A Guide To Gas Fired Patio Heaters From Start To Finish

Gas Fired Patio Heaters Gas patio heaters have become increasingly popular in both residential and commercial outdoor spaces. They are typically freestanding and come with a reflector shield or dome that directs radiant warmth downward. They are usually connected to gas lines and eliminate the need for propane tanks, which reduces operating costs. They are less portable and more vulnerable to high winds than propane models. Efficiency Patio heaters are popular for extending outdoor dining into the winter months. However, they can be a fire risk if they are not operated 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 correctly. The good news is that there are easy steps you can take to avoid these hazards. Make sure the heater's vents are checked first. Propane and natural gas patio heaters emit deadly carbon monoxide. You must never use them inside or in partially enclosed spaces. Never store a propane tank indoors, either. Propane tanks are only usable for so long before they begin to rust. If you do not use your heater, ensure it is vented correctly or that you have an appropriate propane cover. The type of fuel used and the conditions of the environment can affect the efficiency of heat. These conditions are crucial since windy weather can disperse heat and lower ambient temperatures require more energy to maintain warmth. Another thing to take into consideration is the design of the patio heater. The design of the patio heater could influence its heating capacity as well as power. Freestanding models tend to be less efficient than mounted models. Some models are built with reflectors that help to increase the heat output and increase efficiency. Finally, it's important to test the power output of your patio heaters before you start using them. This will ensure that they can provide enough heat for your area, and you don't waste energy or gas. You might need more British Thermal Units if you have an expansive patio or need to heat your outdoor space for an event. For restaurants, bars, hotels and other hospitality venues, the versatility of gas fired patio heaters is what makes them a preferred choice. They can be powered by natural gas or liquid propane and can be plugged into standard electrical outlets. These heaters are often more efficient than electric patio heaters in larger spaces because they can be controlled remotely or via the use of a timer. They also look better than other kinds of commercial heaters and are perfect for areas that require a modern, stylish look. Safety In the your home or in outdoor dining areas of restaurants, gas fired patio heaters offer comfort that can increase the enjoyment of cooler climates. To avoid fire hazards or injuries they must be used and maintained correctly. Before you use, ensure that your heater is UL or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certified and has a flame failure device that shuts off the gas flow in case the burner becomes unstable for any reason. It's important to also take note of the directions and cautions of the manufacturer, especially those that concern fuel use. It is also recommended to have an extinguisher for fire in case of any incidents that could occur. Also, you should have a bucket or bucket of water and a class C or B extinguisher depending on the type of fuel your heater uses. Since gas patio heaters are usually free-standing It's recommended to keep them two feet away from combustible objects like tent walls, gazebos tables, tablecloths, decorations and paper products. Also, make sure they're not placed within the path of an exit or close to any mechanical air intakes of buildings. In addition, since the heaters are generally placed at higher elevations to spread heat across a large area, they could be top heavy and susceptible to falling over or tilting. It is recommended that you anchor them using sandbags or water weights. To ensure your security, it is recommended to keep pets and children a minimum of three feet from all heaters when they're in use to avoid burns. Never leave them unattended, or shut them off when you aren't in the vicinity. Only use natural gas heaters that have been approved by your local plumber and are in good shape. Depending on the fuel source gas patio heaters can also be affected by winds. If it's a propane model an intense wind could blow the cylinder off or cause the fire to die. Natural gas and propane models with a hose attached should be connected to a permanent gas line that is installed outside to reduce the risk of explosion or fire. Comfort Patio heaters are available in a range of designs and are powered by a variety of fuel sources. The right one for your home will depend on the dimensions of the space you'd like to heat as well as the power source available and your preferences regarding appearance and control. Gas-powered patio heaters can be used to warm an area with more heat than other types of heaters for patios. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, says that's one reason his restaurants mostly use pyramid and dome-top patio heaters in their New York and New Jersey locations. β€œThe high heat output enables us to keep our customers comfortable while they relax outdoors in the cold winter months,” Bonfiglio says. The energy efficiency of a heater powered by gas is a further factor to take into account. A heater with an extremely high BTU output will typically warm an area faster and more efficiently than a heater that has a lower rating. Multiplying the square footage of the outdoor area by 20 will give you the number of BTUs required to warm it. In terms of energy sources propane-powered heaters are the most popular option for homeowners. They are portable and utilize the standard 20-pound propane tanks (like the ones used for your grill) which can be purchased at a variety of hardware stores. However, propane-powered heaters tend to consume more electricity than other models, which makes them less green than other fuel options. Electric-powered heaters on the other hand, require a plug into a standard power outlet in order to operate. They're also a safer option than propane-powered ones since they don't emit any harmful fumes and don't ignite like gas heaters for patios do. However, electric patio heaters also aren't as powerful as some of the other options and are limited in the they can generate heat. Natural gas-powered heaters, on the other on the other hand, are a great option for those who wish to connect their patio heaters to an existing natural gas line. They require professional installation and can be more expensive to run than other kinds of heaters for patios. But natural gas heaters produce the most consistent and rapid warmth of the three options, which could help justify the extra expense. Versatility There are a myriad of choices when it comes to outdoor heating with propane. It doesn't matter whether you choose a freestanding patio heater, firepit or restaurant overhead unit. The most important thing is to adhere to the basic safety rules. These rules can be difficult to master, particularly when you're dealing with a flaming flame or hot ashes that can remain hot for two full days. However, with the right knowledge, you can ensure you're using your propane patio heater safely, and maximizing its potential. Gas-fired patio heaters are a strong and efficient method of heating larger areas. They can cover up to 20m2. Gas patio heaters can be controlled with remote control or timers, or by natural gas. They typically also require a minimum of 25% of space open to allow for a regular flow of air and prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide – which can be deadly if not properly ventilated. In addition to requiring a suitable space to ventilate and a place to vent, gas patio heaters are typically extremely easy to operate and maintain. They can be permanently mounted in areas that are exposed to the elements, or placed into flat roofs. They are usually fitted with an anti-tilt switch that will shut the unit off when it detects that the heater is not in a straight position. Wood-burning patio heaters however, are more difficult to use and could be dangerous if not used in a safe manner. They are difficult to operate due to the fact that they require constant fueling and the smoke and ash have to be regularly removed from a safe area. They are also harder to ignite and can produce sparks that can cause fire or injury. Safety should be a top priority when it comes time to use and maintain your patio heater. Keep a fire extinguisher in the vicinity and remind your children to stay clear from heaters. Be gas heater for outdoor patio of the temperature, and don't ignore any unusual smells that might indicate a leak – both propane and natural gas have mercaptan added to them in order to give off a foul smell should they leak.