Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is a great choice for keeping outdoor areas warm. Its main benefit is that it can be connected to existing natural gas lines (NG), so you won't need to worry about refilling propane tanks.
However, there are a few factors to take into consideration before you decide on one. gas fired patio heaters will discuss the different options available, including heat output, safety and installation.
Cost
The addition of a natural gas patio heater will help you enjoy your outdoor area well into the night. These units are available in various sizes and can be wall-mounted, freestanding or mounted to a post. The right model will also include features that will make using your patio more secure and easy. For example, you can find a unit that has an anti-slant feature that will shut off the burner if it tilts more than 47 degrees. Some models are made of robust materials like aluminium and stainless steel to provide durability and resistance to corrosion.
These units are powered by natural gas, propane or electricity and generate a maximum of 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models plug into 120-volt outlets that are the easiest to set up and operate however they don't heat as much as natural gas or propane ones.
Propane patio heaters resemble umbrellas and come with hollow bases that can hold tanks of propane that weigh 20 pounds similar to the ones used in gas grills. The tanks are cheaper than the fuel used 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 propane heaters on tables that are designed to sit on tabletops and hold propane tanks that are camp-style.
The cost of a natural gas patio heater is determined by its size and features, like wheels for easy mobility as well as a quick ignition and remote that has various settings. You can choose from a variety of finishes to complement your outdoor decor, including the hammered brass, resin wicker and decorative stone faces.
Natural-gas-burning and electric patio heaters that are hardwired need professional installation and can't be moved as easily as propane and gas versions, but they do have a more lasting appearance and function just like an indoor space heater. You can get a stylish model that threads through rigid gas lines to give it a stylish touch. However, the cost of a natural gas patio heater is typically higher than those running on electricity or propane.
Heat Output
When shopping for a natural gas patio heater, pay special attention to the heat output. The amount of BTUs reflects the warmth that your guests will feel and also how long it can keep your porch and balcony warm. The larger the space you can heat, the greater the BTUs.
No matter if your outdoor space is open or covered and sunny, gas patio heaters can allow you to enjoy the outdoors year-round. The majority of models are adjustable and operate on propane or natural gas. They can be free-standing or hung on the ceiling or wall. If you're limited on space for floor space, you might want to look into a portable natural gas patio heater with wheels powered by propane tanks. When mounting an outdoor heater, look for options like gas shut-offs to avoid leaks if the flame goes out or an anti-tilt feature that shuts off the supply of fuel when the heater is tilted over 47 degrees.
The best natural gas patio heaters deliver plenty of warmth and don't take up too much space on the deck or in your backyard. Large free-standing models that resemble floor lamps provide radiant heat over larger areas, and have a sturdy metal construction. Tabletop models with a smaller footprint are ideal for small dining spaces. Models that utilize natural or propane gas are available in a variety of appealing finishes.
For a more upscale appearance, you can choose outdoor heaters that run on natural gas or propane, and have an hammered-bronze or resin-wicker front, or decorative stone front. You should look for features like a push-button starter and a safety valve which automatically shuts off when the unit is tipped over, and 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 durability and strength while others are made from aluminum for a lighter weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are a popular method to extend the time you spend in your outdoor space. The gas patio heaters are available in a variety of styles, from those that stand alone and use a propane tank to others that connect to the gas line in your home. The kind you pick depends on your budget as well as how much you want to heat your space.
Propane-fueled units are typically a pole or stand with a reflector dome or shield and a base which houses a 20-pound propane (LP) tank. They come with a wide range of power output, from 41,000 BTU's to more than 100,000. They are equipped with safety features, such as an auto shut-off valve, as well as an electronic lighter for quick starting. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off the gas flow when the unit is tipped over.
Portable LP gas patio heaters should be used outside on flat, hard, noncombustible surfaces. They must be kept at least three feet from any combustible object and at least 12 inches away from any object that can catch fire, such as fences and trees. The fuel cylinder should be kept outdoors, at least three feet from any building or structure, including stairs, doors, windows and. Check the hoses and connections of propane patio heaters for leaks regularly. You can test the connections by using a solution of soapy water. Check for the UL or CSA marks on a patio heater constructed from propane to ensure it meets national safety standards.
A natural gas patio heater is connected to your home's gas line. It has an increased BTU rating when in comparison to propane units. It's more expensive to run, however it's safer and doesn’t require an additional propane tank. These units are great for patios in residential buildings, restaurants and apartment and condominium buildings.
Whatever type of patio heater you choose, you should make sure it is suitable for use in open or indoor spaces. Natural gas and propane patio heaters can release carbon monoxide if they are installed indoors in a closed space, which can be fatal. 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 the gas line that is already in the home, so they don't require a propane tank as other types of outdoor heaters do. This makes them a much more convenient and safer option than traditional propane heaters. They also emit less smoke than propane heaters. However, they require professional installation and come at a a higher cost than propane heaters do.
These heaters are popular for both commercial and residential properties. They can make your patio more pleasant, even in the event that temperatures drop below freezing. They are extremely safe to use as they don't release heat from the surface of the heater, but instead radiate heat from the inside of the hood, which is silver-colored. They are also economical to run since they don't require a large amount of electricity.
Patio heaters can either be wall-mounted or freestanding. If they are wall-mounted, the heaters should be placed at least 8 feet off the ground, so that people don't get in the way of the heat radiating from them. Freestanding heaters require a minimum clearance of 14 feet to prevent the spread of combustible substances in the area.
These heaters have built-in security features that protect the user and property in the event of an issue. Most heaters have an automatic shut-off valve for tilt that stops the heater from using electricity or fuel if it accidentally slides or tilts. They also include a flame sensor that detects the presence of flames 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 must be familiar with the local and state plumbing codes and heating codes to ensure that gas lines are sized appropriately for the heaters. They should be trained to detect gas leaks in appliances.
In addition to the expense of the materials and labor required to complete the gas patio heater installation Other expenses could be incurred for the removal or replacing any structures or finishes that are damaged during the process. These expenses include framing, surface finishing and plumbing systems. Other possible expenses could include bringing existing systems into compliance with current building codes. These expenses should be included as part of the overall estimate.