Natural Gas Patio Heaters

Natural gas patio heaters can help you increase profits by giving customers the ability to stay warm outside even after the weather has changed. They require little maintenance and last for many years.

Follow all the directions from the manufacturer regarding testing, maintenance and lighting. A certified technician should fix any leaks.

Installation

Unlike propane models, natural gas patio heaters are connected directly to the natural gas line in your home and are therefore more stable than portable models. They also heat more quickly and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple pipes. However they require professional installation to ensure the proper size of gas lines. Additionally, natural gas patio heaters aren't as transportable than propane heaters since they can't be refueled using extension hoses.

In addition to sizing the lines for your patio heater you'll also need to figure out the amount of BTUs (billion british thermal units) that you'll need to heat up the space. To determine this you can make use of a simple math formula by multiplying the size of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the maximum amount of BTUs your patio heater can produce to find out the number of units you'll require.

A patio heater can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models typically come with wheels for mobility and can accommodate tables or any other surface under the burner head. The base is made of tough stainless steel with an anti-corrosion finish to ward off corrosion and rust. The wall-mount model is a better option for areas that have high ceilings or are too big to use freestanding models. They can be hung up to 14 feet in the air and include mounting kits that include a bracket, quick couplers, hoses and a shut off valves.

When you install a gas outdoor patio heater you'll need to check for leaks frequently. A soapy water solution could be used to detect leaks, and you must be looking for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect that there is leaks in your heater, have an experienced plumber or technician assess the heater and make any necessary repairs.

Aside from checking for leaks, you should consider whether your patio is located in an area that has salt air or is close to the ocean. The parts made of metal in the heater will corrode faster in a sea environment. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to prevent any sediment accumulation. This can affect heater performance and safety.

Safety

Many people opt to use patio heaters for comfort and ambiance, but it's essential to take some safety precautions. Place the heater in an area that is well ventilated, away from children and pets, and inspect the heater frequently for signs of wear or damage. Propane or natural gas patio heaters are designed to be used outdoors, as they release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide if inhaled.

A propane-powered patio heater has a fuel tank that must be refilled or replaced every now and then. The majority of pyramid gas patio heater stations and convenience shops can refill these tanks. It is important to store the tank properly when not in use because it's a fire risk and should not be kept inside or in close proximity to other objects that are flammable. The propane tank should also be capped when not in use and the valve closed to prevent leaks.

Propane patio heaters can be unstable and can fall over if they are not placed on a stable surface. To reduce the risk, place standing heaters on an even surface and 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 winds blow, so they should be secured with weights to prevent this.

Some people prefer natural gas fire patio heater patio heaters, which connects to the home's natural gas line and is more affordable to run than propane. These are also more permanent systems that require professional installation and should be located in open, well-ventilated outdoor areas.

Some patio heaters employ infrared technology that heats the surrounding surfaces instead of heating the air directly. This kind of heater is generally safer around kids and pets, because it doesn't release smoke or flames, however they may not be effective in colder climates and aren't recommended for large areas. Additionally, it is vital to have a carbon monoxide detector close to any patio heaters that use infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and provide you with the opportunity to extinguish it before it causes an encroachment or health risk.

Maintenance

The heaters on patios should be inspected and cleaned regularly. This is necessary to ensure that the best gas patio heater line isn't blocked and that all the parts of the heater are operating properly. Also, ensure that the propane tank does not have a full or empty level. This could cause the heater to function inefficiently, which could be dangerous. The burner, orifices and pilot tube must be clean and free of carbon deposits. The venturi for the burner as well as all other openings should be kept free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater won't get rusty, but the different atmospheric conditions can cause brown deposits. These must periodically be cleaned.

Gas patio heaters are powerful and can quickly warm up a large area depending on the model. They are perfect for outdoor spaces that can be easily moved around and are generally more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by natural gas or propane and are recommended for areas with good ventilation.

Propane patio heaters are the most well-known type because they are highly portable and easily refilled. They are ideal for gazebos, pergolas and other outdoor areas that are covered. They are less expensive than the other two types of patio heater natural Gas heaters however they emit fumes and may be dangerous to fire if not maintained properly.

The gas hose, also known as a regulator, is the component that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. It is essential to replace the hose regularly to avoid leaks and damage. Gas regulators should also be replaced approximately every 10 years, regardless of visible damage. This is especially important when changing from one size of propane gas cylinder to another.

The flame of a propane patio heater will not stay lit. This is usually due to the thermocouple moving far away from the pilot light. This is usually an easy fix by taking off the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer.

Cleaning

Natural gas patio heaters are clean burning and heat up very quickly. They are also highly mobile and don't require electricity, which means you can move them from one part of your outdoor space to another. These features make them an ideal choice for commercial or multifamily residential spaces.

They are easy to clean. Make sure your propane patio heater is off and is cool to the touch prior to beginning to clean. This will prevent you from accidently damaging the heater. First remove the top cover, then take the burner assembly apart. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol into the orifices and burner venturis that are located inside the burner assembly. This will help remove dust and spider webs that have built up.

If your natural gas heater has a painted surface make sure you do not paint the emitter grid and lighting instructions, or the valve or control knob area or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned using water and soap, or car wax at least once times a year. This will help to protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or in areas where your outdoor space is exposed to elements.