10 Patio Heater Natural Gas Tricks All Experts Recommend
Natural Gas Patio Heaters Natural gas patio heaters permit you to provide warmth to customers outside long after the seasons change, and can increase the profitability of your business. They require little maintenance and can last for years. Follow all instructions from the manufacturer for testing, servicing and lighting. A trained technician should fix any leaks. Installation Unlike propane models, natural gas patio heaters are linked directly to your home's natural gas line, making them more stable than portable heaters. The heaters are more efficient in heating and can be placed in larger spaces because they can be used with multiple pipes. They require a professional installation to ensure proper size 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 number of BTUs (billion british thermal units) you'll require to heat the space. To figure this out, you can use a simple math formula that involves multiplying the area of your outdoor space by the desired temperature increase. Divide the result by the maximum BTUs that your patio heater can generate to determine the number of units you'll require. Patio heaters can be mounted on the wall or freestanding. Freestanding models usually have wheels for easy mobility, and can also accommodate a table or other surface under the burner head. The base is made from stainless steel, with a protective finish that resists corrosion and rust. Wall-mount units are a better option for areas with high ceilings or are too big to use freestanding models. They can be mounted up to 14 feet high and come with an installation kit that includes a bracket as well as quick couplers, hoses and a shut off valve. If you are installing a gas patio heater for your outdoor space, you'll need to check for leaks regularly. You can spot them with a soapy water solution. Also, look for signs of rusting or burning. If you suspect there is a leak in your heater, have an experienced plumber or technician inspect it and make any repairs that are required. It is not enough to just look for leaks, but also think about whether your patio is near the ocean or located in an area with salt air. This could cause the metallic parts of the heater to corrode at a faster rate than the parts in non-ocean settings. Install a drain pan on the bottom of the gas line to prevent the accumulation of sediment. This could affect the heater's performance and safety. Safety Many people choose to use patio heaters for warmth and ambience, however it's important to remember to take some safety precautions. Set the heater in a place that is well ventilated, keep it away from children and pets and examine the heater on a regular basis for signs of wear or damage. Natural gas or propane patio heaters are only to be used outdoors because they emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide if inhaled. A propane-powered patio heater has tanks for fuel that need to be replaced or filled every now and then. The majority of gas stations and convenience shops can refill these tanks. It is important to store the tank properly when not in use, because it's a fire risk and should not be stored inside or in close proximity to other objects that are flammable. When not in use the propane tank needs to be sealed and the valve should be shut to prevent leaks. Propane patio heaters are unstable and may tip over if not placed on a level surface. To reduce the risk, place standing heaters on a level surface and fix them with bungee cords or heat-resistant ties in order to prevent them from falling over. Standing heaters may also tip over more easily if there is an intense wind, so weights are recommended to stop this. Some people prefer natural gas patio heaters, which connects to the home's natural gas line and is more affordable to operate than propane. These are permanent heaters that require a professional installation. They should be installed in outdoor areas that are well-ventilated. Some patio heaters heat nearby surfaces using infrared instead of directly heating the air. More about the author of heater is generally safe for pets and children since it doesn't emit flames or fumes. However, they may not be effective in colder climates and are not recommended for areas with large dimensions. It's also crucial to install a carbon monoxide alarm near the patio heaters that utilize infrared technology. This will notify you of any harmful carbon monoxide emissions, and provide you a chance to extinguish the source before it becomes a health or fire risk. Maintenance Regularly inspect and clean the heaters on your patio. It is crucial to make sure that the gas line doesn't have a clog and that all components are functioning properly. Also, make sure the propane tank does not have a empty or full level. 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. The venturi of the burner and the other openings must be free of spider webs and dirt. The stainless steel on a patio heater will not “rust,” but varying conditions in the weather can cause brown deposits that need to be cleaned regularly. Gas patio heaters are extremely powerful and can quickly warm up a large area depending on the model. They are great for outdoor spaces and can be moved easily. They are usually 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 due to the fact that they are portable and easy to refill. They are ideal for pergolas, gazebos, and other outdoor spaces that are covered. These patio heaters are less expensive, however they produce fumes and pose an ignition risk in the event that they are not properly maintained. The gas hose or regulator is the connecting part between the propane tank and the burner unit. To avoid damage and leaks it is essential to replace your hose on a regular basis. Gas regulators should be replaced at least every 10 years, regardless of visible damage. This is especially important when switching from one propane cylinder size to another. The most common problem with propane patio heaters is that the flame does not stay 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 components closer together. Cleaning Natural gas patio heaters burn easily and quickly. They are highly mobile, and do not require power sources. They can be moved around your outdoor space. These features make them a great choice for residential or commercial spaces. These heaters are easy to clean. Before you begin cleaning, ensure that the propane patio heater is turned off and is cooled to a comfortable temperature. This prevents you from accidently damaging the unit. First remove the top cover, then take the burner assembly apart. Make use of a cotton swab rub alcohol onto the venturis and orifices that are located inside the burner assembly. This will help in removing any spider webs and dust that have accumulated. If you've already painted the exterior of your natural gas heater, ensure that you do not paint the grid of the emitter or lighting instructions. Also, do not paint the valve or control knob or the LP cylinder. These surfaces should be cleaned with water and soap, or car wax at least a few times a year. This will help to protect the finish and keep it looking fresh. This is especially crucial in areas that are prone to traffic or in areas where your outdoor space is exposed to the elements.