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 have changed. They require little maintenance and can last for a long time.
Follow all instructions from the manufacturer regarding testing, servicing and lighting. A qualified technician should repair any leaks.
Installation
Contrary to propane models gas patio heaters are linked directly to the natural gas line in your home which makes them more durable than portable models. They heat up faster and can be installed in larger spaces because 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 can't be refueled with extension hoses, therefore they're not as mobile.
In addition to determining the lines for your heater in the patio you'll also need to figure out the amount of BTUs (billion british thermal units) you'll require to heat the space. The best method for calculating this is to employ an easy math formula: multiply the square footage of your outdoor space by its desired temperature increase. Divide the result by the maximum BTUs that your patio heater can produce to determine how many units you'll require.
pop over here can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models typically have wheels for easy mobility and can be able to accommodate tables or any other surface beneath the burner head. The base is made of tough stainless steel and features a protective finish that helps to prevent corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units, on other on the other hand, are a good option for homes with high ceilings and are too large for freestanding models. They can be installed up to 14 feet and come with a mounting kit comprising a bracket and hose.
If you are installing a gas patio heater for your outdoor space, you'll have to look for leaks on a regular basis. A soapy water solution could be used to detect leaks, and you must be looking for signs of burning or rusting. If you suspect a leak, you should have an experienced technician or plumber inspect the heater and make repairs as necessary.
In addition to looking for leaks, you should be aware of whether your patio is in a region with salt air or is near the ocean. This can cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode at a higher rate than the parts in non-ocean environments. Install a drain pan at the bottom of the gas line to eliminate the accumulation of sediment. This could impact heater performance and safety.
Safety
Many people use patio heaters for warmth and ambiance, but it's essential to take certain safety precautions. This includes placing the heater in a well-ventilated space and keeping it away from children or pets and regularly checking the heater for any signs of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas patio heater s should only be only used outdoors, as they can release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when inhaled.
A propane patio heater has a fuel tank which must be regularly replenished or changed. The tanks can be filled at most gas stations and convenience stores. When not in use, it is important to properly store the tank. It poses an ignition risk and should never be kept inside or near other items that can ignite. When not in use the propane tank should be closed 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 with bungee cords, heat-resistant ties or other methods to stop them from falling. Standing heaters may also tip over more easily if there is an extremely strong wind, therefore weights are recommended to avoid this.
Some people prefer a natural gas patio heater that is connected to a home's existing natural gas line and is more affordable to operate than propane. These are also more permanent systems that require professional installation and should be located in open, ventilated outdoor spaces.
Some patio heaters warm nearby surfaces by using infrared rather than directly heating the air. This type is generally safer around kids and pets, as it doesn't produce any smoke or flames, however they might not be efficient in colder climates and are not recommended for large areas. It is also essential to install a carbon monoxide alarm close to the patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emission and give you the chance to remove the source before it becomes a health or fire danger.
Maintenance
Regularly inspect and clean patio heaters. This is necessary to ensure that the gas line isn't blocked and that all the parts of the heater are working properly. It is also essential to make sure that the propane tank isn't empty or overly full. This can make the heater operate inefficiently, and it could lead to danger. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. The venturi for the burner as well as the other openings must be free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel on the patio heater won't "rust," but varying conditions in the weather can cause brown deposits that need to be rinsed off frequently.
Gas patio heaters can be very strong, and based on the model, they can quickly heat a large space. They are perfect 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 are recommended for areas that have good ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular because they are lightweight and easy to refill. They are perfect for pergolas, gazebos, and other outdoor areas that are covered. They are less expensive than the other two types of patio heaters however they emit gas and can be an ignition hazard if they are not properly maintained.
The gas hose, or regulator, is the part that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. To prevent leaks and damage, it is important to replace your hose on a regular basis. The gas regulator needs to be replaced every 10 years or so regardless of whether there is any visible damage to the component. This is particularly crucial when changing from one size of propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater will not remain lit. The thermocouple can be too far away 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.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are efficient and clean burning. They also rapidly heat up. They are also very mobile and don't require an electrical source, so you can move them from one part of your outdoor space to another. These characteristics make them a great choice for multi-family or commercial spaces.
The cleaning procedures associated with these types of heaters are easy. Ensure that your propane patio heater is turned off and is cool to the touch prior to starting cleaning. This will prevent you from harming the unit. Take off the top cover, then remove the burner assembly. Use a cotton swab to rub alcohol onto the orifices and burner venturis which are inside the burner assembly. This will remove any dust or spider webs.
If you've already painted the surface of your natural gas heater make sure you do not paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions. Also, don't paint the control knob or valve or the LP tank. These areas will need to be cleaned with mild soap and water solution or car wax a few times per year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or in areas with an outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.