Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters can boost your profits by giving customers the ability to stay warm outside, even when the seasons change. They require little maintenance and last for many years.
Keep the patio heater away from materials that could ignite and follow all manufacturer instructions for testing, servicing and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Unlike propane models, natural gas patio heaters are plugged directly to the natural gas line of your home and are therefore more stable than portable heaters. They also heat up faster and can be used in larger areas because they can accommodate multiple piping lines. They require professional installation in order to ensure the correct size of the gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters can't be refueled with extension hoses, so they're not as portable.
You'll also have to determine the amount of BTUs you'll require to heat your space. The best method for calculating this is to use an easy math formula by multiplying the square area of your outdoor space by its desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the highest number of BTUs your patio heater could generate to figure out how many units you'll need.
A patio heater is freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models are usually fitted with wheels for easy movement and can accommodate tables or other items underneath the burner head. The base is made of durable stainless steel with a protective finish to resist corrosion and rust. The wall-mount model is an ideal choice for rooms with high ceilings, or are too large to accommodate freestanding models. They can be hung up to 14 feet up in the air and include a mounting kit that includes a bracket as well as quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valve.
When installing a gas outdoor patio heater you'll need to check for leaks regularly. You can spot them with a soapy water solution. You should also check for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect that there is a leak in your heater, let an experienced technician or plumber inspect it and make any necessary repairs.
It is not enough to check for leaks, but also consider whether your patio is near the ocean or located in an area where there is salt air. This can cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode at a higher rate than the parts in non-ocean settings. It is also recommended that you install a drain pan at the bottom of your gas line in order to prevent any sediment accumulation that may affect heater performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are popular due to their comfort and ambiance. However, it is essential to take safety precautions. This includes placing the heater in a well-ventilated area, making sure it's away from children or pets, and regularly inspecting the heater for indications of wear or damage. Natural gas or propane patio heaters are designed to be used in outdoor areas as they emit harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater has an oil tank that has to be refilled or replaced from time to time. A majority of gas stations and convenience shops can refill tanks. It is important to store the tank properly when not in use since it's a fire hazard and should never be stored inside or in close proximity to other flammable objects. When not in use the propane tank must be closed and the valve should be closed to prevent leaks.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and could slide over if not placed on a stable base. To minimize the chance of this happening, place standing heaters on an even surface and secure them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties in order to prevent them from falling over. Standing heaters are also more likely to tip over when the wind blows, so they should be secured with weights to avoid this.
Certain people prefer a natural-gas patio heater. It is more affordable to run and can be connected to the gas line in your home. These are also more permanent systems that require professional installation and should be placed in open, well-ventilated outdoor spaces.
Some patio heaters warm nearby surfaces using infrared rather than directly heating the air. This kind of heater is safer for pets and children as it doesn't emit fumes or flames. However, they may not be suitable for warmer climates or for large spaces. fireplacesandstoves 's also crucial to install a carbon monoxide alarm near outdoor heaters that use infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and provide you with the opportunity to eliminate it before it can cause an encroachment or health risk.
Maintenance
Patio heaters must be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. It is essential to ensure that the gas line does not have a clog and that all components are working properly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a empty or full level. This can make the heater perform poorly, and could lead to danger. The burner, orifices and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. The burner venturi and the other openings must be kept free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater won't be rusty, however different atmospheric conditions can leave brown deposits. These will need to periodically be washed off.
Gas patio heaters are powerful, and based on the model, they can swiftly heat up a large area. They are perfect for outdoor spaces and are easy to move. They are usually more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by propane or natural gas and are best used in areas with adequate ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular due to the fact that they are easily refillable and portable. They are perfect for gazebos or covered outdoor areas as well as pergolas. These patio heaters aren't as expensive, but they emit fumes and could pose a fire risk when they are not maintained properly.
The gas hose or regulator is the part that connects the propane tank and the burner unit. To prevent leaks and damage, it is important to replace your hose frequently. The gas regulator should be replaced every 10 years or so regardless of whether there is visible damage to the component. This is especially crucial when changing from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The most frequent issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame will not keep burning. The thermocouple is usually too far from the pilot light. This is usually an easy fix by taking off the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two parts closer together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters burn easily and quickly. They are also highly mobile and don't require a power source so you can move them from one area of your outdoor space to another. These characteristics make them an ideal choice for multi-family or commercial spaces.
The cleaning procedures for these heaters are easy. Before you begin cleaning, ensure that the propane patio heater has been turned off and is cool to the touch. This prevents you from accidentally causing damage to the unit. Remove the top cover and then take the burner assembly apart. Use a cotton swab and rub alcohol on the venturis, orifices, and other parts of 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, ensure that you do not paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions, the valve or control knob area or the cylinder for LP. These surfaces will need to be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution or car wax at least a few times per year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking like new. This is especially important in high traffic areas or in areas where your outdoor space is exposed to elements.