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 last for many years.
Keep the heater of your patio away from combustible materials and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding testing, servicing, and lighting. A certified technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters in contrast to propane-powered models that are portable, are directly connected to the natural gas line that runs through your home, which makes them more stable. They also heat faster and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple pipes. However they require a professional installation to ensure proper sizing of gas lines. Additionally, small patio gas are less transportable than propane heaters since they can't be refueled using extension hoses.
You'll also need to calculate the amount of BTUs you'll require to heat your space. The best method for calculating this is to utilize an easy math formula by multiplying the square area of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the maximum amount of BTUs your heater for patio use can produce to find out how many units you'll need.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models typically have wheels for mobility, and can also accommodate tables or any other surface beneath the burner head. The base is made of tough stainless steel and features an anti-corrosion finish to ward off corrosion and rust. gas patio heaters near me -mount unit is an ideal choice for rooms with high ceilings or are too large to accommodate freestanding models. They can be put up to 14 feet high and come with an installation kit that includes a bracket and quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valve.
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 be looking for signs of burning or rusting. If you suspect that there is a leak, you should have an experienced technician or plumber inspect the heater and make repairs if required.
You should not only check for leaks but also consider whether your patio is near the ocean or located in an area that has salt air. 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 minimize the accumulation of any sediment that can hinder the heater's performance and safety.
Safety
Many people choose to make use of patio heaters to provide warmth and ambience, however it's essential to take some safety precautions. These include placing the heater in a well-ventilated area, making sure it's away from pets or children, and regularly inspecting the heater for signs of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas heaters for patios should be only used in outdoor areas since they can emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, if inhaled.
A propane patio heater is equipped with a fuel tank which must be regularly replenished or changed. Most convenience stores and gas stations can refill these tanks. It is important to store the tank in a safe manner when not in use, since it's a fire hazard and should not be stored indoors or near other objects that are flammable. When not in use, the propane tank should 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. Set the heaters on a level surface and secure with bungee cords, heat-resistant tie or other methods to stop them from falling. Standing heaters may also tip over more easily when there is an extremely strong wind, therefore weights should be used to prevent this.
Some people prefer using a natural-gas patio heater. It is less expensive to run and is connected to the gas line in your home. These are permanent systems, which require a professional installation. They should be installed in areas that are well ventilated.
Certain patio heaters utilize infrared technology to warm nearby surfaces, rather than heating the air directly. This type is generally safer for pets and children, as it doesn't produce any flames or fumes, but they may not work in colder climates and are not recommended for large areas. It is also essential to install a carbon monoxide alarm close to the patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emission and provide you with the opportunity to eliminate it before it becomes an encroachment or health risk.
Maintenance
Patio heaters must be inspected and cleaned regularly. This is necessary to ensure that the gas line is not clogged and that all parts of the heater function correctly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a empty or full level. This could cause the heater to perform poorly, and could be dangerous. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. The burner venturi and all other openings should be kept free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel of the patio heater won't "rust," but varying conditions in the weather can create brown deposits that need to be rinsed off frequently.
Gas patio heaters are extremely powerful and can quickly warm up a large area, depending on the model. They are great for outdoor spaces that can be easily moved around, and are usually more expensive than electric heaters. They require propane or natural gas fuel source and are best utilized in areas that are well ventilated.
Propane patio heaters have become the most popular due to the fact that they are portable and easy to refill. They are great for pergolas, gazebos and other outdoor areas that are covered. They are less expensive than the other two types of patio heaters however they produce gas and can be an ignition hazard if they are 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 prevent leaks and damage. The gas regulator needs to be replaced every 10 years or so regardless of whether there's obvious damage to the part. This is particularly important when changing from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater will not remain lit. This is usually due to the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. This is typically an easy fix. Remove the access panel, and use pliers to gently squeeze both components closer together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are very clean burning and rapidly heat up. They are also very mobile and do not require a power source so they can be moved from one part of your outdoor space to another. These attributes make them a great option for commercial or multifamily spaces.
They are simple to clean. Make sure that your propane patio heater is off and is cool to the touch prior starting cleaning. This prevents you from accidently damaging the heater. Take off the top cover, then disassemble burner assembly. Make use of a cotton swab rub alcohol into the venturis and orifices that are inside of the burner assembly. This will get rid of any spider webs or dust.
If you have painted the surface of your natural gas heater, ensure that you do not paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions. Also, don't paint the valve or control knob or the LP tank. These surfaces should be cleaned with mild soap and water or car wax at least a few times per year. This will help to protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is especially important in high traffic areas or if your outdoor space is exposed to elements.