Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is an excellent way to keep outdoor spaces warm. Its primary benefit is that it connects to existing natural gas (NG) lines, meaning that you do not have to worry about filling propane tanks.
There are a few aspects to take into account before selecting one. This article will discuss the different options available, including the heat output, safety and installation.
Cost
You can enjoy your outdoor space all through the evening with a natural-gas patio heater. These units are available in a variety of sizes and can be mounted on walls, freestanding or mounted to a post. The ideal model should have features that make using the patio safer and easier. For example, you can locate a model with an anti-slant design which will cut off the burner if it is tilted more than 47 degrees. Some models are made of durable materials such as aluminum and stainless steel to provide strength and corrosion resistance.
These units can be powered by propane, electricity or natural gas, and produce up to 46,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs). gas patio heater regulator are plugged into 120-volt outlets that are the easiest to set up and use, but they don't heat as much as natural gas or propane ones.
Propane patio heaters look like umbrellas and come with hollow bases that hold 20-pound liquid tanks of propane similar to the ones used for gas grills. They are less expensive than the fuel for an indoor space heater, however you have to refill them often and they aren't able to be moved as easily. There are smaller propane heaters for tables designed to sit on top of tables and use 1-pound propane tanks.
The price of a natural-gas patio heater is determined by its dimensions and features, such as wheels that allow for easy mobility as well as a quick ignition and remote that has multiple settings. You can also choose from a range of finishes, such as the hammered bronze finish, resin wicker and decorative stone faces, to match your outdoor decor.
Natural-gas and electric patio heaters require a professional installation. They can't be moved easily, unlike propane and gas versions. However, they look more sturdy and work as well as an indoor space heater. You can even get an attractive model that connects to gas lines with a rigid structure for an extra stylish touch. The price of a patio heater that is powered on natural gas is typically higher than those powered by electricity or propane.
Heat Output
Pay attention to the heat output of a natural-gas patio heater when shopping. The number of BTUs indicates the warmth your guests will feel and also how long it will keep your porch and balcony warm. The bigger the area you can heat, the more the BTUs.
If your outdoor space is covered or open, a gas patio heater can help you comfortably enjoy your outdoor space all year long. The majority of models are adjustable and are powered by propane or natural gas. They can be mounted on the ceiling or walls or stand alone. If floor space is limited, opt for a portable natural gas patio heater with wheels that utilizes readily available propane tanks to power the burner. When mounting a patio heater consider options such as a gas shut-off to prevent leaks in the event that a flame is not lit or an anti-tilt design that will stop the fuel supply if the unit tilts more than 47 degrees.
The best natural gas patio heaters provide ample warmth for your patio or deck without taking up too much space. Large free-standing models that resemble floor lamps provide radiant heat across larger areas and are made of durable metal construction. Tabletop models that have a smaller footprint are ideal for small dining areas. Models that utilize natural or propane gas are available in a variety of appealing finishes.
You can also find propane and natural gas patio heaters that have a Hammered bronze resin wicker, a decorative stone face for an elegant appearance. Other features to look for include the ignition system that is a push button that shuts off the safety valve if the unit is tippy and a rotary dial control that lets you easily alter and set the flame. Some of the best propane patio heaters are constructed using stainless steel to ensure strength and durability while others are constructed from aluminum for a lighter weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are a popular method to prolong the time you spend outdoors. Patio heaters made of gas come in many styles, from those that stand by themselves and use propane tanks to those that connect to the gas line in your home. The style you pick will depend on your budget as well as how much you want to heat your space.
Propane-powered units are usually a pole or stand with an reflector dome or shield and a base that houses the 20-pound propane (LP) tank. These heaters have a wide range of power outputs, from 41,000 BTU's to more than 100,000. They have safety features including an auto shut-off valve, as well as an electronic lighter for easy starting. They also have a tip-over switch that automatically shuts off the flow of gas when the unit is tipping over.
Portable patio heaters made of LP are designed to be used outdoors on non-combustible, flat, non-slip surfaces. They should be kept at a minimum of three feet from any material that is flammable and at a minimum of 12 inches away from anything that could ignite like fences and trees. The fuel cylinder should be kept outdoors, at least three feet from any structure or structure, including stairways, doors, windows and. Check the hoses and connections of propane patio heaters for leaks frequently. You can test the connections using a solution of soapy water. Look for the UL or CSA marks on the patio heater made from propane to ensure it is in compliance with national safety standards.
A natural gas gas patio heater is connected to the natural gas line in your home and has greater BTU capacity than propane units. It is more expensive to run, but it is safer and doesn't require an additional propane tank. These units are perfect for patios in homes as well as restaurants, apartment and condominium buildings.
Whatever type of patio heaters you select ensure that they are rated for indoor use or outdoor use. Propane and natural gas patio heaters could release carbon monoxide when they are used indoors in an enclosed space, which can be fatal. Electric patio heaters don't emit any pollutants and can be used safely in a sealed space.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters are connected to the gas line in your home, so they don't require a propane tank like other kinds of outdoor heaters do. This makes them an easier and safer option than traditional propane heaters. They also don't produce as much smoke as propane heaters do. They do require professional installation and are more expensive than propane heaters.
They are a very popular feature for both residential and commercial properties and can make your patio comfortable even when temperatures dip below freezing. They are safe to use because they don't generate heat on the surface, but rather radiate heat from the inside of the silvered cover. They are also economical to run since they don't require lots of energy.
Patio heaters come in two forms: wall-mounted and freestanding. If they are wall-mounted, the heaters should be placed at least 8 feet off the ground so that no one gets in the way of the radiant heat. Freestanding heaters, on contrary, require at 14 feet in order to avoid coming into contact with combustible objects within the vicinity.
These heaters come with safety features that protect people and the property in the event of an issue. For instance, the majority of them have a tilt shut-off valve that will stop the heater from using energy (whether it is fuel or electricity) in the event that it is accidentally tilted or falls over. There is also sensors that detect flame to prevent accidental ignition.
In order to ensure that the gas heaters are safe for use in the home, a licensed plumber should be hired to install them. These professionals must be familiar with state and local plumbing and heating codes to ensure that the gas lines are properly designed to accommodate the heaters. They should also be certified to examine gas appliances for leaks.
In small patio gas to the costs of the materials and labor required to complete the gas patio heater installation additional expenses could be incurred for the removal and replacing structures or finishes that are damaged during the work. These costs include framing, surface finishes and plumbing systems. Other possible expenses could include bringing existing systems into compliance with the latest building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate for the job.