Why Natural Gas Gas Patio Heater Is Everywhere This Year
Natural Gas Patio Heater A natural gas patio heater is a great option for keeping outdoor spaces warm. Its primary advantage is that it can be connected to existing natural gas lines (NG), so you don't have to worry about refilling propane tanks. However, there are a few things to consider before you choose one. This article will examine the various options, including heat output and safety, in addition to installation. Cost The addition of a natural gas patio heater will make it easier to relax in your outdoor space well into the night. These heaters can be freestanding, wall-mounted or anchored via a post in the ground. They are available in various sizes to warm larger spaces. The best model should contain features that make using the patio more secure and easy. You can find units with an anti-slant feature that will shut off the burner whenever it tilts more than 47 degrees. Certain models are also constructed from durable materials like aluminum and stainless steel for durability and resistance to corrosion. They can be powered by propane, electricity or natural gas, and produce up to 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 provide the same heat as natural gas or propane models. Propane patio heaters are tall and umbrella-like. They typically have hollow bases that hold tanks of propane that weigh 20 pounds similar to those you would use for a gas grill. The tanks are less expensive but they need to be refilled frequently and can't move easily. There are also smaller tabletop propane heaters designed to sit on top of tables and use 1-pound propane tanks. The price of a natural-gas patio heater is determined by its dimensions and features, like wheels for mobility as well as a quick ignition and remote that can be set to multiple settings. You can also choose from a variety of finishes, including resin wicker, hammered bronze and decorative stone facing to match your outdoor decor. Natural-gas-burning and electric patio heaters that are hardwired require a professional installation and can't be moved as easily as propane or gas models, however they do have a more lasting look and work just like an indoor space heater. You can find a stylish model that is able to thread through rigid gas lines to give it a stylish design. The price of an outdoor heater that runs on natural gas is usually higher than those powered by propane or electricity. Heat Output When looking for a natural gas patio heater, pay special attention to its heat output. The number of BTUs it produces reflects how warm it will make your guests feel, 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 round regardless of whether your location is covered or not. Most models are adjustable and are powered by natural gas or propane. They can be mounted on the ceiling or walls, or they can stand on their own. If you're limited on area for flooring, you may want to look into a portable natural gas patio heater on wheels powered by propane tanks. Look for features such as gas shutoffs to avoid leaks in the event of a fire being sparked, or an anti-tilt feature that stops the supply of fuel automatically when the unit tilts over 47 degrees. The most efficient natural gas patio heaters offer plenty of warmth and don't take up too much space on the deck or in your backyard. The large models that are freestanding that look like floor lamps, offer radiant warmth to a larger area and are constructed of durable metal. Tabletop models with a small footprint are great for intimate dining spaces. Models that use propane or natural gas are available in a range of attractive finishes. For a more sophisticated look, you can find patio heaters that utilize natural gas or propane with an hammered-bronze or resin-wicker front, or decorative stone front. Other features to look for include the ignition system that is a push button and an auto shut-off safety valve when the unit tips over and rotary dial control that lets you easily set and adjust the flame. The best propane patio heaters are constructed from stainless steel for durability and strength, while others are constructed from aluminum to help with weight. Safety Gas patio heaters are the perfect way to extend your time outdoors. The gas patio heaters are available in a variety of styles, from those that stand alone and utilize propane tanks to those that are connected to your home's gas line. The kind you pick depends on your budget as well as how much you're looking to heat your space. Propane-powered units are usually a stand or pole with an reflector dome or shield and a base that houses the 20-pound propane (LP) tank. These heaters offer a broad range of power outputs, from 41,000 BTU's to more than 100,000. These heaters come with security features like an automatic shut-off valve, and an electronic lighter to allow easy ignition. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off the gas flow when the unit is tip-over. Portable gas patio heaters should be used outdoors on flat, hard non-combustible surfaces. They should be kept at least three feet away from any combustible object and at least 12 inches away from any object that could ignite like fences and trees. The fuel cylinder must always be stored outside and at least three feet from any building, stairways, windows 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 the UL or CSA mark on propane patio heaters to be sure it meets national safety standards. A natural gas patio heater is connected to the gas line in your home. It has a higher BTU rating than propane units. It is more expensive to operate but it's safer and doesn't require replacing a propane tank. These units are perfect for patios in homes restaurant, apartments and condominium buildings. No matter which style of patio heater you select be sure that it's suitable for use in open or indoor spaces. If propane or natural gas patio heaters are used in a closed space, they can release dangerous carbon monoxide. Electric patio heaters, on other hand, don't release any pollutants and can be safely 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 kinds of outdoor heaters do. This makes them a more practical 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 commercial and residential properties and can make your patio a comfortable place to be even when temperatures dip below freezing. They are safe to use since they don't emit heat on the surface, but instead radiate heat from the inside of the silvered cover. They are extremely energy efficient since they do not require much energy. Patio heaters come in two forms of installation: freestanding and wall-mounted. When wall-mounted, they should be placed at minimum 8 feet above ground to ensure that no one is in the path of radiant heat. Freestanding heaters, on other hand, require a clearance of at minimum 14 feet to avoid contact with combustible objects in the area. They come with safety features that protect people and the property in the event of a malfunction. For example, most include a tilt shut-off device that will stop the heater from using energy (whether it is fuel or electricity) if it happens to tilt or fall over. They also have a flame sensor that detects the presence of flame to prevent accidental ignition. To ensure that gas heaters are safe to use, it is best to hire an experienced plumber licensed to do the installation. They must be acquainted with state and local plumbing codes and heating codes to ensure that gas lines are sized correctly to accommodate the heaters. They should also be certified to inspect gas appliances for leaks. Other expenses could be incurred in addition to the labor and materials costs for the gas patio heater install. These could include the removal, replacing, or repairing any damaged structures or finishes. These expenses include framing and finishing of surfaces, as well as plumbing systems. Other expenses that could be incurred include bringing existing systems into compliance with current building codes. These costs should be included in the total estimate.