Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters allow you to keep your customers warm outside even after the seasons change and can boost the profitability of your business. They require little maintenance and can last for a long time.
Keep the patio heater away from combustible materials and follow all manufacturer’s guidelines for testing, servicing and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Contrary to propane models gas patio heaters are connected directly to your home’s natural gas line, making them more stable than their portable counterparts. The heaters heat up faster and can be installed in larger spaces due to the fact that they can be used with multiple piping systems. They require professional installation in order to ensure the correct size of the gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters aren’t able to be refueled using extension hoses, so they’re not as portable.
In addition to determining the lines for your heater in the patio, you’ll need to determine the amount of BTUs (billion British thermal units) that you’ll need to heat up the space. To calculate 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 patio heater could generate to figure out how many units you’ll need.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models usually have wheels that allow for easy mobility and can be able to accommodate tables or other surfaces underneath the burner head. The base is constructed of rugged stainless steel, and has a protective finish that helps to prevent corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units, on the other on the other hand, are a good option for homes with high ceilings and that are too big for freestanding models. They can be mounted as high as 14 feet and come with a mounting set which includes a bracket as well as hose.
You’ll need to check regularly for leaks prior to installing a patio heater. A soapy water solution can be used to identify leaks, and you should be looking for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect a leak, you should have an expert technician or plumber inspect the heater and make repairs if required.
It is not enough to just look for leaks but also consider whether your cheap patio gas is close to the ocean or is located in an area with salt air. This could cause the metallic parts of the heater to corrode faster rate than the parts in non-ocean areas. It is also recommended to install drain pans at the bottom of your gas line in order to prevent the accumulation of sediment that could hinder the heater’s performance and safety.
Safety
Many people choose to use patio heaters for warmth and ambiance, but it’s crucial to take certain safety precautions. Set the heater in a place that is well ventilated, away from pets and children, and inspect the heater frequently for signs of wear or damage. Propane or natural gas patio heaters are only to be used in outdoor areas, as they release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when breathed in.
A propane patio heater is equipped with a fuel tank which must be periodically refilled or changed. A majority of gas stations and convenience shops can refill tanks. When not in use, it is crucial to store the tank properly. It is an ignition risk and should never be stored indoors or close to other items that can ignite. When not in use the propane tank must be closed and the valve shut to prevent leaks.
Propane patio heaters are prone to instability and can fall over if not placed on a solid base. To reduce the chance of this happening, place standing heaters on an even surface and then anchor them using bungee cords or heat-resistant ties to prevent them from falling over. Standing heaters are also more prone to tip over when the wind blows, so they should be secured with weights to avoid this.
Some people prefer a natural gas patio heater that is connected to the home’s natural gas line and is less expensive to operate than propane. These are permanent systems, which require a professional installation. They should be placed in areas that are well ventilated.
Some patio heaters employ infrared technology to warm up nearby surfaces, rather than heating the air directly. This type of heater is generally safe for pets and children, as it doesn’t produce any flames or fumes, but they may not be effective in colder climates and are not recommended for large areas. It’s also crucial to install a carbon monoxide alarm close to patio heaters using infrared technologies. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions, and provide you the chance to remove the source before it turns into a fire or health risk.
Maintenance
Clean and regularly inspect patio outdoor gas heater heaters. It is important to check that the gas line doesn’t have a blockage and that all parts are functioning correctly. It is also essential to make sure that the propane tank is not completely empty or filled to the top. This could cause the heater to perform poorly, and could pose a risk. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube should be clean and free of carbon deposits. All openings, including the burner venturi must be cleaned and free of dirt and spider webs. The stainless steel used on the patio heater natural gas (similar internet page) heater will not “rust,” but varying atmospheric conditions can leave brown deposits that will need to be cleaned regularly.
Gas patio heaters can be very strong, and based on the model, they can quickly warm a large area. They are perfect for outdoor areas and are easy to move. They are typically more expensive than electric heaters. They require propane or natural garden gas patio heater fuel source and are best used in well-ventilated areas.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular type because they are highly portable and easily filled. They are ideal for gazebos, covered outdoor areas and pergolas. They are cheaper than the other two kinds of patio heaters, however they do produce gas and can be an ignition hazard if they are not maintained properly.
The gas hose, or regulator, is the piece that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. To avoid damage and leaks it is crucial to replace your hose frequently. 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 especially important when switching from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater will not stay lit. The thermocouple can be 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 parts closer together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters burn efficiently and quickly. They are very mobile and do not require a power source. You can move them around your outdoor space. These characteristics make them an ideal option for commercial or multifamily residential spaces.
They are easy to clean. Ensure that your propane patio heater is turned off and is cool to the touch prior to starting cleaning. This will prevent you from accidentally causing damage to the unit. Take off the top cover, then remove the burner assembly. Use a cotton swab and rub alcohol on the venturis, orifices and other parts of the burner assembly. This will get rid of any spider webs or dust.
If you’ve painted the exterior of your natural gas heater be sure not to paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions. Also, do not paint the valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned with water and soap solution or car wax at least a few times per year. This will help to protect the finish and keep it looking fresh. This is particularly important in areas with high traffic or in areas with an outdoor space that is exposed to the weather.