Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters can help you boost your profits by giving customers the ability to stay warm outside, even when the seasons change. They require little maintenance and last for many years.
Follow all instructions from the manufacturer regarding testing, servicing and lighting. A certified service technician should repair any leaks.
Installation
In contrast to propane models, natural gas patio heaters are plugged directly to the natural gas line of your home and are therefore more stable than portable heaters. They heat up faster and can be installed in larger areas due to the fact that they can accommodate multiple piping systems. They require a professional installation to ensure the proper size of the gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters aren't able to be refueled by extension hoses, therefore they're not as mobile.
In addition to determining 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 calculate this you can utilize a simple math equation that involves multiplying the area of your outdoor area by the desired temperature increase. Divide the result by the maximum BTUs that your patio heater can produce to determine the number of units you'll require.
A patio heater is freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models are typically equipped with wheels to allow for easy mobility and can be able to accommodate tables or other surfaces underneath the burner head. The base is made from stainless steel with a protective finish that resists corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units, on the other hand, are a better choice for areas with high ceilings or that are too big for freestanding models. They can be mounted up to 14 feet high and include mounting kits that include a bracket, quick couplers, hoses and a shut off valves.
It is essential to regularly check for leaks before installing an outdoor heater. A soapy water solution could be used to identify leaks, and you should also look for indications of rusting or burning. If you suspect that there is a leak, you should have an expert technician or plumber examine the heater and make repairs as needed.
In addition to looking for leaks, you must also take into consideration whether your patio is in an area that has salt air or is near the ocean. This could cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode at a faster rate than in non-ocean areas. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to prevent the accumulation of sediment. This could affect the heater's performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are popular due to their comfort and ambience. However, it's important to take safety precautions. For instance, you should place the heater in a ventilated area, making sure it's away from children or pets, and regularly inspecting the heater for any signs of wear or damage. Natural gas or propane patio heaters are only to be used in outdoor areas because they emit harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane patio heater comes with an oil tank that must be periodically refilled or changed. The majority of convenience stores and gas stations can refill these tanks. It is essential to store the tank in a safe manner when not in use since it's a fire hazard and should never be stored inside or in close proximity to other flammable objects. When not in use the propane tank must be closed and the valve should be shut to prevent leaks.
Propane patio heaters are unstable and may be prone to tipping over if not set on a level surface. Place the standing heaters on an even surface and secure with 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 with weights to prevent this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters, which connects to a home's existing natural gas line and is less expensive to operate than propane. These are permanent systems, which require a professional installation. They should be installed in areas that are well ventilated.
Some patio heaters heat nearby surfaces by using infrared rather than directly heating the air. This kind of heater is generally safer for pets and children because it doesn't release smoke or flames, however they might not be efficient in colder climates and aren't recommended for very large spaces. In addition, it's important to have a carbon monoxide detector installed near any 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 turns into a fire or health risk.
Maintenance
Regularly inspect and clean heaters for your patio regularly. This is necessary to ensure that the gas line is not clogged and that all parts of the heater function properly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a empty or full level. This could cause the heater to operate inefficiently, and it could be dangerous. The burner, orifices, and the pilot tube must be kept clean and free of carbon deposits. The venturi of the burner and all other openings should be kept free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel of the patio heater will not "rust," but varying conditions in the weather can create brown deposits that require cleaning periodically.
Gas patio heaters are extremely powerful and can quickly warm up a large area, depending on the model. They are perfect for outdoor spaces and are easy to move. They are usually more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by propane or natural gas and are best used in areas with adequate ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most well-known kind due to the fact that they are portable and easily refilled. They are perfect for gazebos or covered outdoor areas as well as pergolas. They are less expensive, but they emit fumes and can be an ignition risk in the event that they are not maintained correctly.
The gas hose, or regulator, is the part that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. It is crucial to replace the hose regularly to avoid leaks and damage. Gas regulators should also be replaced every 10 years, regardless of any visible damage. This is especially crucial when switching from one size propane cylinder to another.
The most frequent issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame will not keep burning. The thermocouple is usually too far away from the pilot light. This is typically an easy fix. Take off the access panel, then use pliers to gently squeeze both components closer.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are very efficient and clean burning. They also heat up very quickly. They are very mobile and do not require power sources. They can be moved around your outdoor space. These characteristics make them a great option for commercial or multifamily spaces.
These heaters are easy to clean. Make sure your propane patio heater is turned off and is cool to the touch prior starting cleaning. This will ensure that you don't accidentally damaging the unit. First, remove the top cover, then disassemble the burner assembly. Use a cotton swab and rub alcohol over the orifices, burner venturis and other parts of the burner assembly. propane patio gas will remove any spider webs or dust.
If you've already painted the exterior of your natural gas heater, make sure you do not 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 mild soap and water solution or car wax at least a couple of times a year. This will help protect the finish and ensure that it looks new. This is particularly important in areas with high traffic or if your outdoor space is exposed to the elements.