Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters can help you increase profits by allowing customers to stay warm outside, even when the weather has changed. They are easy to maintain and last for a long time.
Keep the heater in a safe place from combustible materials and follow all manufacturer instructions for testing, servicing, and lighting. A certified technician in service 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 durable. The heaters are more efficient in heating and can be put in larger areas because they can accommodate multiple pipes. They require professional installation in order to ensure proper size of the gas lines. In addition natural gas patio heaters are less portable than propane heaters because they aren't able to be refueled with extension hoses.
In gas flame patio heater to sizing the lines for your outdoor heater You'll need to figure out the amount of BTUs (billion british thermal units) that you'll need to warm the area. The best way to calculate this is to utilize an easy math formula: multiply the square footage of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Divide the result by the maximum BTUs that your patio heater is capable of producing to determine the number of units you'll need.
A patio heater can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models usually have wheels that allow for easy mobility, and can also accommodate a table or other surface underneath the burner head. The base is made of stainless steel with an anti-corrosive finish that wards off corrosion and corrosion. Wall-mount models, on the other on the other hand, are a good option for rooms with high ceilings and that are too big for freestanding models. They can be hung up to 14 feet up in the air and include an installation kit that includes a bracket, quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valve.
When you install a gas patio heater for your outdoor space, you'll have to look for leaks on a regular basis. You can spot them with a soapy water solution. Also, look for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect that there is leaks in your heater, you should have an experienced plumber or technician assess the heater and make any necessary repairs.
You should not only check for leaks, but also think about whether your patio is close to the ocean or in an area with salt air. This could cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode faster rate than in non-ocean environments. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to eliminate any sediment accumulation. This could affect the heater's performance and safety.
Safety
Many people opt to use patio heaters for comfort and ambience, however it's important to remember to take certain safety precautions. Place the heater in an area that is well ventilated, and keep it away from pets and children and examine the heater regularly for signs of wear or damage. Propane or natural gas patio heaters are designed to be used in outdoor spaces, as they emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater has a fuel tank that must be replaced or filled from time to time. The majority of gas stations and convenience shops can refill these tanks. It's important to store the tank in a safe manner when it's not in use because it's a fire risk and should never be stored indoors or near other objects that are flammable. The propane tank should also be sealed when not in use and the valve closed to stop leaks.
Propane patio heaters are unstable and could fall over if they are not placed on a stable surface. To decrease the chance of this happening, place standing heaters on an even surface and secure them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties to keep them from falling over. Standing heaters can also tip over more easily if there is a strong wind, so weights are recommended to prevent this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters that connects to a home's existing natural gas line and is cheaper to operate than propane. These are also more permanent systems that require professional installation and should be installed in open, ventilated outdoor areas.
Some patio heaters use infrared technology that heats nearby surfaces, rather than heating the air directly. This type of heater is safe for children and pets as it doesn't release any flames or fumes. However, they might not be effective in warmer climates or for large areas. It is also vital to have an infrared carbon monoxide detector close to any patio heaters that use infrared technology. This will alert you of any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and give you the chance to eliminate it before it can cause an encroachment or health risk.
Maintenance
Regularly inspect and clean the heaters on your patio. It is important to check that the gas line does not have a clog and that all parts are functioning correctly. It is also crucial to ensure that the propane tank is not full or empty. This could cause the heater to function inefficiently and could be hazardous. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube should be clean and free of carbon deposits. The venturi of the burner and all other openings should be free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater will not get rusty, but the different atmospheric conditions can cause brown deposits. They will need to periodically be washed off.
Gas patio heaters can be extremely powerful, and based on the model, they can swiftly heat up a large area. They are ideal for outdoor areas that are easily moved around and are typically more expensive than electric heaters. They require a propane or natural gas fuel source and should be utilized in areas that are well ventilated.
Propane patio heaters are the most well-known type because they are highly portable and can be easily filled. They are ideal for pergolas, gazebos, and other outdoor spaces that are covered. These patio heaters aren't as expensive, however they produce fumes and can be a fire risk when they are not properly maintained.
The regulator or gas hose is the connecting part between the propane tank and the burner unit. To prevent damage and leaks it is crucial to replace your hose frequently. The gas regulator should be replaced every 10 years or so as well regardless of whether there is any obvious damage to the device. This is especially important when changing from one size of propane gas cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater will not stay lit. The thermocouple is usually too far from the pilot light. This is usually 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 clean burning and are extremely hot. They are also extremely mobile and don't require an electrical source, so they can be moved from one part of your outdoor space to another. These characteristics make them a great option for commercial or multifamily properties.
The cleaning procedures associated with these types of heaters are simple. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been shut off and cooled to a comfortable temperature. This will prevent you from accidently damaging the heater. Remove the top cover and then remove the burner assembly. Use a cotton swab and rub alcohol onto the orifices, burner venturis and other components of the burner assembly. This will help in removing dust and spider webs that have accumulated.
If your natural gas heater has a painted surface, ensure that you don't paint the emitter grid or lighting instructions, the valve or control knob area or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution or car wax a few times a year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking like new. This is particularly crucial in areas that have high traffic or if you have outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.