Five Patio Heater Natural Gas Lessons From The Pros
Natural Gas Patio Heaters Natural gas patio heaters can 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 gas fired patio heaters from the manufacturer regarding testing, servicing and lighting. A trained technician in service should repair any leaks. Installation Contrary to propane models gas patio heaters are connected directly to the natural gas line in your home which makes them more durable than their portable counterparts. The heaters heat up faster and can be installed in larger spaces due to the fact that they can be used with multiple piping systems. However they require professional installation to ensure the proper sizing of gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters cannot be refueled by extension hoses, so they're not as portable. In addition to determining the lines for your patio heater You'll need to figure out the number of BTUs (billion British thermal units) that you'll need to heat up the space. To figure gas fire patio heater out you can utilize a simple math equation: multiply the area of your outdoor space with the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the maximum amount of BTUs your patio heater can generate to figure out the number of units you'll need. Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models typically have wheels for mobility and can accommodate a table or other surface beneath the burner head. The base is made of tough stainless steel with an anti-corrosion finish to ward off corrosion and rust. The wall-mount unit is an ideal choice for rooms with high ceilings or are too large to be suitable for freestanding models. They can be mounted as high as 14 feet and come with a mounting set that includes a bracket and hose. When you install a gas patio heater for your outdoor space, you'll need to check for leaks frequently. You can detect them using a soapy water solution. You should also look for signs of rusting or burning. If you suspect that there is a leak, have an experienced technician or plumber examine the heater and make repairs if needed. In addition to looking for leaks, be aware of whether your patio is in a region with salt air or near the ocean. This could cause the metallic parts of the heater to corrode at a faster rate than the parts in non-ocean areas. Install a drain pan on 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 popular for their comfort and ambiance. However, it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself. Place the heater in an area that is well ventilated, keep it away from children and pets and examine the heater regularly for signs of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas heaters for patios should be used exclusively in outdoor spaces, as they can release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, if inhaled. A propane patio heater is equipped with an oil tank that must be periodically refilled or changed. The tanks can be filled at most gas stations and convenience stores. It is essential to store the tank properly when not in use as it's a fire hazard and should not be kept inside or in close proximity to other objects that are flammable. When not in use, the propane tank should be capped and the valve should be shut to stop leaks. Propane patio heaters are prone to instability and could tip over if they are not placed on a solid base. Set the heaters on a level surface and secure with bungee cords, heat-resistant ties, or other methods to stop them from falling. Standing heaters are also more likely to tip over if winds blow, so they should be secured with weights to avoid this. Some people prefer to use natural gas patio heaters. It is more affordable to run and is connected to the natural gas line of your home. They are also more durable systems that require professional installation and should be located in open, ventilated outdoor spaces. Some patio heaters warm nearby surfaces using infrared rather than directly heating the air. This type is generally safer for pets and children, since it doesn't emit flames or fumes, but they may not be effective in colder climates and are not recommended for very large spaces. Additionally, it is vital to have an infrared carbon monoxide detector close to any patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and give you the chance to remove the source before it becomes a health or fire danger. Maintenance Regularly inspect and clean patio heaters. It is important to check that the gas line doesn't have a clog and that all components are working properly. Also, make sure the propane tank doesn't have a full or empty level. This could cause the heater to function inefficiently, which could be dangerous. The burner, orifices and the pilot tube should be free of carbon deposits. All openings including the venturi for the burner should be kept clean and free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel used on the patio heater will not “rust,” but varying atmospheric conditions can create brown deposits that require cleaning frequently. Gas patio heaters are extremely powerful and can quickly warm a large area depending on the model. They are great for outdoor spaces and can be moved easily. They are typically more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by propane or natural gas and should be used in areas with adequate ventilation. Propane patio heaters are the most popular type because they are highly portable and can be easily refilled. They are perfect for pergolas, gazebos and other covered outdoor areas. They are cheaper than the other two types of patio heaters however they produce fumes and could be a fire hazard if not maintained properly. The gas hose or regulator is the connecting part between the propane tank and the burner unit. To prevent damage and leaks it is essential to replace your hose regularly. Gas regulators should also be replaced every 10 years, regardless of any visible damage. This is particularly crucial when changing from one propane cylinder size to another. The flame of a propane patio heater won't remain lit. The thermocouple can be too far from the pilot light. It is usually a simple fix by getting rid of the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer together. Cleaning Natural gas patio heaters are efficient and clean burning. They also rapidly heat up. They are very mobile and do not require power sources. They can be moved around your outdoor space. These attributes make them an ideal choice for commercial or multifamily properties. The cleaning procedures for these heaters are easy. Before you begin cleaning, ensure that the propane patio heater has been shut off and cooled to a comfortable temperature. This will prevent you from damaging the heater. Remove the top cover, then remove the burner assembly. Use a cotton swab and rub alcohol over the venturis, orifices and other components of the burner assembly. This will remove any spider webs or dust. If you've painted the surface of your natural gas heater ensure that you do not paint the emitter grid or lighting instructions. Also, don't paint the valve or control knob or the LP Cylinder. These areas will need to be cleaned using mild soap and water solution or car wax a couple of times a year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking fresh. This is especially important in high traffic areas or in areas where your outdoor space is exposed to elements.