A Comprehensive Guide To Gas Fired Patio Heaters From Start To Finish

Gas Fired Patio Heaters Gas-fired patio heaters are becoming more popular for residential and commercial outdoor areas. Typically, these heaters are freestanding and come with a reflector dome or shield to direct the heat upwards. These models are typically connected to a gas line and eliminate the need for propane tanks, thus reducing operating costs. However, they are less mobile than propane models and could be affected by strong winds. Efficiency Patio heaters are renowned as extending outdoor dining areas throughout the winter months, however, they also pose dangers to fire if they are not used correctly. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs warn that patio heaters can cause fires, carbon monoxide poisoning or even death if they are not installed, operated or maintained properly. There are simple steps you can follow to avoid these dangers. The first thing you should do is to check the heater's ventilation for proper functioning. Propane and natural gas patio heaters release deadly carbon monoxide. You must never use them inside or in partially enclosed areas. Do not store propane tanks inside, neither. Propane tanks are only rated to be used for a specified time period and, if stored for a long time, they could cause corrosion. If you do not use your heater, ensure that it is vented correctly or that you have a propane cover. The efficiency of heat is also influenced by the type of fuel used as well as the conditions in which it is used. These conditions are crucial, as windy weather can disperse heat and lower ambient temperatures require more energy to maintain warmth. The design of the patio heater is crucial. The design of the patio heater can affect its heating capacity and power. Freestanding models are typically less efficient than those mounted. Certain models are equipped with reflectors to help focus the heat and improve efficiency. It's also important to check their power output before you make use of them. This will ensure that they can provide enough heat for your area, and you don't end up wasting electricity or gas. For instance, you might require a greater output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) if your patio is large or you want to warm an outdoor gathering. Gas patio heaters are a popular option for restaurants, bars, and hotels. These units can be powered by liquid propane or gas and connected to the standard electrical outlets. They are usually a better option than electric patio heaters for larger spaces because they are easily controlled via remote or by a timer. They also have a better design than other commercial heaters, which makes them perfect for areas that require to appear modern and stylish. Safety Whether used at either at home or in the outdoor dining areas of restaurants, gas-fired patio heaters provide comfort that can help you enjoy cooler climates. However, they must be properly maintained and utilized to prevent injuries or fire dangers. Be sure that your heater is UL-listed or Canadian Standards Association-listed and includes a flame failure system that shuts off the gas in the event that a burner is tipping over. It's also important to read the instructions and warnings of the manufacturer, particularly those pertaining to fuel usage. A fire extinguisher should be available in the event of an accident. It is recommended to have a class B or C extinguisher, depending on the type of fuel your heater uses, as well as an empty water bucket. Gas patio heaters are typically freestanding and should be kept at least just a few feet away from flammable materials such as tent walls, gazebos and tablecloths. Also, ensure that they aren't placed in the path of an air intake or in close proximity to an exit. In addition, as the heaters are typically placed at higher elevations to spread heat over an area, they are top heavy and susceptible to falling over or tilting. Therefore, it's recommended to secure them in a method using sandbags, or water weights to help stabilize them. To ensure your security, ensure that pets and children are kept at a minimum of three feet away from any heater when they're in operation to avoid burning. It is also important to never leave them unattended or shut them off when you're not in the immediate vicinity. If you're using natural gas heaters ensure that you use only those approved by the local plumbing inspector and ensure that they're in good operating condition. Gas patio heaters are affected by wind, based on the type of fuel. If it's a propane model, strong winds could blow the cylinder off or cause the fire to go out. Natural gas or propane models with an attached hose have to be connected to a permanent line and installed outdoors to reduce the risk for fire or explosion. Comfort Patio heaters come in a range of styles and are powered by various fuel sources. The ideal patio heater for your home is based on the size of your outdoor space and the power source available and your preferences in appearance and control. Gas-powered patio heaters are able to warm an area faster and with more heat than other kinds of heaters for patios. natural gas gas patio heater , CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, says that's one of the reasons his restaurants use a lot of pyramid and dome-top patio heaters in their New York and New Jersey locations. “The high heat output enables us to keep our guests cozy while they enjoy the outdoors during the cold winter months,” he says. Another consideration is the energy efficiency of gas-powered heaters. A heater with an increased BTU rating will typically heat an area quicker and more efficiently than one with an inferior BTU rating. Multiplying the area of the outdoor space by 20 will give you the amount of BTUs required to heat it. The most popular choice of homeowners is propane-powered heaters. They offer portability and use standard 20-pound propane tanks (like those used for your grill) which can be purchased at a variety of hardware stores. But propane-powered heaters are also known to consume more electricity than other models, which makes them less green than other fuel options. Electric-powered heaters, on the contrary, require a plug into a standard power outlet in order to operate. They are also more secure than propane-powered ones, as they don't release harmful fumes, or burn like gas patio heaters. However electric patio heaters aren't as powerful as other options and are limited in terms of how they can provide heat. Natural gas-powered heaters, on the other on the other hand, are a great option for those who wish to connect their heaters for patio use to an existing natural gas line. These heaters require a professional installation and may be more expensive to operate than other heaters for patios. But natural gas heaters produce the most consistent and fast warmth of the three options, which may make it worthwhile to invest the extra money. Versatility When it comes to outdoor propane heating, there are plenty of options. It doesn't matter if select a freestanding patio heater, firepit, or restaurant-style overhead unit. The key is to adhere to the basic safety guidelines. These rules can be tricky to master, particularly when you are confronted with a flaming fire or hot ashes that can remain hot up to two days. With the right understanding however, you can be sure you're making use of your propane patio heating system properly and to the best of its capabilities. Gas patio heaters can be used to heat large areas, ranging from to 20 square meters. They can be operated on propane or natural gas and, based on the model, can be switched on and off using a remote control or scheduled by timers. They usually require at least 25% of the space open to allow for airflow and to prevent carbon monoxide build-up which could cause fatalities when not properly ventilated. Apart from the fact that they require a space to ventilate, gas patio heaters are typically extremely easy to operate and maintain. They can be erected permanently in areas that are exposed to the elements, or recessed into flat roofs. They are typically fitted with an anti-tilt switch that shuts the unit off if it detects that the unit is no longer in a straight position. On the other hand the wood-burning patio heaters are more difficult to operate and could be dangerous if not operated correctly. These heaters are difficult to operate due to the fact that they require constant fueling, and the smoke and ash have to be disposed of regularly in a secure area. They are also much more difficult to light, and they can produce sparks that can cause fire or injury. Safety should always be a priority when it comes to deciding to use and maintain your patio heater. Keep a fire extinguisher in the vicinity and encourage children to play away from the heaters. Be best gas patio heater uk of the temperature, and don't overlook any smells that could indicate a leak – both natural gas and propane contain mercaptan added to them in order to emit a sour smell if they leak.