Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is a great way to keep outdoor spaces warm. Its primary benefit is that it can be connected to existing natural gas lines (NG) which means you won't need to be concerned about refilling your propane tanks.
However, there are a few factors to take into consideration before deciding on a. This article will explore the various options available including the heat output, safety and installation.
Cost
A natural gas patio heater will make it easier to relax in your outdoor space well into the night. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be wall-mounted, freestanding or mounted to a post. The best model should contain features that make using the patio safer and more convenient. There are models that have an anti-slant function that will shut off the stove whenever it tilts more than 47 degrees. Some models are made from durable materials like stainless steel and aluminum for strength and corrosion resistance.
These units 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 don't heat as well as propane or natural gas ones.
Propane patio heaters are large and umbrella-like. They typically have hollow bases that hold 20-pound liquid propane tanks similar to those you would use for gas grills. The tanks are cheaper, but they must be filled frequently and cannot move easily. You can also find smaller propane heaters on tables designed to sit on tables and hold camp-style 1-pound propane tanks.
The price of a natural-gas patio heater is determined by its dimensions and features, like wheels that allow for easy mobility as well as a quick ignition and remote that can be set to different settings. You can pick from a variety of finishes to match your outdoor decor, such as resin wicker, hammered brass, and decorative stone facing.
Hardwired electric and natural-gas patio heaters require professional installation. They aren't movable easily like propane and gas versions. However, they look more permanent and work just as well as a space heater. You can even get an attractive model that is able to be plugged into rigid gas lines to add a fashionable touch. The price of an outdoor heater that runs on natural gas is usually more expensive than those powered by electricity or propane.
Heat Output
When shopping for a natural gas patio heater, pay special focus on the power output. The number of BTUs it generates is a measure of how warm it will make your guests and also how long it will keep your porch or balcony warm. The bigger the area you can heat, the more the BTUs.
Gas patio heaters can be used to enjoy the outdoors all year long, whether your area is covered or not. The majority of models have adjustable temperature settings and operate on either propane or natural gas. They can be a freestanding unit or mounted on the ceiling or wall. When floor space is limited, opt for a portable natural gas patio heater with wheels that utilizes propane tanks that are readily available to provide power to the burner. When installing an outdoor heater consider options such as a gas shut-off to prevent leaks in the event that the flame is not lit or an anti-tilt feature that shuts off the fuel supply when the unit tilts more than 47 degrees.
The best natural gas patio heaters provide ample warmth without taking up too much room on the deck or in your backyard. patio heater gas flame freestanding models that resemble floor lamps provide radiant heat over larger areas and feature durable metal construction. Tabletop models that have a smaller footprint are great for smaller dining areas. You can find models that operate on natural gas or propane, and are available in a variety of attractive finishes.
For a more sophisticated look, there are patio heaters that use natural gas or propane, and have a hammered-bronze, resin-wicker or decorative stone front. Other features to look for include the ignition system that is a push button that shuts off the safety valve in the event that the unit goes over, and a rotary dial control that lets you easily set and adjust the flame. The best propane patio heaters are made from stainless steel to guarantee durability and strength, whereas others are made of aluminum to be lighter in weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters can be an excellent way to extend your time outdoors. Patio heaters made of gas come in many styles, from those that stand by themselves and utilize a propane tank to others which are connected to your home's gas line. The type of heater you select will depend on the budget you have set and the amount you wish to heat.
Propane-fueled heaters typically consist of a stand, pole or shield that has the addition of a reflector or shield. The base is able to hold a 20-pound propane tank (LP). They are available in a variety of power outputs ranging from 41,000 BTUs to more than 100,000. They are equipped with safety features, such as an auto shut-off valve and an electronic lighter for easy ignition. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off gas flow when the unit is tipped over.
Portable LP gas patio heaters should only be used outdoors on hard, flat noncombustible, nonflammable surfaces. They should be located at minimum three feet away from all materials that are combustible and kept at least 12 inches from anything that could catch fire including fences and even trees. The fuel cylinder must always be stored outside and at a minimum three feet from any building, stairways, windows and doors. If you have a propane patio heater, be sure to check the connection points and hose regularly for leaks. You can test these connections with a soapy water solution. Check for the UL or CSA marks on the patio heater made of propane to ensure that it meets the safety standards of the national standard.
A natural gas gas patio heater is connected to the natural gas line in your home and provides greater BTU capacity than propane units. It is more expensive to run, but it is safer and doesn't require an additional propane tank. These units are great for residential patios, restaurant patios, and common areas in apartment and condominium buildings.
No matter what style of patio heaters you select ensure that they're rated for outdoor or indoor use. If propane or natural gas patio heaters are used in a confined space, they could release deadly carbon monoxide. Electric patio heaters do not emit any pollutants, and can be used in a closed area.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters connect to the gas line of your home. They don't need tanks of propane like other types of outdoor heating. This makes them a safer and more convenient alternative to propane heaters that are traditional. Additionally, they don't emit as much smoke as propane heaters emit. However, they require professional installation and are more expensive prices than propane heaters.
They are a popular accessory for both residential and commercial properties and can make your patio more comfortable even if temperatures dip below freezing. These heaters are safe to use because they don't release heat onto the surface, but instead radiate heat from the inside of the silvered cover. These heaters are very energy efficient since they don't consume lots of energy.
Patio heaters come in two types of installation: freestanding and wall-mounted. If wall-mounted, they must be placed at minimum 8 feet above ground to ensure that no one is in the path of radiant heat. Freestanding heaters require a minimum clearance of 14 feet in order to prevent the spread of combustible substances in the vicinity.
They come with security features that protect the user and property in the event of an issue. The majority of heaters come with an automatic shut-off valve for tilt, which will stop the heater from using electricity or fuel when it slides or tilts. They also have a flame sensor which detects the presence of flame to avoid 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 the local and state plumbing codes and heating codes to ensure that gas lines are sized appropriately for the heaters. They should also be trained to check gas appliances for leaks.
Other expenses could be additional to the labor and materials costs for the gas patio heater install. These include removing, replacing, or repairing any damaged surfaces or structures. These costs include framing and surfaces as well as plumbing systems. Other possible expenses could include making existing systems more compliant with the latest building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate for the job.