When not in use, it is crucial to properly store the tank. It is an hazard to fire and should never be stored indoors or close to other flammable items. When not in use the propane tank needs to be capped and the valve shut to stop leaks.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and can fall over if they are not placed on a stable surface. To minimize the chance of falling, put standing heaters on an even surface and then secure them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties to keep them from falling over. Standing heaters can also topple over more easily when there is an extremely strong wind, therefore weights are recommended to stop this.
Some people prefer to use natural-gas patio heaters. It is less expensive to run and can be connected to the natural gas line of your home. These are also more permanent systems that require professional installation and should be located in open, well-ventilated outdoor spaces.
Some patio heaters heat the surrounding surfaces with infrared rather than directly heating the air. This type is generally safer for pets and children, as it doesn't produce any smoke or flames, however they may not work in warmer climates and aren't recommended for large areas. Additionally, it is important to have an infrared carbon monoxide detector near any patio heaters that use infrared technology. This will alert you of any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and allow you to extinguish it before it causes an encroachment or health risk.
Maintenance
Patio heaters must be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. This is necessary to ensure that the gas line is not clogged and that all parts of the heater are working correctly. Also, ensure that the propane tank does not have a empty or full level. This can make the heater perform poorly, and 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 dirt and spider webs. The stainless steel on the patio heater won't "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions can create brown deposits that require cleaning frequently.
Gas patio heaters are powerful, and depending on the model, they can quickly warm a large area. They are great for outdoor spaces and are able to be moved easily. They are generally more expensive than electric heaters. They require propane or natural gas fuel source and are best utilized in areas that are well ventilated.
Propane patio heaters have become the most popular due to the fact that they are portable and easy to refill. They are ideal for gazebos or covered outdoor areas as well as pergolas. They are cheaper than the other two kinds of patio heaters but they emit fumes and could be an ignition hazard if they are not maintained properly.
The gas hose or regulator is the connecting part between the propane tank and the burner unit. To prevent damage and leaks it is crucial to replace your hose regularly. Gas regulators should also be replaced at least every 10 years, regardless of any visible damage. This is especially important when changing from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The most frequent issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame does not remain lit. This is usually caused by the thermocouple moving far away from the pilot light. This is usually a simple fix by getting rid of the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are very green burning and can rapidly heat up. They are also very mobile and don't need electricity, which means they can be moved from one part of your outdoor space to another. These attributes make them an ideal choice for commercial or multifamily residential spaces.
They are easy to clean. Make sure your propane patio heater is off and is cool to the touch before beginning to clean. This will help you avoid accidentally damaging the heater. First, remove the top cover, then take the burner assembly apart. Use a cotton swab to rub alcohol onto the venturis and orifices that are located inside the burner assembly. This will help to remove any spider webs and dust that have built up.
If your natural gas heater has a painted surface make sure that you don't paint the emitter grid, lighting instructions, valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution or car wax a couple of times a year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or an outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.