Gas Fired Patio Heaters

Gas fired patio heaters are becoming more popular for residential and commercial outdoor areas. They are typically freestanding and have a reflector shield or dome that directs radiant warmth downward.

They are usually connected to a gas line and eliminate the requirement for propane tanks, thus reducing operating costs. However they aren't as portable than propane models, and are susceptible to damage by strong winds.

Efficiency

Patio heaters are renowned for extending outdoor dining areas into the cold months, but they can also pose dangers to fire if they are not employed in a safe manner. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) warn that patio heaters can be dangerous when they are not maintained, installed or operated correctly. They can cause fires, carbon-monoxide poisoning, or even death. The good news is that there are a few easy steps you can take to prevent these dangers.

First, check the heater's ventilation. Propane and natural gas patio heaters release dangerous carbon monoxide. You must never use them in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Don't store tanks of propane inside. Propane tanks can only be used the time they are needed before they begin to rust. Instead, ensure that you have a cover for your propane tank, or that your heater is vented when not in use.

Heat efficiency can also be influenced by the kind of fuel used and the environment. These conditions are important, because windy weather can spread heat and lower ambient temperatures require additional energy to maintain warmth.

Another aspect to consider is the design of the patio heater. This will affect its heating ability and the power it generates. Freestanding models are less efficient than models mounted. Some models are built with reflectors to help concentrate the heat and improve efficiency.

It's also crucial to test their power output prior to utilize them. This will ensure that they can offer enough heat to your space, and that you don't waste electricity or gas. For example, you may need a higher output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) if your patio is large or you want to warm up an outdoor gathering.

For restaurants, bars hotels, and other hospitality establishments The versatility of gas fired patio heaters is what makes them a preferred option. They can be powered by liquid propane or natural gas and can be plugged into standard electrical outlets. They are usually more efficient than electric patio heaters for larger spaces, as they can easily be operated via remote control or by a timer. They also have a more appealing design than other commercial heaters, making them perfect for areas that require to appear modern and stylish.

Safety

Gas-fired patio heaters are used in restaurants and at your home to provide comfort and warmth during cooler weather. To avoid injuries or fire hazards they must be operated and maintained correctly. Before you use, ensure that your heater is UL or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) registered and comes with a flame failure device that shuts off gas flow in the event that a burner tips over due to any reason.

It's also important to read the directions and warnings from the manufacturer, particularly those pertaining to fuel use. A fire extinguisher must be stored in the event of an accident. It is also recommended to have a bucket or a bucket of water as well as a class C or B extinguisher depending on the type of fuel your heater uses.

Since gas patio heaters are usually free-standing It's recommended to keep them at least a few feet away from combustible objects like tent walls, gazebos, tablecloths, paper products and decorations. Also, make sure that they are not near an air intake or in close proximity to an exit.

In addition, since these heaters are usually positioned at higher elevations to spread heat across a large area, they are heavy and prone to tipping or tilting. Consequently, it's best to secure them in a way with either sandbags or water weights to help stabilize them.

For your security, keep pets and children at least three feet away from any heater when they're in operation to avoid burns. It is also important to not leave them unattended, or turn them off when you aren't in the immediate vicinity. Only use natural gas heaters that have been approved by your local plumber and are in good condition.

Depending on the fuel source gas heater for outdoor patio patio heaters can also be affected by wind. If it's a propane model, strong winds could blow the cylinder out of its place or cause the fire to die. Natural gas or propane models that have an attached hose must be connected to an unreliable line and placed outside to minimize the risk for explosion or fire.

Comfort

Patio heaters are available in many styles and powered by different fuel sources. The best one for your home will be determined by the size of the outdoor space you want to heat, the power source available, and your preferences in terms of appearance and control.

Gas-powered patio heaters can provide more heat than other types. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, says that's one reason his restaurants primarily use pyramid and dome-top patio heaters in their New York and New Jersey locations. "The high heat output enables us to keep our customers warm while they take advantage of the outdoors in the winter months," he says.

Another consideration is the energy efficiency of gas-powered heaters. A heater with an extremely high BTU output is likely to warm an area faster and more efficiently than one with an inferior rating. A quick rule of thumb is to multiply the area of your outdoor space by 20 to determine the amount of BTUs required to heat it.

In terms of the power source propane-powered heaters are the most commonly used option for homeowners. They can be portable and use standard 20-pound propane tanks (like the ones used for your grill) that can be bought at most hardware stores. But propane-powered heaters are also known to consume more electricity than other models, which makes them less green than other fuel options.

Electric-powered heaters, on other hand, require an outlet that is plugged into an outlet for power to operate. They are also more secure than propane-powered ones, since they emit no harmful fumes or burn like gas patio heaters. Electric patio heaters are not as hot as other alternatives and are limited in the amount of heat they can produce.

Natural gas-powered heaters, on other side, are a good option for those looking to connect their patio heaters to an existing natural gas line. They require professional installation, and can be more expensive to operate than other patio heaters. But natural gas gas patio heater gas heaters produce the most consistent and fast heat of any of the three options, which may be a reason to justify the cost.

Versatility

There are a myriad of options for outdoor heating using propane. If you decide to go with a freestanding patio heater, a firepit, or a restaurant-style overhead unit, the key is to ensure that you're following the most basic safety rules. These rules can be difficult to master, especially if you are confronted with a flaming fire or hot ashes which can remain hot up to two days. However, with the right understanding, you can ensure you're using your propane patio heater in a safe manner, and maximizing its functionality.

Gas fired patio heaters are an effective and efficient way to heat larger areas. They can cover an area of up to 20 square meters. They can be operated on either natural gas or propane and, depending on the model, can be switched on and off with a remote control or scheduled by timer. They also typically require a minimum of 25% open space to allow for a regular flow of air and prevent carbon monoxide build-up which could cause fatalities in the absence of proper ventilation.

Gas patio heaters, aside from the requirement for ventilation they are generally very simple to manage and maintain. They can be installed permanently in areas that are exposed to the elements, or they can be recessed into flat roofs. They are usually fitted with an anti tilt switch that shuts the unit off when it senses that the heater is not upright.

On the other hand, wood-burning patio heaters are much more difficult to operate and can be dangerous if not operated correctly. The major issue with these types of heaters is that they require to be constantly filled with fuel, and the smoke and ash that is produced should be disposed of in a secure place. They are also much more difficult to ignite, and they can produce sparks that could ignite or cause injury.

Whatever type of patio heater you decide for, safety must be a top priority when it comes to usage and maintenance. Keep a fire extinguisher close by and remind your children to stay away from the heaters. Be aware of the temperature, and be aware of any smells that could indicate a leak - both natural gas patio heater regulator and propane have mercaptan added to them to emit a sour odor should they leak.