Patio Heater Natural Gas 101: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Natural Gas Patio Heaters Natural gas patio heaters allow you to keep your customers warm outside long after the seasons change and can increase profits. They require little maintenance and can last years. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer regarding testing, servicing and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks. Installation In contrast to propane models, natural gas patio heaters are connected directly to your home's natural gas line which makes them more durable than portable heaters. The heaters are more efficient in heating and can be put in larger areas because they can be used with multiple pipes. They require professional installation in order to ensure the correct sizing of the gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters cannot be refueled with extension hoses, therefore they are less portable. You'll also have to determine the number of BTUs you'll need to heat the space. To determine this you can utilize a simple math formula that involves multiplying the area of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that result by the maximum amount of BTUs your heater for patio use can generate to figure out the number of units you'll require. Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models typically have wheels for easy mobility and can accommodate tables or other surfaces underneath the burner head. The base is made of stainless steel and has an anti-corrosive finish that wards off corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units are an ideal choice for rooms with high ceilings, or are too large to be suitable for freestanding models. They can be installed up to 14 feet and come with a mounting kit which includes a bracket as well as hose. You'll need to check regularly for leaks before installing a patio heater. A soapy water solution can be used to identify them, and you should also look for indications of rusting or burning. If you suspect there is an issue with your heater, let an experienced technician or plumber inspect it and make any necessary repairs. In addition to checking for leaks, you must also take into consideration whether your patio is located in an area that has salt air or is near the ocean. The parts made of metal in the heater will corrode more quickly in a sea environment. It is also recommended to install drain pans at the bottom of your gas line to reduce the accumulation of sediment that could affect heater performance and safety. Safety Many people opt to use patio heaters for comfort and ambiance, however it's essential to take some safety precautions. This includes placing the heater in a well-ventilated area and ensuring it's kept away from children or pets, and regularly inspecting the heater for any signs of damage or wear. Propane and natural gas heaters for patios should be used exclusively in outdoor spaces because they emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when inhaled. A propane patio heater is equipped with an oil tank that must be periodically refilled or changed. Tanks can be refilled at most gas stations and convenience stores. It is important to store the tank properly when not in use, since it's a fire hazard and should not be kept indoors or near other flammable objects. When not in use the propane tank must be sealed and the valve should be shut to prevent leaks. Propane patio heaters can be unstable and may be prone to tipping over if not set on a stable surface. To decrease the risk, place standing heaters on an even surface and then fix them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties in order to prevent them from falling over. Standing heaters are also more prone to topple over if the wind blows, so they should be secured with weights to avoid this. Certain people prefer a natural-gas patio heater. It is less expensive to run and can be connected to the home's natural gas line. They are also more durable systems that require professional installation and should be located in open, ventilated outdoor areas. Certain patio heaters utilize infrared technology that heats the surrounding surfaces instead of heating the air directly. This kind of heater is generally safer for pets and children since it doesn't emit flames or fumes, but they may not work in warmer climates and aren't recommended for large areas. In addition, it's vital to have an infrared carbon monoxide detector close to any patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emission and give you the chance to extinguish it before it can cause a health or fire hazard. Maintenance Regularly inspect and clean patio heaters. It is essential to ensure that the gas line does not have a clog and that all parts are functioning correctly. It is also important to make sure that the propane tank is not full or empty. This can cause the heater to operate inefficiently and could be hazardous. best gas patio heater uk , orifices, and the pilot tube should be free of carbon deposits. The venturi for the burner as well as all other openings should be kept clear of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater won't be rusty, however different atmospheric conditions can leave brown deposits. These must regularly be cleaned. Gas patio heaters can be very powerful, and depending on the model, they can swiftly warm a large area. They are perfect for outdoor spaces and are easy to move. They are generally more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by propane or natural gas and are recommended for areas with good ventilation. Propane patio heaters are the most popular due to the fact that they are easily refillable and portable. Ideal for gazebos, covered outdoor areas and pergolas. They are less expensive 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 gas hose, or regulator, is the component that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. To avoid 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 visible damage to the component. This is especially important when changing from one size propane cylinder to another. The most frequent issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame does not remain lit. The thermocouple is usually too far from the pilot light. This is usually an easy fix by removing the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer together. Cleaning Natural gas patio heaters burn very efficiently and quickly. They are highly mobile, and do not require power sources. You can move them around your outdoor space. These features make them a perfect choice for commercial or multifamily properties. The cleaning methods associated with these types of heaters are easy. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater is turned off and is cool to a comfortable temperature. This will prevent you from accidentally causing damage to the unit. Remove the top cover, then take the burner assembly apart. Make use of a cotton swab rub alcohol on the venturis and orifices which are inside the burner assembly. This will help in removing dust and spider webs that have accumulated. If your natural gas heater has a painted exterior, make sure you don't paint the emitter grid and lighting instructions, or the valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These surfaces need to be cleaned with mild soap and water or car wax at least a few time per year. This will protect the finish, and ensure that it looks new. This is especially important in high traffic areas or in areas where your outdoor space is exposed to the elements.