10 Things Everyone Makes Up Concerning Patio Heater Natural Gas
Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Natural gas patio heaters permit you to keep your customers warm outdoors long after the seasons change, and can increase the profits of your business. They are low maintenance and last for a long time.
Follow all the directions from the manufacturer for testing, maintenance and lighting. A trained technician from the service department should fix any leaks.
Installation
Contrary to propane models gas patio heaters are plugged directly to your home's natural gas line, making them more stable than portable models. The heaters heat up faster and can be placed in larger areas due to the fact that they can be used with multiple pipes. They require a professional installation to ensure the proper sizing of the gas lines. Additionally natural gas patio heaters are less portable than propane heaters because they aren't able to be refueled with extension hoses.
In addition to sizing the lines for your heater in the patio you'll also need to figure out the number of BTUs (billion british thermal units) you'll require to warm the area. The best method for calculating this is to employ a simple math formula: multiply the square footage of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Then, divide that result by the maximum amount of BTUs your patio heater could produce to find out how many units you'll need.
A patio heater can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Freestanding models are typically equipped with wheels that allow for easy movement and can be able to accommodate tables or other surfaces under the burner head. The base is made of durable stainless steel and features an anti-corrosion finish to ward off corrosion and rust. Wall-mount models, on the other hand, are a better option for homes with high ceilings and that are too large for freestanding models. They can be mounted up to 14 feet and come with a mounting set that includes a bracket and hose.
You'll need a regular check for leaks when installing an outdoor heater. A soapy water solution could be used to detect leaks, and you should be looking for signs of rust or burning. If you suspect that there is a leak, you should have a plumber or qualified technician examine the heater and make repairs if required.
It is not enough to check for leaks but also consider whether your patio is near the ocean or located in an area where there is salt air. The parts made of metal in the heater will corrode more quickly in a marine environment. It is also recommended that you install a drain pan at the bottom of your gas line to reduce the accumulation of sediment that could hinder the heater's performance and safety.
Safety
Patio heaters are popular due to their comfort and ambiance. However, it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself. For instance, you should place the heater in a ventilated area, making sure it's away from children or pets and regularly examining the heater for indications of wear or damage. Propane and natural gas heaters for patios should be only used outdoors because they release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide if inhaled.
A propane-powered patio heater uses an oil tank that has to be replaced or filled every now and then. Most gas stations and convenience shops can refill these tanks. When not in use, it is crucial to properly store the tank. It is an hazard to fire and should never be kept indoors or close to other flammable items. The propane tank must be capped when not in use and the valve shut to keep leaks from occurring.
Propane patio heaters are unstable and could tip over if not placed on a stable surface. To decrease the risk, place standing heaters on a level surface and fix them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties to keep them from falling over. Standing heaters are also more prone to tip over when winds blow, which is why they should be secured with weights to avoid this.
Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters that connects to the home's natural gas line and is cheaper to run than propane. These are also more long-lasting systems that require professional installation and should be placed in open, ventilated outdoor spaces.
Some patio heaters warm nearby surfaces using infrared rather than directly heating the air. This kind of heater is generally safer for pets and children since it doesn't emit smoke or flames, however they might not be efficient in warmer climates and aren't recommended for very large spaces. It is also vital to have a carbon monoxide detector near any patio heaters that use infrared technology. This will alert you to any harmful carbon monoxide emissions and give you the chance to remove the source before it can become a fire or health danger.
Maintenance
Regularly inspect and clean heaters for your patio regularly. It is crucial to make sure that the gas line does not have a clog and that all parts are functioning properly. It is also important to ensure that the propane tank isn't empty or overly full. This could cause the heater to function inefficiently, which could be dangerous. The burner, orifices, and pilot tube should be clean and free of carbon deposits. All openings including the venturi of the burner, must be kept free of dirt and spider webs. The stainless steel used on a patio heater will not "rust," but varying atmospheric conditions can cause brown deposits that need to be cleaned regularly.
Gas patio heaters are powerful, and based on the model, they are able to quickly warm a large area. They are ideal for outdoor spaces that can be easily moved around and are typically more expensive than electric heaters. They require natural gas or propane fuel source and should be utilized in areas that are well ventilated.
Propane patio heaters are the most popular because they are portable and easy to refill. Ideal for gazebos or covered outdoor areas as well as pergolas. They are cheaper than the other two kinds of patio heaters however they emit fumes and may be a fire hazard if not properly maintained.
The regulator or gas hose is the part that connects the propane tank and the burner unit. It is important to replace the hose on a regular basis to avoid damage and leaks. The gas regulator needs to be replaced every 10 years or so as well regardless of whether there is visible damage to the component. This is particularly important when converting from one size propane gas cylinder to another.
The most frequent issue with propane patio heaters is that the flame does not remain lit. This is usually due to the thermocouple moving 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
Natural gas patio heater s burn very efficiently and quickly. They are also very mobile and do not require a power source so they can be moved from one part of your outdoor space to another. These characteristics make them a great option for multifamily or commercial spaces.
They are easy to clean. Before you begin cleaning, ensure that the propane patio heater is turned off and cool to a comfortable temperature. This prevents you from accidentally causing damage to the unit. First remove the top cover and then take the burner assembly apart. Utilize a cotton swab to rub alcohol into the orifices and burner venturis that are inside of the burner assembly. This will help remove any 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 or lighting instructions, the valve or control knob or the cylinder for LP. These surfaces will need to be cleaned using mild soap and water solution or car wax a few times a year. This will help to protect the finish and keep it looking fresh. This is particularly crucial in areas that have high traffic or if you have outdoor space that is exposed to the weather.