Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is a great way to keep outdoor spaces warm. Its main advantage is that it connects to existing natural gas (NG) lines, which means you do not have to think about refilling propane tanks.
However, there are a few things to consider before you choose one. This article will go over the various options, including heat output and safety, in addition to installation.
Cost
The addition of a natural gas patio heater will allow you to relax in your outdoor space well into the night. These heaters are available in different sizes and can be mounted on walls freestanding or affixed to the post. The best model should include features that make patio use safer and easier. For example, you can choose a model that has an anti-slant design that will shut off the burner if it is tilted by more than 47 degrees. Some models are also made from durable materials like aluminum and stainless steel to provide durability and resistance to corrosion.
These units can be powered by electricity, propane or natural gas, and produce up to 46,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs). Electric models are plugged into 120-volt outlets, which are the most simple to set up and use however they don't heat as well as natural gas or propane ones.
Propane patio heaters resemble umbrellas and feature hollow bases that can hold 20-pound propane tanks that are liquid similar to the ones used for gas grills. They are less expensive however they have to be refilled frequently and can't easily be moved. There are also smaller tabletop propane heaters designed to sit on top of tabletops and use propane tanks of 1 pound.
The cost of a natural gas patio heater is contingent on its size and the features it has, such as an automatic shut-off, a wheel for easy mobility, a rapid ignition and a remote with different settings. You can also pick from a wide variety of finishes, including the hammered bronze finish, resin wicker and decorative stone facing to match your outdoor decor.
Natural-gas-burning and electric patio heaters that are hardwired need professional installation and can't be moved like propane and gas models, but they have a more permanent look and work just like an indoor space heater. There's even a snazzy looking model that connects to rigid gas lines to add a stylish accent. However, the cost of a natural-gas patio heater is typically more expensive than those that run on propane or electricity.
Heat Output
When you are looking for a natural gas patio heater, pay special focus on the power output. The number of BTUs it produces reflects how warm it will make your guests and also how many hours it will keep your porch or balcony warm. The higher the number of BTUs, the larger your area will be heated.
Gas patio heaters can be used to enjoy the outdoors all year long regardless of whether your property is covered or not. The majority of models are adjustable and operate on propane or natural gas. They can be hung on the ceiling or walls, or they can stand alone. If floor space is limited, opt for a portable natural gas patio heater that has wheels that uses propane tanks that are readily available to power the burner. Look for features like gas shutoffs to avoid leaks in the event of a flame going out, or an anti-tilt feature that shuts off the fuel supply immediately when the unit tilts over 47 degrees.
The best natural-gas patio heaters offer plenty of warmth to your deck or backyard without taking up much space. The huge freestanding models, which look like floor lamps, offer radiant warmth to a larger area and are constructed from sturdy metal. Tabletop models that have small footprints are ideal in small dining spaces. Models that use natural or propane gas are available in a range of appealing finishes.
For a more upscale look, there are patio heaters that utilize natural gas or propane, and have a hammered-bronze, resin-wicker or a decorative stone front. You should look for features like an electric starter button, a safety valve that automatically shuts off the unit when it is tipped over, and rotary dial controls to easily adjust and set the flame. Some of the top propane patio heaters are made with stainless steel to ensure strength and durability while others are made from aluminum for a lighter weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters can be a great way to extend your time outside. Gas patio heaters come in many styles, from those that stand alone and use a propane tank to others that are connected to your home's gas line. The type of heater you select will depend on your budget and the amount you wish to heat.
Propane-fueled units are typically a pole or stand with a reflector dome, or shield and a base which is able to hold a 20-pound propane (LP) tank. They are available in a variety of power outputs, ranging from 41,000 BTUs to over 100,000. They are equipped with safety features, such as an auto shut-off valve and an electronic lighter for easy igniting. They also have a tip-over switch that automatically shuts off the flow of gas if the unit tip over.
Portable LP gas patio heaters should only be used outside on flat, hard non-combustible 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 even trees. The fuel cylinder should always be kept outside and at least three feet from any windows, stairways, building and doors. Check the hose and connection points of a propane patio heater for leaks frequently. You can test the connections with a solution of soapy water. Look for buying patio gas or CSA mark on propane patio heaters to make sure it meets the safety standards of the nation.
A natural gas patio heater is connected to the gas line in your home. It has an increased BTU rating when than propane units. It's more expensive to run, however it is safer and doesn't require an additional propane tank. These units are great for outdoor patios, restaurant patios and common areas of apartment and condominium buildings.
No matter what type of patio heater you select, you should make sure it is rated for outdoor or indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heaters could release carbon monoxide when they are used indoors in an enclosed space, and this could cause fatal harm. Electric patio heaters, on the contrary, don't release any pollutant and can be employed in a closed space.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters are connected to your gas line in your home, so they don't require a propane tank like other types of outdoor heaters do. This makes them a more convenient and safe alternative to traditional propane heaters. They also emit less smoke than propane heaters. However, they require professional installation and are higher costs than propane heaters do.
They are a very popular addition to both residential and commercial properties. They can keep your patio a comfortable place to be even when the temperatures drop below freezing. They are extremely safe to use as they do not emit heat at the exterior of the heater, rather, they emit heat from the inside of the hood that is silvered. These heaters are very energy efficient as they do not require a lot of electricity.
Patio heaters are available in two varieties that are wall-mounted and freestanding. When wall-mounted, they should be mounted at minimum 8 feet above ground to ensure that no one is within the path of radiant heat. Freestanding heaters, on the other hand, require a clearance of at least 14 feet to avoid contact with combustible objects in the area.
They come with security features that protect the user and the property in the event of an issue. For example, most have a tilt shut-off valve that will stop the heater from using energy (whether it's electricity or fuel) if it is accidentally tilted or falls over. They also have a flame sensor which detects the presence of flames to prevent accidental ignition.
In order to ensure that the gas heaters are safe to use in the home, a licensed plumber should be employed to install them. They must be acquainted with the local and state plumbing codes and heating codes to ensure that gas lines are constructed correctly to accommodate the heaters. They should also be trained to inspect gas appliances for leaks.
In addition to the costs of the materials and labor needed to complete the installation of a gas patio heater, other expenses may be incurred for removing, replacing or repairing any structures or finishes that are damaged during the process. These include framing, surface finishes, and plumbing systems. These costs could also comprise upgrading existing systems to meet current building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate of the project.