Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters allow you to keep your customers warm outdoors long after the seasons change and can boost the profitability of your business. They require little maintenance and can last years.
Follow all instructions from the manufacturer regarding testing, maintenance and lighting. A qualified technician in service should repair any leaks.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters unlike propane-powered models that are portable are directly connected to the natural gas line that runs through your home, which makes them more durable. They also heat faster and can be used in larger spaces because they can accommodate multiple piping lines. However they require a professional installation to ensure proper size of gas lines. In addition natural gas patio heaters tend to be less transportable than propane heaters since they aren't able to be refueled with extension hoses.
In addition to sizing the lines for your patio heater, you'll need to determine the amount of BTUs (billion British thermal units) you'll require to warm the area. To determine this, you can use an easy math equation by multiplying the size of your outdoor area by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide the result by the maximum number of BTUs your patio heater can produce to find out the number of units you'll require.
Patio heaters can be mounted on the wall or freestanding. Freestanding models usually have wheels that allow for easy mobility and can accommodate a table or other surface beneath the burner head. The base is made of durable stainless steel and features a protective finish that helps to prevent corrosion and rust. The wall-mount model is the best option for areas with high ceilings or are too large to accommodate freestanding models. best gas patio heater uk can be hung as high as 14 feet and come with a mounting set which includes a bracket as well as hose.
If you are installing a gas patio heater for your outdoor space, you'll have to look for leaks on a regular basis. They can be detected using a soapy water solution. You should also check for signs of rusting or burning. If you suspect there is leaks in your heater, let a qualified technician or plumber examine it and make any necessary repairs.
You should not only check for leaks but also consider whether your patio is near the ocean or located in an area that has salt air. This could cause the metallic parts of the heater to corrode at a faster rate than those in non-ocean settings. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to eliminate any sediment accumulation. This could affect the heater's performance and safety.
Safety
Many people opt to make use of patio heaters to provide warmth and ambiance, however it's essential to take certain safety precautions. These include placing the heater in a ventilated area and ensuring it's kept away from pets or children and regularly examining the heater for signs of damage or wear. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should only be used exclusively in outdoor spaces, as they can release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, if inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater has tanks for fuel that need to be replenished or replaced every now and then. Tanks can be refilled at a variety of gas stations and convenience stores. When not in use, it is essential to properly store the tank. It poses an hazard to fire and should never be kept indoors or close to other flammable items. When not in use the propane tank needs to be closed and the valve shut to stop leaks.
Propane patio heaters can be unstable and may be prone to tipping over if not set on a level surface. 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 can also tip over more easily when there is a strong wind, so weights should be used to stop this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters that connects to a home's natural gas line and is cheaper to operate than propane. These are also more long-lasting systems that require professional installation and should be placed in open, ventilated outdoor spaces.
Certain patio heaters utilize infrared technology that heats nearby surfaces rather than heating the air directly. This type of heater is safe for pets and children as it does not emit any flames or fumes. However, they may not be suitable for warmer climates or for large spaces. It's also crucial to install an alarm for carbon monoxide near the patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emission and give you the chance to extinguish it before it becomes a health or fire hazard.
Maintenance
Clean and regularly inspect the heaters on your patio. This is essential to ensure that the gas line isn't clogged and that all parts of the heater are working correctly. Also, ensure that the propane tank doesn't have a full or empty level. This can cause the heater to function inefficiently, which could be dangerous. The burner, orifices and the pilot tube must be free of carbon deposits. The venturi of the burner and the other openings must be kept free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel patio heater will not get rusty, but the different atmospheric conditions can leave brown deposits. These will need to regularly be cleaned.
Gas patio heaters are extremely powerful and can quickly warm an extensive 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 are powered by natural gas or propane and are recommended for areas that have good ventilation.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular type due to their being highly mobile and easily refilled. They are perfect for gazebos or covered outdoor areas as well as pergolas. They are cheaper than the other two types of patio heaters however they do produce gas and can 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 avoid damage and leaks, it is important to replace your hose regularly. Gas regulators should be replaced at least every 10 years, regardless of visible damage. This is especially important when converting from one size propane gas cylinder to another.
The most common issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame does not keep burning. This is usually caused by the thermocouple being too far away from the pilot light. This is typically simple to fix. Take off the access panel and use pliers to gently squeeze both components closer together.
Cleaning
Natural gas patio heaters burn very efficiently and quickly. They are also highly mobile and don't require a power source so they can be moved from one part of your outdoor space to another. These characteristics make them an ideal choice for multifamily or commercial spaces.
They are easy to clean. Before cleaning, make sure that the propane patio heater is shut off and cooled to a comfortable temperature. This prevents you from accidentally causing damage to the heater. Take off the top cover, then disassemble burner assembly. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol over 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 exterior, ensure that you do not paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions, the valve or control knob area or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned using water and soap, or car wax at least a few times a year. This will help protect the finish and keep it looking new. This is particularly important in high traffic areas or if your outdoor space is exposed to elements.