Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is a fantastic option to keep outdoor spaces warm. Its primary advantage is that it can be connected to existing natural gas lines (NG) which means you won't have to worry about refilling your propane tanks.
However, there are a few factors to take into consideration before you decide on one. This article will go over the different options available, including heat output, safety and installation.
Cost
A natural gas patio heater can help you enjoy your outdoor area well into the night. These units are available in various sizes and can be wall-mounted freestanding or affixed to posts. The best model will come with features that can help make your patio more secure and easy. For instance, you could find a unit that has an anti-slant design which will stop the burner when it is tilted by more than 47 degrees. Some models are made from robust materials like aluminum and stainless steel for strength and corrosion-resistance.
These units are powered by natural gas, propane or electricity, and produce a maximum of 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models plug into 120-volt outlets, which are the easiest to set up and operate however they don't heat as well as propane or natural gas models.
Propane patio heaters are tall and umbrellalike and usually have an open base that houses tanks of propane that weigh 20 pounds similar to those you would use for gas grills. The tanks are cheaper than the fuel used in an indoor space heater, however you have to refill them often and they're not able to be moved as easily. There are also smaller tabletop propane heaters designed to be placed on top of tabletops and use propane tanks of 1 pound.
The cost of a natural gas patio heater depends on its size and the features it has, such as an automatic shut-off, a wheel for easy mobility, a rapid ignition and a remote with different settings. You can also choose from a wide range of finishes, such as hammered bronze, resin wicker and decorative stone facing to match your outdoor decor.
Natural-gas and electric patio heaters require a professional installation. They can't be moved easily, unlike propane and gas models. However, they appear more permanent and work just as well as an indoor space heater. You can also get one with a stylish design that threads into gas lines with a rigid structure to add a stylish accent. The cost of a patio heater that is powered on natural gas is typically more expensive than those powered by electricity or propane.
Heat Output
When shopping for a natural gas patio heater, pay particular attention to the heat output. Best gas patio heaters UK of BTUs reflects the warmth that your guests will feel, as well as the length of time it will keep your porch and balcony warm. The bigger the area you can heat, the more the BTUs.
If your outdoor space is open or covered and sunny, a gas patio heater can help you comfortably enjoy your outdoor space all year long. Best gas patio heaters UK of models have adjustable temperature settings and run on either natural gas or propane. They can be installed free-standing or mounted on the ceiling or wall. If floor space is limited, choose a portable natural gas patio heater that has wheels that makes use of propane tanks that are readily available to fuel the burner. When installing an outdoor heater, look for options like a gas shut-off to prevent leaks if the flame is not lit or an anti-tilt design that will stop the fuel supply if the heater is tilted over 47 degrees.
The best natural gas patio heaters offer plenty of warmth and don't take up too much space on a deck or in your backyard. The large free-standing models that resemble floor lamps, provide radiant heat to a larger area and are constructed from sturdy metal. Tabletop models with small footprints are ideal in intimate dining areas. There are models that work with propane or natural gas and are available in a range of appealing finishes.
For a more sophisticated look, you can find patio heaters that use natural gas or propane, and have an hammered-bronze or resin-wicker front, or a decorative stone front. Other features to look for include the ignition system that is a push button, an auto shut-off safety valve if the unit goes over, and a rotary dial control which allows you to easily set and adjust the flame. Some of the best propane patio heaters are crafted from stainless steel for strength and durability while others are constructed from aluminum to help with weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are a popular way to prolong the time you spend in your outdoor space. Patio heaters made of gas come in a variety of styles, ranging from ones that stand on their own and use propane tanks to those that are connected to the gas line of your home. The type you choose depends on your budget and the amount you'd like to heat your space.
Propane-fueled heaters are usually a stand, pole or shield with an reflector or shield. The base is able to hold a 20-pound tank of propane (LP). They come with a wide range of power outputs that ranges from 41,000 BTU's up to more than 100,000. They come with safety features like an auto shut-off valve and an electronic lighter for easy starting. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off gas flow when the unit is tipped over.
Portable patio heaters LP are intended to be used outdoors on flat, noncombustible and non-slip surfaces. They should be kept at a minimum of three feet away from any combustible object and at a minimum of 12 inches from anything that could ignite, such as fences and trees. The fuel cylinder must be kept outdoors, at least three feet from any structure or structure, including stairways, windows, and doors. If you have a propane patio heater, check the hose and connections frequently for leaks. You can test these connections with soapy water. Look for the UL or CSA marks on the patio heater made from propane to ensure it meets national safety standards.
A natural gas gas patio heater is connected to your home's natural gas line and offers a higher BTU rating than propane units. It may be more expensive to operate however it's safer and doesn't require replacing a propane tank. These units are ideal for residential patios, restaurant patios, and common areas of condominium and apartment buildings.
Whatever type of patio heaters you pick be sure that they are approved for outdoor or indoor use. Propane and natural gas patio heaters can release carbon monoxide if they are installed indoors in a closed space, which can be fatal. Electric patio heaters don't emit any pollutants, and can be used safely in a sealed space.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters connect to your home's gas line. They don't require tanks of propane like other types of outdoor heating. This makes them an easier and safer alternative to propane heaters that are traditional. They also emit less smoke than propane heaters. However, they will require professional installation and have higher costs than propane heaters do.
These heaters are widely used in both residential and commercial buildings. They can make your patio more pleasant, even when temperatures fall below freezing. They are extremely safe to use as they don't emit heat at the surface of the heater, but instead radiate heat from the inside of the hood that is silvered. These heaters are very energy efficient since they don't consume a lot of energy.
Patio heaters are available in two forms that are wall-mounted and freestanding. When wall-mounted, they should be positioned at least 8 feet above the ground to ensure that no one is in the path of radiant heat. Freestanding heaters require minimum clearance of 14 feet in order to keep out combustible materials from the area.
These heaters have built-in security features that protect the user and their property in the event of malfunction. For instance, the majority of them include a tilt shut-off device that causes the heater to stop using energy (whether it's fuel or electricity) in the event that it accidentally tilts or falls over. They also have sensors that detect flame to prevent accidental ignition.
To ensure that gas heaters are safe to use, it is recommended to hire a plumber who is licensed to do the installation. These professionals should be familiar with the local and state plumbing codes and heating codes in order to ensure that gas lines are constructed correctly to accommodate the heaters. They should be certified to look for leaks of gas in appliances.
Other expenses may be incurred in addition to the labor and materials costs associated with the installation of a gas patio heater. These include removing, replacing, or repairing any damaged surfaces or structures. These costs include framing, surface finishing, and plumbing systems. Other potential expenses may include making existing systems more compliant with the current building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate of the project.