Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heat is a great choice to keep outdoor spaces warm. Its primary benefit is that it can be connected to existing natural gas (NG) lines, meaning that you don't have to worry about refilling propane tanks.
However there are some factors to take into consideration before deciding on a. This article will discuss the various options, including the heat output and security, as well as installation.
Cost
A natural gas patio heater can allow you to make the most of your outdoor space into the night. These units are available in a variety of sizes and can be mounted on walls freestanding, or attached to a post. The best model will have features that can make using your patio safer and easier. For instance, you can locate a model with an anti-slant feature that will shut off the burner if it tilts more than 47 degrees. Some models are made from durable materials like aluminum and stainless steel to provide strength and corrosion resistance.
These units are powered by propane, natural gas or electricity and produce a maximum of about 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models plug directly into standard 120-volt outlets. They are the simplest and most user-friendly however they do not heat as much as natural gas or propane ones.
Propane patio heaters look like umbrellas and come with hollow bases that can hold tanks of propane that weigh 20 pounds similar to the ones used for gas grills. The tanks are less expensive than the fuel used in an indoor space heater, however they require refills frequently and they can't 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 is contingent on its dimensions and the features it comes with like an automatic shut-off, wheels for effortless mobility, a rapid ignition and a remote with different settings. You can also select from a wide range of finishes, such as the hammered bronze finish, resin wicker and decorative stone faces, to complement your outdoor décor.
Natural-gas and electric patio heaters require expert installation. They aren't movable easily as gas and propane models. However, they look more durable and function as well as a space heater for indoor use. There's even one with a stylish design that connects to gas lines that are rigid to add a stylish accent. However, the price of a natural-gas patio heater will typically be higher than those that run on electricity or propane.
Heat Output
Pay attention to the heat output of a natural-gas patio heater when shopping. The number of BTUs indicates the warmth your guests will feel and also how long it can keep your porch and balcony warm. The greater the number of BTUs the more area can be heated.
Gas patio heaters can be used to enjoy the outdoors all year long regardless of whether your location is covered or not. The majority of models have adjustable temperature settings and run on natural gas or propane. They can be hung on the ceiling or walls or stand on their own. When floor space is limited, choose a portable natural gas patio heater with wheels that makes use of propane tanks that are readily available to fuel the burner. Look for features like a gas shutoff to prevent leaks in the event of a flame being sparked, or an anti-tilt feature that shuts off the supply of fuel automatically when the unit is tilted more than 47 degrees.
The most efficient natural gas patio heaters deliver ample warmth without taking up too much room on a 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 small footprints are ideal in dining rooms with small spaces. Models that use natural or propane gas are available in a range of attractive finishes.
There are propane and natural gas patio heaters with a hammered bronze resin wicker, a decorative stone faces to give them an upscale appearance. Other features to look out for include an ignition button that can be pushed that shuts off the safety valve if the unit tips over and a rotary dial control that allows you to easily alter and set the flame. The best propane patio heaters are made from stainless steel for durability and strength, while others are constructed from aluminum for a lighter weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are a great way to extend your time outdoors. The gas patio heaters are available in many styles, from ones that stand on their own and use a propane tank to others that are connected to the gas line in your home. The style you pick will depend on your budget and the amount you'd like to heat your home.
Propane-fueled units are typically a stand or pole with an reflector dome or shield and a base which holds the 20-pound propane (LP) tank. They are available in a variety of power outputs ranging from 41,000 BTUs to over 100,000. These heaters come with safety features such as an automatic shut-off valve and an electronic lighter that enable easy ignition. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off gas flow when the unit is tip-over.
Portable gas patio heaters should only be used outdoors on hard, flat, noncombustible surfaces. They should be at least three feet from all combustible materials and kept at least 12 inches from anything that could ignite including fences and trees. The fuel cylinder should be kept outside and at least three feet away from windows, stairs, buildings and doors. Examine the hose and connections of a propane patio heater for leaks regularly. You can test these connections by using the use of a soapy water solution. Look for the UL or CSA mark on a propane patio heater to ensure it is in compliance with the safety standards of the nation.
A natural gas patio heater is connected to the gas line in your home. It has a higher BTU rating than propane heaters. It can be more expensive to operate, but it is much more secure and doesn't need the replacement of propane tanks. These units are ideal for outdoor patios, restaurant patios and common areas of apartment and condominium buildings.
Whatever type of patio heater you pick be sure that it is rated for use in open or indoor spaces. Propane and natural gas patio heaters could release carbon monoxide when they are used indoors in an enclosed space, and this can cause fatal harm. Electric patio heaters on the contrary, don't release any pollutants and can be safely utilized in a sealed area.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters are connected to the gas line in your home. electric patio heater vs gas don't require a propane tank, like other kinds of outdoor heating. This makes them a much more convenient and safer alternative to traditional propane heaters. They also emit less smoke than propane heaters. They require professional installation and are more expensive than propane heaters.
They are a very popular accessory for both residential and commercial properties and can make your patio comfortable even when the temperatures drop below freezing. They are extremely safe to use because they don't emit heat directly from the surface of the heater instead, they radiate heat from inside the hood that is silvered. They are extremely energy efficient as they do not require lots of electricity.
Patio heaters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. If they are wall-mounted, the heaters should be placed at least 8 feet off the ground to ensure that no one gets in the way of the heat radiating from them. Freestanding heaters require minimum clearance of 14 feet in order to prevent the spread of combustible substances in the area.
These heaters come with security features that protect the user and their property in the event of an issue. The majority of heaters have an off valve for tilt that will stop the heater from consuming fuel or electricity if it accidentally falls or tilts. They also have a flame sensor that detects the presence of flame to avoid accidental ignition.
In order to ensure that the gas heaters are safe to use in the home, a licensed plumber should be hired to install them. These professionals must be familiar with local and state plumbing and heating codes to ensure that the gas lines are properly calibrated to the heaters. They should be certified to check for gas leaks in appliances.
Other expenses could be added to the materials and labor costs associated with the installation of a gas patio heater. This includes removing and replacing any damaged surfaces or structures. These expenses include framing, surface finishes and plumbing systems. Other expenses that could be incurred include the process of bringing existing systems in line with the latest building codes. These expenses should be included as part of the total estimate.