Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters allow you to offer customers warmth outdoors long after the seasons change, and can increase the profits of your business. They require very little maintenance and can last for years.
Keep the heater in a safe place from combustible materials and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding testing, servicing, and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters in contrast to propane heaters that are portable are directly connected to the natural gas line that runs through your home, making them more stable. They heat up faster and can be put in larger areas due to the fact that they can be used with multiple piping systems. However they require expert installation to ensure proper size of gas lines. Additionally, natural gas patio heaters aren't as transportable than propane heaters since they aren't able to be refueled with extension hoses.
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 warm the area. The most efficient method to calculate this is to utilize an easy math formula that is to multiply the square area of your outdoor space by its desired temperature increase. Then, divide the result by the maximum amount of BTUs your heater for patio use can generate to figure out the number of units you'll need.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Freestanding models are typically equipped with wheels for easy movement and can also accommodate tables or other surfaces underneath the burner head. The base is made from stainless steel and has a protective finish that is resistant to corrosion and corrosion. The wall-mount model is an ideal choice for rooms with high ceilings, or are too large to use freestanding models. They can be mounted up to 14 feet up in the air and include mounting kits that include a bracket, quick couplers, hoses, and shut off valves.
You'll need to check regularly for leaks when installing a patio heater. 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, you should have an experienced technician or plumber inspect the heater and make repairs if needed.
You should not only check for leaks but also consider whether your patio is close to the ocean or located in an area that has salt air. This could cause the metal parts of the heater to corrode faster rate than the parts in non-ocean settings. It is also recommended that you install drain pans at the bottom of your gas line in order to prevent any sediment accumulation that may affect heater performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are adored for their comfort and ambience. However, it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself. Set the heater in a location that is well ventilated, and keep it away from pets and children and check the heater regularly for signs of wear or damage. Natural gas or propane patio heaters are designed to be used outdoors as they emit harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane patio heater is equipped with tanks for fuel that need to be periodically refilled or changed. Tanks can be refilled at many gas stations as well as convenience stores. When not in use, it is important to store the tank properly. It poses an hazard to fire and should not be stored indoors or close to other flammable items. When not in use, the propane tank must be sealed and the valve should be shut to prevent leaks.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and could fall over if they are not placed on a level surface. Place the standing heaters on an even surface and secure them with bungee cords, heat-resistant ties, or other means to prevent them from falling. Standing heaters can also topple over more easily if there is a strong wind, so weights are recommended to stop this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters that is connected to the home's natural gas line and is cheaper to operate than propane. These are permanent heaters that require professional installation. They should be placed in outdoor areas that are well-ventilated.
Some patio heaters warm the surrounding surfaces with infrared instead of directly heating the air. This kind of heater is generally safer for pets and children, as it doesn't produce any flames or fumes. However, they might not be efficient in warmer climates and aren't recommended for areas with large dimensions. It's also important to install an alarm for carbon monoxide near patio heaters using infrared technologies. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and provide you with the opportunity to extinguish it before it causes an encroachment or health risk.
Maintenance
Patio heaters must be inspected and cleaned regularly. It is crucial to make sure that the gas line doesn't have a blockage and that all components are functioning correctly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a low or empty level. This could cause the heater to function inefficiently, which could be dangerous. The burner, orifices and the pilot tube must be kept free of carbon deposits. All openings including the venturi for the burner, should be cleaned and free of dirt and spider webs. The stainless steel used on the patio heater won't "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions can create brown deposits that need to be rinsed off frequently.
Gas patio heaters are very powerful and can quickly warm up a large area based on the model. They are perfect 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 are best used in well-ventilated areas.
Propane patio heaters are the most well-known kind due to the fact that they are portable and can be easily refilled. Ideal for gazebos, covered outdoor areas and pergolas. They are less expensive than the other two types of patio heaters however they do produce gas and can be dangerous to fire if not maintained properly.
The gas hose, also known as a regulator, is the piece that connects the propane tank to the burner unit. To prevent leaks and damage it is crucial to replace your hose frequently. Gas regulators must also be replaced approximately every 10 years, regardless of visible damage. This is particularly important when switching from one size propane cylinder to another.
The flame of a propane patio heater won't stay lit. This is usually due to the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. This is usually an easy fix by taking off the access panel and using pliers to gently squeeze the two components closer.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters are very green burning and can are extremely hot. 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 multi-family or commercial spaces.
These heaters are easy to clean. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater has been turned off and cooled to a comfortable temperature. This prevents you from accidently damaging the unit. Take off the top cover, then remove the burner assembly. Make use of a cotton swab to rub alcohol over the venturis of the orifices, the burner, and other parts of the burner assembly. This will remove any dust or spider webs.
If you've painted the surface of your natural gas heater, make sure you do not paint the emitter grid or the lighting instructions. Also, do not paint the valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. garden patio heater gas need to be cleaned with water and mild soap or car wax at least once times per year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking brand new. This is particularly important in areas with a lot of traffic or an outdoor space that is exposed to the elements.