7 Tricks To Help Make The Most Out Of Your Natural Gas Gas Patio Heater
Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is a great method to keep outdoor areas warm. Its main advantage is that it connects to existing natural gas (NG) lines, which means you don't have to worry about refilling propane tanks.
However there are some factors to take into consideration before you decide on one. This article will examine the various choices, including heat output and security, as well as the installation.
Cost
You can enjoy your outdoor space all through the evening by installing a natural-gas patio heater. These heaters are available in various sizes and can be wall-mounted freestanding or affixed to a post. The right model will also come with features that can help make your patio more secure and less hassle. For instance, you could choose a model that has an anti-slant feature that will shut off the burner if it is tilted by more than 47 degrees. Some models are also made of durable materials such as aluminum and stainless steel to provide durability and resistance to corrosion.
They are powered by propane, natural gas or electricity, and produce a maximum of 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models plug into 120-volt outlets, which are the most simple to set up and use but they don't provide heat as well as propane or natural gas ones.
Propane patio heaters are high and umbrella-like. They typically have an open base that houses tanks of propane that weigh 20 pounds similar to those you'd use to fuel gas grills. The tanks are cheaper than the fuel for an indoor space heater, but you have to refill them often and they aren't able to be moved as easily. There are also smaller tabletop propane heaters designed to sit on top of tables and use 1-pound propane tanks.
The cost of a natural gas patio heater is contingent on its dimensions and the features it has including an automatic shut-off, a wheel for easy mobility, a quick ignition and a remote control with multiple settings. You can also choose from a range of finishes, such as resin wicker, hammered bronze and decorative stone facing, to complement your outdoor decor.
Natural-gas-burning and electric patio heaters that are hardwired require a professional installation and can't be moved as easily as propane and gas models, however they do have a more lasting appearance and function just like an indoor space heater. There's even a snazzy looking model that is able to be plugged into rigid gas lines to add a stylish accent. However, the price of a natural gas patio heater is typically higher than those that run on electricity or propane.
Heat Output
When looking for a natural gas patio heater, pay particular focus on the power output. The number of BTUs it produces is an indication of how warm the heater will make your guests feel, and also how long it can keep your patio or balcony cozy. The greater the number of BTUs the more space can be heated.
Gas patio heaters can be used to enjoy the outdoors all year round regardless of whether your location is covered or not. Most models have adjustable heat settings and operate on either natural gas or propane. They can be free-standing or hung on the ceiling or wall. If floor space is limited, choose a portable natural gas patio heater with wheels that utilizes propane tanks that are readily available to power the burner. When mounting the heater on a patio, look for options like gas shut-offs to prevent leaks if the flame fails to ignite or an anti-tilt feature that automatically stops the fuel supply if the unit tilts more than 47 degrees.
The best natural gas patio heaters offer plenty of warmth for your patio or deck without taking up much space. The large models that are freestanding that look like floor lamps, offer radiant warmth to a larger area and are constructed of durable metal. Tabletop models with a small footprint work well in dining rooms with small spaces. Models that utilize natural or propane gas are available in a range of attractive finishes.
There are propane and natural gas patio heaters with a Hammered bronze, resin wicker or decorative stone faces for an upscale appearance. Look for small patio gas as the push-button starter and a safety valve which automatically shuts off when the unit is tipped over, as well as the ability to use rotary dials to adjust the flame and set it. Some of the top propane patio heaters are crafted from stainless steel for strength and durability and others are constructed of aluminum for a lighter weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters can be a great method to extend your time outside. They come in a variety of styles, from free-standing models that contain propane tanks to those that connect to your home's natural gas line. The style you pick will depend on your budget as well as how much you want to heat your home.
Propane-fueled heaters are usually an upright, pole or shield with the addition of a reflector or shield. The base holds the propane tank that weighs 20 pounds (LP). These heaters offer a broad range of power output between 41,000 BTU's and more than 100,000. They come with safety features like an auto shut-off valve as well as an electronic lighter for quick ignition. They also have a tip-over switch that automatically shuts off the flow of gas if the unit tips over.
Portable LP patio heaters are only to be used outdoors on non-combustible, flat, non-slip surfaces. They should be kept at least three feet from all combustible materials and be kept at least 12 inches away from anything that could catch fire including fences and trees. The fuel cylinder should be kept outdoors, at least three feet away from any building or structure, including stairways windows, and doors. Check the hoses and connection points of a propane patio heater for leaks frequently. You can test the connections using a solution of soapy water. Look for the UL or CSA mark on the propane patio heater to be sure it meets national safety standards.
A natural gas patio heater is connected to the gas line in your home. It has more BTU when compared to propane heaters. It may be more expensive to operate, but it is much safer and doesn't require the replacement of a propane tank. These units are ideal for patios in homes as well as restaurants, apartment and condominium buildings.
No matter what style of patio heaters you choose, make sure they are rated for indoor use or outdoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heaters could release carbon monoxide when they are used indoors in an enclosed space, and this can cause fatal harm. Electric patio heaters do not emit any pollutants, and are safe to use in a sealed space.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters are connected to your gas line that is already in the home, so they don't require a propane tank like other types of outdoor heaters do. This makes them a safer and more convenient alternative to propane heaters that are traditional. They also don't produce as much smoke as propane heaters do. However, they will require professional installation and come at a a higher cost than propane heaters.
These heaters are popular in both residential and commercial buildings. They can make your patio more comfortable, even when temperatures fall below freezing. These heaters are very safe to use as they do not emit heat at the exterior of the heater, but instead radiate heat from inside the silvered hood. These heaters are very efficient in that they do not require lots of electricity.
Patio heaters come in two types that are wall-mounted and freestanding. If wall-mounted, they must be placed at least 8 feet above the ground to ensure that people are not in the path of the radiant heat. Freestanding heaters, on other hand, need an area of at minimum 14 feet to avoid contact with any combustible items in the area.
These heaters have built-in security features that protect the user and property in the event of a malfunction. For instance, the majority of them include a tilt shut-off device that causes the heater to stop using power (whether it is fuel or electricity) if it happens to tilt or fall over. They also have a flame sensor which detects the presence of flame to avoid accidental ignition.
To ensure that gas heaters are safe to use, it is recommended to employ a licensed plumber to do the installation. They must be acquainted with state and local plumbing codes and heating codes to ensure that gas lines are sized correctly for the heaters. They should also be trained to inspect gas appliances for leaks.
Other expenses may be incurred in addition to the materials and labor costs for the gas patio heater install. These could include the removal and replacing any damaged surfaces or structures. These costs include framing, surface finishing and plumbing systems. Other expenses that could be incurred include the process of bringing existing systems in line with the latest building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate of the project.