Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters can help you boost your profits by providing customers with warmth outside, even when the seasons have changed. They require very little maintenance and can last for years.
Follow all the directions from the manufacturer regarding testing, servicing and lighting. A certified service technician should repair any leaks.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters unlike portable propane models are directly connected to the natural gas line inside your home, which makes them more stable. The heaters are more efficient in heating and can be placed in larger spaces due to the fact that they can accommodate multiple piping systems. They require professional installation in order to ensure the proper size of the gas lines. In addition natural gas patio heaters tend to be less transportable than propane heaters since they can't be refueled by extension hoses.
You'll also need to calculate the number of BTUs you'll require to heat your space. The best way to calculate this is to utilize a simple math formula by multiplying the square area of your outdoor space by its desired temperature increase. Divide the result by the maximum BTUs that your patio heater can produce to determine how many units you will need.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models usually have wheels for easy mobility and can be able to accommodate tables or other surfaces beneath the burner head. The base is constructed of tough stainless steel, and has a protective finish to resist corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units, on the other side, are a great option for rooms with high ceilings and that are too big for freestanding models. They can be put up to 14 feet high and come with a mounting kit that includes a bracket, quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valve.
You'll need to check regularly for leaks before installing an outdoor heater. You can spot them with a soapy water solution. You should also look for signs of rusting or burning. If you suspect a leak, you should have a plumber or qualified technician inspect the heater and make repairs if necessary.
It is not enough to check for leaks but also consider whether your patio is near the ocean or is located in an area that has salt air. The metal parts of the heater will corrode more quickly in an ocean environment. Install a drain pan at the bottom of the gas line to prevent the accumulation of sediment. This could impact heater performance and safety.
Safety
Many people opt to use patio heaters for warmth and ambience, however it's essential to take safety precautions. Install the heater in a location that is well ventilated, away from children and pets and check the heater regularly for signs of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas heaters for patios should be used exclusively in outdoor spaces because they release harmful gases like carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane patio heater comes with an oil tank that must be regularly replenished or changed. Most gas stations and convenience shops can refill these tanks. When not in use, it is essential to properly store the tank. It is an ignition risk and should not be stored indoors or close to other flammable items. When not in use, the propane tank needs to be capped and the valve should be shut to prevent leaks.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and may fall over if they are not placed on a level surface. To decrease the risk, place standing heaters on an even surface and then anchor them using bungee cords or heat-resistant ties in order to prevent them from falling over. Standing heaters are also more likely to tip over if the wind blows, so they should be secured with weights to avoid this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters that connects to a home's existing natural gas line and is less expensive to operate than propane. These are also more long-lasting systems that require professional installation and should be installed in open, ventilated outdoor areas.
Certain patio heaters utilize infrared technology to warm nearby surfaces rather than heating the air directly. This type of heater is safe for pets and children since it doesn't emit fumes or flames. However, they might not be suitable for colder climates or for large areas. It's also important to install a carbon monoxide alarm near the patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and give you the chance to eliminate the source before it turns into a fire or health danger.
Maintenance
Check and clean regularly your patio heaters. This is essential to ensure that the gas line isn't blocked and that all the parts of the heater are working properly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a full or empty level. small patio gas could cause the heater to perform poorly, and could pose a risk. The burner, orifices and pilot tube must be clean and free of carbon deposits. The burner venturi and all other openings should be free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel used on the patio heater will not "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions may leave brown deposits that will 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 ideal for outdoor areas and can be moved easily. They are usually more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by propane or natural gas and should be used in areas with good ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most sought-after type because they are highly portable and easily filled. Ideal for gazebos or covered outdoor areas as well as pergolas. These patio heaters are less expensive but produce fumes, and could pose a fire risk if they are not maintained correctly.
The regulator or gas hose is the connection between the propane tank and the burner unit. It is essential to replace the gas hose on a regular basis to avoid leaks and damage. The gas regulator needs to be replaced every 10 years or so as well, regardless of whether there is visible damage to the component. This is particularly crucial when changing from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater won't remain lit. This is usually due to the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. This is usually a simple fix by removing the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are very clean burning and heat up very quickly. They are also extremely mobile and don't require electricity, which means you can move them from one part of your outdoor space to another. These attributes make them a perfect choice for commercial or multifamily spaces.
The cleaning procedures for these heaters are very simple. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been turned off and cooled to a comfortable temperature. This helps you avoid accidently damaging the unit. Take off the top cover, then remove the burner assembly. Make use of a cotton swab rub alcohol onto the venturis and orifices which are inside the burner assembly. This will help in removing any dust and spider webs that have built up.
If your natural gas heater has a painted exterior, make sure you do not paint the grid of the emitter, lighting instructions, valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These surfaces will need to be cleaned with water and soap solution or car wax a couple of times a year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking like new. This is especially crucial in areas that are prone to traffic or in areas where your outdoor space is exposed to the elements.