5 Patio Heater Natural Gas Projects For Every Budget

Natural Gas Patio Heaters Natural gas patio heaters can help you increase profits by giving customers the ability to stay warm outside even after the seasons have changed. They require little maintenance and can last for years. Keep the patio heater away from combustible materials and follow all manufacturer instructions for testing, servicing and lighting. A certified technician should fix any leaks. Installation Natural gas patio heaters, unlike propane-powered models that are portable are directly connected to the natural gas line inside your home, which makes them more stable. They also heat more quickly and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple pipes. They require professional installation in order to ensure the correct sizing of the gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters cannot be refueled by extension hoses, so they're not as mobile. In addition to determining the lines for your outdoor heater you'll also need to figure out the amount of BTUs (billion british thermal units) you'll require to heat up the space. To determine this you can utilize a simple math formula: multiply the area of your outdoor area by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide the result by the highest number of BTUs your patio heater could produce to find out the number of units you'll need. A patio heater can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models typically have wheels for easy mobility and can accommodate tables or other surfaces under the burner head. The base is made of tough stainless steel with an anti-corrosion finish to ward off corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units are a better option for areas with high ceilings or are too large to accommodate freestanding models. They can be hung as high as 14 feet and come with a mounting kit comprising a bracket and hose. If you are installing a gas outdoor patio heater you'll need to check for leaks frequently. A soapy water solution could be used to identify them, and you should be looking for indications of rusting or burning. If you suspect there is leaks in your heater, let an experienced plumber or technician inspect 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 where there is salt air. This could cause the metallic parts of the heater to corrode at a faster rate than in non-ocean settings. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to reduce any sediment accumulation. This could impact heater performance and safety. Safety Patio heaters are adored for their comfort and ambience. However, it is essential to take safety precautions. These include placing the heater in a well-ventilated area and ensuring it's kept away from pets or children and regularly checking the heater for any indications of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should only be used exclusively in outdoor spaces since they can release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide when inhaled. A propane-powered patio heater has an oil tank that has to be replaced or filled every now and then. Most convenience stores and gas stations can refill tanks. When not in use, it is essential to store the tank properly. It is an ignition risk and should not be stored inside or near other items that are flammable. When not in use, the propane tank must be closed and the valve should be closed to prevent leaks. Propane patio heaters are unstable and could fall over if they are not placed on a level surface. Place the standing heaters on a level surface and secure them with bungee cords, heat-resistant tie or other methods to stop them from falling. Standing heaters are also more likely to tip over if the wind blows, so they should be secured with weights to help prevent this. Some people prefer to use natural gas patio heaters. It is less expensive to run and can be connected to the home's natural gas line. These are permanent units, and require a professional installation. They should be installed in areas that are well ventilated. Some patio heaters use infrared technology that heats nearby surfaces rather than heating the air directly. This kind of heater is generally safer for pets and children because it doesn't release smoke or flames, however they may not be effective in colder climates and are not recommended for areas with large dimensions. It's also important to install a carbon monoxide alarm near the patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions, and provide you the chance to eliminate the source before it turns into a fire or health risk. Maintenance Check and clean regularly your the heaters on your patio. This is essential to ensure that the gas line isn't blocked and that all components of the heater are operating correctly. It is also important to make sure that the propane tank is not full or empty. This could cause the heater to operate inefficiently and pose a risk to the health of the user. The burner, orifices and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. All openings including the venturi of the burner should be kept clean and free of dirt and spider webs. The stainless steel of a patio heater will not “rust,” but varying atmospheric conditions can leave brown deposits that will need to be rinsed off regularly. Gas patio heaters can be extremely powerful, and based on the model, they can swiftly warm a large area. They are ideal for outdoor areas that are easily moved around and are typically more expensive than electric heaters. They are powered by propane or natural gas and should be used in areas with good ventilation. Propane patio heaters are the most sought-after because they are easily refillable and portable. They are perfect for pergolas, gazebos, and other covered outdoor areas. They are less expensive than the other two kinds of patio heaters but they emit fumes and could be an ignition hazard if they are not maintained properly. The gas hose or regulator is the connection between the propane tank and the burner unit. To prevent leaks and damage it is essential to replace your hose frequently. Gas regulators should also be replaced every 10 years, regardless of any visible damage. This is especially important when changing from one propane cylinder size to another. The most frequent issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame does not remain lit. This is usually caused by the thermocouple being 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 parts closer. Cleaning More Tips burn cleanly and heat up quickly. They are extremely mobile, and do not require power sources. They can be moved around your outdoor space. These features make them a perfect choice for multifamily or commercial spaces. The cleaning methods associated with these types of heaters are simple. Make sure that your propane patio heater is turned off and is cool to the touch prior beginning to clean. This will prevent you from damaging the heater. Remove the top cover and then remove the burner assembly. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol onto the orifices, burner venturis, and other parts of the burner assembly. This will help remove dust and spider webs that have built up. If your natural gas heater has a painted surface make sure you don't paint the emitter grid, lighting instructions, valve or control knob or the cylinder for LP. These surfaces should be cleaned using mild soap and water or car wax at least once times a year. This will protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is particularly crucial in areas that have high traffic or if you have outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.