What Experts From The Field Want You To Learn
Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters permit you to offer customers warmth outside even after the seasons change, and can boost profits. They are easy to maintain and can last years.
Keep the heater of your patio away from any flammable materials and follow all manufacturer instructions for testing, servicing, and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Unlike propane models, natural gas patio heaters are connected directly to the natural gas line of your home and are therefore more stable than portable heaters. They also heat more quickly and can be used in larger areas because they can accommodate multiple pipes. They require professional installation in order to ensure the proper sizing of the gas lines. In addition natural gas patio heaters are less portable than propane ones because they aren't able to be refueled with extension hoses.
In addition to sizing the lines for your heater in the patio, you'll need to determine the amount of BTUs (billion british thermal units) you'll require to heat up the space. To figure this out, you can use an easy math equation by multiplying the size of your outdoor area by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the maximum number of BTUs your heater for patio use can produce to find out the number of units you'll need.
A patio heater is freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models typically have wheels for mobility and can be able to accommodate a table or other surface under the burner head. The base is constructed of tough stainless steel and features a protective finish that helps to prevent corrosion and rust. The wall-mount model is an ideal choice for rooms with high ceilings, or are too large to be suitable for freestanding models. They can be hung as high as 14 feet and come with a mounting kit that includes a bracket and hose.
When installing a gas outdoor patio heater you'll have to look for leaks regularly. A soapy water solution can be used to spot them, and you should also look for signs of rust or burning. If patio heater gas suspect that there is a leak, have a plumber or qualified technician examine the heater and make repairs as necessary.
Aside from checking for leaks, also take into consideration whether your patio is located in an area with salt air or near the ocean. This can cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode at a higher rate than the parts in non-ocean areas. It is also recommended that you install a drain pan at the bottom of your gas line in order to prevent the accumulation of any sediment that can hinder the heater's performance and safety.
Safety
Many people use patio heaters for comfort and ambiance, but it's crucial 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 checking the heater for any signs of wear or damage. Natural gas or propane patio heaters should only be used in outdoor areas because they release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when inhaled.
A propane patio heater has tanks for fuel that need to be regularly replenished or changed. The tanks can be filled at many gas stations as well as convenience stores. It is essential to store the tank properly when not in use, because it's a fire risk and should not be stored in a room with other objects that are flammable. The propane tank should be sealed when not in use and the valve should be shut to prevent leaks.
Propane patio heaters are prone to instability and could fall over if not placed on a stable base. Place standing heaters on a level surface and secure them with bungee cords, heat-resistant ties or other methods to keep them from falling. Standing heaters can also topple over more easily when there is a strong wind, so weights are recommended to stop this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters that connects to a home's natural gas line and is cheaper to operate than propane. They are also more durable systems that require professional installation and should be installed in open, well-ventilated outdoor spaces.
Some patio heaters employ infrared technology to warm nearby surfaces, rather than heating the air directly. This type of heater is generally safe around kids and pets, since it doesn't emit flames or fumes, but they may not work in warmer climates and aren't recommended for areas with large dimensions. Additionally, it is important to have a carbon monoxide detector installed near any patio heaters that use infrared technology. gas for patio heater will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and provide you with the opportunity to eliminate it before it can cause a health or fire hazard.
Maintenance
The heaters on patios should be inspected and cleaned regularly. It is important to check that the gas line doesn't have a blockage and that all components are working properly. It is also essential to make sure that the propane tank isn't completely empty or filled to the top. 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 venturi for the burner as well as all other openings should be kept clear of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater will not get rusty, but the different atmospheric conditions can cause brown deposits. These will need to periodically be washed off.
Gas patio heaters are powerful, and based on the model, they can quickly heat a large space. They are ideal for outdoor areas 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 ideal for pergolas, gazebos and other covered outdoor areas. They are cheaper than the other two types of patio heaters but they do produce fumes and could be a fire hazard if not properly maintained.
The gas hose or regulator is the part that connects the propane tank and the burner unit. To prevent damage and leaks it is crucial to replace your hose frequently. Gas regulators should also be replaced every 10 years, regardless of visible damage. This is especially important when changing from one propane cylinder size to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater won't remain lit. This is usually caused by the thermocouple moving far away from the pilot light. This is usually an easy fix by removing the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters burn very easily and quickly. They are extremely mobile, and do not require power sources. You can move them around your outdoor space. These features make them a great option for commercial or multifamily spaces.
They are simple to clean. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been turned off and is cooled to a comfortable temperature. This will help you avoid harming the unit. First take off the top cover, then take the burner assembly apart. Make use of a cotton swab to rub alcohol onto the venturis of the orifices, the burner and other components of the burner assembly. This will help in removing any spider webs and dust that have accumulated.
If you've already painted the exterior of your natural gas heater, be sure not to paint the emitter grid or the lighting instructions. Also, don't paint the valve or control knob or the LP Cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned with water and soap, or car wax at least a few times a year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking brand new. This is especially important in areas with a lot of traffic or in areas with an outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.