Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters allow you to provide warmth to customers outside long after the seasons change and can improve the profits of your business. They require very little maintenance and can last for a long time.
Keep the patio heater away from any flammable materials and follow the manufacturer's 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 in your home, making them more durable. They heat up faster and can be installed in larger spaces because they can be used with multiple pipes. They require professional installation in order to ensure proper sizing of the gas lines. Natural gas patio heaters can't be refueled using extension hoses, so they are less portable.
In addition to sizing the lines for your heater in the patio, you'll need to determine the amount of BTUs (billion British thermal units) you'll require to heat up the space. To determine this, you can use a simple math equation that involves multiplying the area of your outdoor area by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that number by the maximum number of BTUs your heater for patio use can produce to find out the number of units you'll require.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models typically have wheels for easy mobility and can be able to accommodate a table or other surface underneath the burner head. The base is constructed of stainless steel and has a protective finish that is resistant to corrosion and rust. The wall-mount model is a better option for areas with high ceilings, or are too large to use freestanding models. They can be put up to 14 feet in the air and include mounting kits that include a bracket and hose, quick couplers and shut off valves.
If you are installing a gas patio heater for your outdoor space, you'll need to check for leaks on a regular basis. You can detect them using a soapy water solution. You should also look for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect that there is an issue with your heater, you should have an experienced technician or plumber inspect it and make any necessary repairs.
Apart from checking for leaks, you should also take into consideration whether your patio is located in an area that has salt air or is close to the ocean. The parts made of metal in the heater are more susceptible to corrosion in a sea environment. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to reduce any sediment accumulation. This can affect heater performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are popular due to their comfort and ambience. However, it is essential to take safety precautions. Place the heater in an area that is well ventilated, keep it away from pets and children and check the heater frequently for signs of wear or damage. Propane or natural gas patio heaters are designed to be used in outdoor spaces, as they release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater has tanks for fuel that need to be replaced or filled every now and then. A majority of convenience stores and gas stations can refill these tanks. When not in use, it is crucial to properly store the tank. It poses an ignition risk and should never be kept indoors or close to other flammable items. When not in use the propane tank should be sealed and the valve shut to stop leaks.
Propane patio heaters are unstable and can be prone to tipping over if not set on a level surface. To reduce the chance of falling, put standing heaters on a level surface and secure them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties to prevent them from falling over. Standing heaters can also topple over more easily if there is an extremely strong wind, therefore weights are recommended to stop this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters that is connected to a home's existing natural gas line and is cheaper to run than propane. These are permanent systems, which require professional installation. They should be placed in areas that are well ventilated.
Certain patio heaters utilize infrared technology that heats the surrounding surfaces instead of heating the air directly. This type of heater is generally safe around kids and pets, as it doesn't produce any flames or fumes. However, they may not be effective in colder climates and are not recommended for large areas. It's also crucial to install an alarm for carbon monoxide near patio heaters using infrared technologies. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emission and allow you to extinguish it before it causes an encroachment or health risk.
Maintenance
Patio heaters must be checked and cleaned on a regular basis. This is important to ensure that the gas line isn't blocked and that all components of the heater function correctly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a full or empty level. This could cause the heater to perform poorly, and could be dangerous. The burner, orifices and pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. The venturi of the burner and the other openings must be free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater will not rust, but different atmospheric conditions can result in brown deposits. These will need to periodically be cleaned.
Gas patio heaters are very powerful and can quickly warm a large area based on the model. They are ideal for outdoor areas that are easily moved around, and are usually more expensive than electric heaters. They require a natural gas or propane fuel source and should be used in well-ventilated areas.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular type because they are highly portable and easily filled. Ideal for gazebos, covered outdoor areas and pergolas. These patio heaters aren't as expensive but produce fumes, and pose fire hazards if they are not properly maintained.
The gas hose, or regulator, is the piece that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. To prevent leaks and damage, it is important to replace your hose regularly. The gas regulator should be replaced every 10 years or so regardless of whether there is any obvious damage to the part. This is particularly important when switching from one size propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater will not stay lit. This is usually due to the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. This is usually a simple fix. Take off the access panel, and use pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer to each other.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are efficient and clean burning. They also rapidly heat up. They are very mobile and do not require a power source. You can move them around your outdoor space. These attributes make them a great choice for residential or commercial spaces.
The cleaning methods associated with these heaters are easy. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been turned off and cooled to a comfortable temperature. click here to read helps you avoid accidently damaging the unit. Remove the top cover and then remove the burner assembly. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol on the venturis and orifices that are inside of the burner assembly. This will help remove dust and spider webs that have accumulated.
If you have 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 valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned with water and soap solution or car wax a couple of times a year. This will protect the finish, and ensure that it looks new. This is particularly important in areas with a lot of traffic or in areas with an outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.