Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters allow you to provide warmth to customers outdoors long after the seasons change and can increase profits. They require minimal maintenance and can last for years.
Keep the heater in a safe place from any flammable materials and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding testing, servicing, and lighting. A certified technician in service should repair any leaks.
Installation
In contrast to propane models, natural gas patio heaters are linked directly to the natural gas line of your home and are therefore more stable than portable models. They also heat up faster and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple piping lines. However they require a professional installation to ensure the proper sizing of gas lines. Additionally, natural gas patio heaters tend to be less portable than propane heaters because they can't be refueled by extension hoses.
You'll also need to determine the amount of BTUs you'll require to heat the area. The most efficient method to calculate this is to employ a simple math formula that is to multiply the square area of your outdoor space by its desired temperature increase. Then, divide that result by the highest number of BTUs your patio heater could produce to find out the number of units you'll require.
A patio heater can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models are usually equipped with wheels that allow for easy movement and can accommodate tables or other surfaces underneath the burner head. The base is constructed of tough stainless steel with an anti-corrosion finish to ward off corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units, on the other on the other hand, are a good option for homes with high ceilings and are too large for freestanding models. They can be hung up to 14 feet in the air and include a mounting kit that includes a bracket as well as quick couplers, hoses and a shut off valve.
You'll need to check regularly for leaks prior to installing a patio heater. They can be detected using a soapy water solution. You should also check for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect a leak, you should have an experienced technician or plumber examine the heater and make repairs if necessary.
In addition to looking for leaks, you must consider whether your patio is located in a region with salt air or near the ocean. This could cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode at a higher rate than the parts in non-ocean areas. Install a drain pan at the bottom of the gas line to eliminate any sediment accumulation. This can affect heater performance and safety.
Safety
Many people make use of patio heaters to provide warmth and ambiance, however it's important to remember to take certain safety precautions. Set the heater in an area that is well ventilated, and keep it away from pets and children and check the heater regularly for signs of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should only be only used in outdoor areas because they release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, if inhaled.
A propane patio heater comes with tanks for fuel that need to be periodically refilled or changed. Most gas stations and convenience shops can refill these tanks. It's important to store the tank properly when it's not in use as it's a fire hazard and should never be stored indoors or near other flammable objects. The propane tank should also be sealed when not in use, and the valve closed to keep leaks from occurring.
Propane patio heaters are prone to instability and could slide over if not placed on a solid base. To reduce the chance of this happening, place standing heaters on a level surface and fix them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties to prevent them from falling over. Standing heaters are also more prone to topple over if winds blow, which is why they should be secured with weights to help prevent this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters, which connects to a home's natural gas line and is cheaper to operate than propane. These are permanent units, and require professional installation. They should be placed in well-ventilated outdoor spaces.
Certain patio heaters utilize infrared technology that heats nearby surfaces rather than heating the air directly. This kind of heater is generally safer for pets and children, because it doesn't release flames or fumes. However, they might not be efficient in warmer climates and aren't recommended for large areas. It's also crucial to install a carbon monoxide alarm near patio heaters using infrared technologies. This will alert you of any harmful carbon monoxide emission and provide you with the opportunity to extinguish it before it can cause a health or fire hazard.
Maintenance
The heaters on patios should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. This is necessary to ensure that the gas line is not blocked and that all the parts of the heater function correctly. It is also essential to ensure that the propane tank isn't full or empty. This can cause the heater to operate inefficiently and pose a risk to the health of the user. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. The burner venturi and the other openings must be free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater will not be rusty, however different atmospheric conditions can leave brown deposits. These will need to regularly be cleaned.
Gas patio heaters are powerful and can quickly warm an extensive area, depending on the model. They are great for outdoor areas that are easily moved around and are typically 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 kind due to the fact that they are mobile and easily filled. Ideal for gazebos and covered outdoor areas, as well as pergolas. These patio heaters aren't as expensive, however they produce fumes and can be an ignition risk in the event that they are not maintained correctly.
The gas hose, or regulator, is the part that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. To prevent damage and leaks it is essential to replace your hose on a regular basis. The gas regulator needs to be replaced every 10 years or so, regardless of whether there is any obvious damage to the device. This is particularly important when converting from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater won't remain lit. The thermocouple can be too far away from the pilot light. This is usually simple to fix. Remove the access panel and use pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer to each other.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters burn efficiently and quickly. They are also extremely mobile and don't need an electrical source, so you can move them from one area of your outdoor space to another. These features make them an ideal choice for multifamily or commercial spaces.
The cleaning methods associated with these heaters are easy. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been turned off and is cooled to the touch. This will help you avoid harming the unit. First remove patio heater gas regulator and then remove the burner assembly. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol on the venturis, orifices, and other parts of the burner assembly. This will help remove dust and spider webs that have accumulated.
If you've already painted the surface of your natural gas heater, be sure not to paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions. Also, don't paint the control knob or valve or the LP tank. These surfaces will need to be cleaned using water and soap solution or car wax a few times a year. This will protect the finish and ensure that it looks new. This is especially important in areas with a lot of traffic or if you have outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.