Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters can boost your profits by providing customers with warmth outside even after the seasons have changed. They require little maintenance and can last for years.
Follow all the directions from the manufacturer regarding testing, maintenance and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Unlike propane models, natural gas patio heaters are linked directly to the natural gas line of your home and are therefore more stable than their portable counterparts. They also heat up faster and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple pipelines. However they require professional installation to ensure proper size of gas lines. Additionally natural gas patio heaters aren't as portable than propane heaters because they can't be refueled using extension hoses.
You'll also have to determine the amount of BTUs you'll need to heat your space. The best way to calculate this is to use a simple math formula: multiply the square area of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that result by the maximum number of BTUs your heater for patio use can produce to determine the number of units you'll need.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models typically come with wheels for mobility, and can also accommodate tables or other surfaces under the burner head. patio heater gas cylinder is made from stainless steel, with a protective finish that resists corrosion and corrosion. The wall-mount model is the best option for areas that have high ceilings or are too big 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.
If you are installing a gas outdoor patio heater you'll need to check for leaks regularly. They can be detected using a soapy water solution. You should also check for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect that there is leaks in your heater, have an experienced technician or plumber examine it and make any necessary repairs.
It is not enough to check for leaks, but also consider whether your patio is close to the ocean or is located in an area with salt air. The metal parts of the heater are more susceptible to corrosion in an ocean environment. Install a drain pan at the bottom of the gas line to reduce the amount of sediment that accumulates. This could affect the heater's performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are adored for their comfort and ambiance. However, it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself. This includes placing the heater in a well-ventilated area, making sure it's away from children or pets, and regularly inspecting the heater for indications of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should only be only used outdoors since they can release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when inhaled.
A propane patio heater comes with a fuel tank which must be regularly replenished or changed. Tanks can be refilled at a variety of gas stations and convenience stores. It is essential to properly store the tank when it's not in use as it's a fire hazard and should not be stored in a room with other objects that are flammable. When not in use, the propane tank needs to be capped and the valve should be closed to prevent leaks.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and could be prone to tipping over if not set on a stable surface. Set the heaters on an even surface and secure them with bungee cords, heat-resistant tie or other methods to keep them from falling. Standing heaters are also more prone to tip over when the wind blows, so they should be secured using weights to prevent this.
Some people prefer to use a natural-gas patio heater. It is less expensive to operate and connects to the home's natural gas line. These are permanent heaters that require a professional installation. They should be placed in outdoor areas that are well-ventilated.
Some patio heaters warm nearby surfaces by using infrared rather than directly heating the air. This type is generally safer around kids and pets, because it doesn't release flames or fumes, but they may not be effective in colder climates and aren't recommended for very large spaces. In addition, it's essential to have a carbon monoxide detector near any patio heaters that use infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emission and provide you with the opportunity to extinguish it before it becomes a fire or health hazard.
Maintenance
Clean and regularly inspect heaters for your patio regularly. This is important to ensure that the gas line isn't clogged and that all parts of the heater are operating correctly. It is also crucial to ensure that the propane tank is not empty or overly full. This can cause the heater to function inefficiently, which could be dangerous. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube must be clean and 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 will not "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions may create brown deposits that require cleaning periodically.
Gas patio heaters can be very strong, and based on the model, they can quickly warm a large area. They are ideal for outdoor areas that can be easily moved around and are typically more expensive than electric heaters. They require propane or natural gas fuel source and are best employed in areas with good ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular type due to their being highly portable and easily refilled. They are perfect for gazebos and covered outdoor areas, as well as pergolas. They are less expensive, however they produce fumes and could pose a fire risk if they are not maintained properly.
The gas hose or regulator is the connection between the propane tank and the burner unit. To avoid damage and leaks, it is important to replace your hose frequently. The gas regulator needs to be replaced every 10 years or so as well, regardless of whether there is any obvious damage to the part. This is especially crucial when changing from one propane cylinder size to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater won't stay lit. This is usually due to the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. This is usually simple to fix. Take off the access panel, and use pliers to gently squeeze both components closer.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are efficient and clean burning. They also are extremely hot. They are highly mobile, and do not require power sources. You can move them around your outdoor space. These attributes make them an ideal choice for commercial or multifamily spaces.
They are easy to clean. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater is turned off and is cool to the touch. This will prevent you from accidentally damaging the unit. First, remove the top cover and then disassemble the burner assembly. Use a cotton swab and rub alcohol onto the venturis of the orifices, the burner and other parts of the burner assembly. This will remove any dust or spider webs.
If you've already painted the exterior of your natural gas heater ensure that you do not paint the emitter grid or the lighting instructions. Also, do not paint the control knob or valve or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned using water and mild soap or car wax at least a few times a year. This will protect the finish, and keep it looking like new. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or if your outdoor space is exposed to elements.