Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters permit you to offer customers warmth outdoors long after the seasons change, and can boost the profits of your business. They require little maintenance and last for many years.
Keep the patio heater away from materials that could ignite and follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing, servicing and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters, unlike propane heaters that are portable, are directly connected to the natural gas line that runs through your home, which makes them more durable. They also heat up faster and can be used in larger areas because they can accommodate multiple pipelines. However, they require professional installation to ensure the proper size of gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters cannot be refueled with extension hoses, so they're not as portable.
In addition to determining the lines for your outdoor heater you'll also need to figure out the number of BTUs (billion British thermal units) that you'll need to heat up the space. The most efficient method to calculate this is to utilize an easy math formula that is to multiply the square area of your outdoor space by its desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the maximum number of BTUs your patio heater can produce to find out the number of units you'll need.
A patio heater can be either freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models usually have wheels that allow for easy mobility, and can also accommodate tables or any other surface under the burner head. The base is made from stainless steel with an anti-corrosive finish that wards off corrosion and rust. Wall-mount models, on the other hand, are a better choice for areas with high ceilings and are too big for freestanding models. They can be hung as high as 14 feet and come with a mounting set that includes a bracket and hose.
If you are installing a gas outdoor patio heater, you'll need to check for leaks regularly. You can detect them using a soapy water solution. You should also look for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect that there is a leak in your heater, you should have a qualified technician or plumber assess the heater and make any repairs that are required.
Apart from looking for leaks, consider whether your patio is in an area that has salt air or is near the ocean. The metal parts of the heater will corrode faster in an ocean environment. It is also recommended to install drain pans at the bottom of your gas line to reduce any sediment accumulation that may affect heater performance and safety.
Safety
Many people use patio heaters for warmth and ambience, however it's essential to take safety precautions. Install the heater in an area that is well ventilated, and keep it away from children and pets and examine the heater on a regular basis for signs of wear or damage. Propane or natural gas patio heaters are designed to be used in outdoor areas as they release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater is powered by tanks for fuel that need to be replenished or replaced every now and then. These tanks can be refilled at many gas stations as well as convenience stores. When not in use, it is essential to store the tank properly. It poses an hazard to fire and should never be kept in a room that is not near other items that can ignite. When not in use the propane tank must be closed and the valve should be shut to stop leaks.
Propane patio heaters are unstable and can tip over if not placed on a level surface. Set the heaters on an even surface and secure them using bungee cords, heat-resistant ties or other means to prevent them from falling. Standing heaters are also more prone to tip over when winds blow, which is why they should be secured using weights to help prevent this.
Some people prefer a natural gas patio heater, which connects to the home's natural gas line and is more affordable to run than propane. They are also more durable systems that require professional installation and should be placed in open, well-ventilated outdoor areas.
Some patio heaters heat nearby surfaces by using infrared instead of directly heating the air. This type of heater is generally safe for pets and children as it doesn't produce any flames or fumes, but they might not be efficient in colder climates and aren't recommended for very large spaces. It's also crucial to install a carbon monoxide alarm close to outdoor heaters that use infrared technology. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions, and provide you the chance to remove the source before it becomes a health or fire risk.
Maintenance
The heaters on patios should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. This is essential to ensure that the gas line is not clogged and that all parts of the heater function correctly. It is also important to make sure that the propane tank is not full or empty. This could cause the heater to operate inefficiently, and it could be dangerous. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. All openings, including the burner venturi, should be kept free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater won't be rusty, however different atmospheric conditions can cause brown deposits. These must periodically be washed off.
Gas patio heaters are very powerful and can quickly warm up a large area depending on the model. They are great for outdoor areas and can be moved easily. They are usually more expensive than electric heaters. They require a natural gas or propane fuel source and should be utilized in areas that are well ventilated.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular because they are portable and easy to refill. Fireplaces And Stoves are ideal for pergolas, gazebos and other covered outdoor areas. They are cheaper than the other two kinds of patio heaters but they do produce fumes and could be a fire hazard if not properly maintained.
The gas hose, also known as a regulator, is the piece that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. It is essential to replace the gas hose on a regular basis to avoid leaks and damage. The gas regulator should be replaced every 10 years or so as well, regardless of whether there is obvious damage to the part. This is especially crucial when switching from one propane cylinder size to another.
The most frequent issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame will not keep burning. This is usually caused by the thermocouple moving too far away from the pilot light. This is typically an easy fix. Take off the access panel, and use pliers to gently squeeze both components closer to each other.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are very efficient and clean burning. They also rapidly heat up. They are also highly mobile and don't require electricity, which means you can move them from one area of your outdoor space to another. These attributes make them an ideal option for multi-family or commercial spaces.
The cleaning methods associated with these types of heaters are quite simple. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater is turned off and cool to a comfortable temperature. This will prevent you from harming the unit. First remove the top cover and then disassemble the burner assembly. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol over the venturis of the orifices, the burner, and other parts of the burner assembly. This will help to remove any spider webs and dust that have built up.
If you've painted the exterior of your natural gas heater be sure not to paint the emitter grid or the lighting instructions. Also, do not paint the valve or control knob or the LP Cylinder. These surfaces will need to be cleaned using water and soap solution or car wax at least a few times per year. This will help protect the finish and ensure that it looks new. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or in outdoor areas that is exposed to elements.