Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is an excellent method to keep outdoor areas warm. Its main benefit is that it can be connected to existing natural gas (NG) lines, which means you do not have to think about filling propane tanks.
However there are a few factors to take into consideration before deciding on a. This article will go over the various options available including heat output, safety and installation.
Cost
You can enjoy your outdoor space well into the evening with a natural-gas patio heater. These units are available in different sizes and can be mounted on walls freestanding, or attached to the post. The best model should include features that make outdoor use more secure and easy. For instance, you could choose a model that has an anti-slant feature that will stop the burner when it tilts 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 about 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models plug into 120-volt outlets that are the easiest to set up and use but they don't provide have the same heating power as propane or natural gas ones.
Propane patio heaters resemble umbrellas and have hollow bases that hold 20-pound liquid tanks of propane similar to the ones used in gas grills. The tanks are cheaper than the fuel used for an indoor space heater, however you must refill them frequently and they aren't able to be moved as easily. There are also smaller propane heaters that are tabletop designed to sit on top of tabletops and use 1-pound propane tanks.
The cost of a natural gas patio heater depends on its size and the features it has including an automatic shut-off, wheels for effortless mobility, a rapid ignition and a remote with various settings. You can pick from a variety of finishes to complement your outdoor decor, including resin wicker, hammered brass and decorative stone facing.
Natural-gas and electric patio heaters require a professional installation. They aren't movable easily, unlike propane and gas versions. However, they look more permanent and work just as well as a space heater. You can also get an attractive model that is able to be plugged into gas lines that are rigid to add a stylish accent. The price of a patio heater that runs on natural gas is usually higher than those powered by propane or electricity.
Heat Output
Pay attention to the heat output of natural-gas patio heaters when shopping. The amount of BTUs will determine the warmth your guests will feel and also how long it can keep your porch and balcony warm. The larger the space you can heat, the more the BTUs.
Gas patio heaters can be used to enjoy the outdoors throughout the year, whether your area is covered or not. Most models are adjustable and run on propane or natural gas. They can be a freestanding unit or hung on the ceiling or wall. If you're limited on space for floor space, you might want to think about a portable natural-gas patio heater powered by readily available propane tanks. When mounting an outdoor heater consider options such as a gas shut-off to prevent leaks in the event that the flame is not lit or an anti-tilt design that automatically stops the fuel supply when the heater is tilted over 47 degrees.
The best natural gas patio heaters offer plenty of warmth and don't take up too much room on the deck or in your backyard. Large freestanding models that resemble floor lamps provide radiant heat over larger areas and are made of durable metal construction. Tabletop models that have a small footprint work well in intimate dining areas. Models that use natural or propane gas are available in a variety of appealing finishes.
You can even find propane and natural gas patio heaters with a Hammered bronze, resin wicker or decorative stone face for an elegant appearance. Other features to look for include an ignition button that can be pushed and an auto shut-off safety valve in the event that the unit tips over and a rotary dial control that lets you easily adjust and set the flame. Some of the top propane patio heaters are constructed with stainless steel to ensure durability and strength and others are constructed of aluminum for a lighter weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are a popular method to prolong the time you spend in your outdoor space. Patio heaters made of gas come in a variety of styles, from those that stand alone and use a propane tank to others that connect to the gas line of your home. The kind of heater you pick will depend on your budget and the amount you want to heat.
Propane-fueled heaters are usually mounted on a pole, stand or shield that has the addition of a reflector or shield. black gas patio heater is able to hold a 20-pound tank of propane (LP). They come with a wide range of power outputs between 41,000 BTU's and more than 100,000. These heaters come with safety features such as an automatic shut-off valve and an electronic lighter to enable easy ignition. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off gas flow when the unit is tip-over.
Portable patio heaters LP are intended to be used outdoors on flat, noncombustible, non-slip surfaces. They should be at least three feet from all combustible objects and be kept at least 12 inches from anything that could ignite, including fences and trees. The fuel cylinder should be stored outdoors, at a minimum of three feet from any structure or structure, including stairways windows, and doors. Check the hose and connection points of propane patio heaters for leaks regularly. You can test the connections using a solution of soapy water. Look for the UL or CSA mark on the propane patio heater to ensure it is in compliance with the safety standards of the national standard.
A natural gas gas patio heater connects to your home's natural gas line and offers more BTU than propane heaters. It can be more expensive to operate but it's more secure and doesn't require the replacement of a propane tank. These units are great for residential patios, restaurant patios, and common areas of apartment and condominium buildings.
No matter what style of patio heaters you choose be sure that they are approved for indoor use or outdoor use. If propane or natural gas patio heaters are used in a closed space, they could release dangerous carbon monoxide. Electric patio heaters don't emit any pollutants and can be used safely in a closed space.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters are connected to the gas line in your home. They don't need tanks for propane, as do other kinds of outdoor heating. This makes them a more convenient and safer option than traditional propane heaters. They also don't produce more smoke than propane heaters emit. They do require professional installation, and are more expensive than propane heaters.
These heaters are widely used in both residential and commercial properties. They can make your patio more comfortable even when temperatures fall below freezing. They are safe to use because they don't release heat onto the surface, but instead radiate heat into the interior of the silvered cover. These heaters are also very efficient to run because they don't consume an excessive amount of electricity.
Patio heaters come in two forms that are wall-mounted and freestanding. If they are wall-mounted the heaters must be at minimum 8 feet from the ground, so that people don't get in the way of the radiant heat. Freestanding heaters require a minimum clearance of 14 feet in order to avoid combustible materials in the area.
They come with security features that protect the user and their property in the event of a malfunction. For instance, the majority of them come with a tilt shut-off valve that will stop the heater from using energy (whether it's fuel or electricity) if it accidentally tilts or falls over. They also have a flame sensor which detects the presence of flame to stop accidental ignition.
In order to ensure that the gas heaters are safe for use, a licensed plumber should be employed to install them. These professionals should be familiar with state and local plumbing codes and heating codes in order to ensure that gas lines are constructed appropriately to accommodate the heaters. They should also be certified to inspect gas appliances for leaks.
Other expenses may be added to the materials and labor costs of the installation of a gas patio heater. This includes removing or replacing any damaged structures or finishes. These include framing, surface finishes and plumbing systems. These costs could also include upgrading existing systems to meet current building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate.