Gas Fired Patio Heaters
Gas fired patio heaters are becoming more popular for residential and commercial outdoor spaces. They are typically freestanding and have a reflector shield or dome that directs radiant warmth downward.
They are usually connected to gas lines and eliminate the need for propane tanks, reducing operating costs. They aren't as portable and more prone to high winds than propane models.
Efficiency
Patio heaters are known as extending outdoor dining areas through the winter months but they can also pose dangers to fire if they are not employed in a safe manner. 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 not set up, operated or maintained correctly. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to reduce these hazards.
The first thing to do is check the heater's ventilation for proper functioning. Patio heaters that run on propane or natural gas emit deadly carbon monoxide. You should not use these heaters indoors or in enclosed spaces. Don't store tanks of propane inside. Propane tanks can only be used the time they are needed before they begin to begin to rust. If you don't use your heater, ensure that it is vented correctly or you have a propane cover.
Heat efficiency can also be influenced by the kind of fuel used and the conditions in which it is used. These conditions are crucial, because windy weather can spread heat and lower temperatures require more energy to keep warm.
The design of the patio heater is crucial. The design of the patio heater can influence its heating capacity as well as power. Freestanding models are less efficient than mounted models. Some models are built with reflectors that help to focus the heat and improve efficiency.
In the end, it's essential to check the power output of your patio heaters prior to you start using them. This will ensure that they are able to provide enough heating for your space and ensure that you don't use up gas or electricity. For example, you may require a greater output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) for your patio if it is large or you're looking to warm an outdoor event.
Gas patio heaters are a common choice for bars, restaurants, and hotels. These units can be fueled by natural gas or propane liquid and can be plugged into the standard electrical outlets. They are usually more efficient than electric patio heaters for larger spaces, as they can easily be operated via remote control or by an alarm clock. They also look more appealing than other types of commercial heaters and are ideal for areas that require a contemporary and stylish appearance.
Safety
Whether used at home or in the outdoor dining areas of restaurants, gas fired patio heaters are comfortable and can enhance the enjoyment of cooler climates. To prevent injury or fire hazards, they must be used and maintained in a safe manner. Make sure that the heater is UL-listed or Canadian Standards Association-listed and comes with a safety system for flames which shuts off the gas in the event of a burner tipping over.
It's important to also read the directions and warnings of the manufacturer, particularly those pertaining to fuel use. A fire extinguisher must be available in the event of an accident. You should also have a bucket of a bucket of water as well as a class C or B extinguisher based on what fuel type your heater is using.
Gas patio heaters are typically freestanding and must be kept at least one foot away from combustible materials such as tent walls, gazebos, or tablecloths. Also, make sure they're not located in the path of an exit or in close proximity to any mechanical air intakes of buildings.
They can also be top heavy, which makes them susceptible to tipping or falling. It's best that you secure them with sandbags, or water weights.
To avoid burning, keep children and pets at least three feet away from heaters. Also, you should not leave them unattended or turn them off when you're not in the area. Only use natural gas heaters that have been endorsed by your local plumber and are in good working order.
Based 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 away or cause the fire to go out. Natural gas or propane models that have an attached hose need to be connected to an unreliable line and placed outdoors to reduce the risk for fire or explosion.
Comfort
Patio heaters are available in a variety of designs and are powered by a variety of fuel sources. The right one for your home will be determined by the size of the outdoor space you want to heat and the power source you have available and your preferences regarding appearance and control.
Gas-powered patio heaters have the potential to warm up an area with more heat than other kinds of heaters for patios. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, says that's one of the reasons his restaurants mostly use pyramid and dome-top patio heaters in their New York and New Jersey locations. "The high heat output allows us to keep our customers comfortable while they take advantage of the outdoors in the winter months," Bonfiglio says.
The energy efficiency of a heater that is powered by gas is another aspect to take into consideration. A heater that has more BTU rating will usually heat an area faster and more effectively than one that has less of a BTU rating. Multiplying the area of the outdoor space by 20 will give you the amount of BTUs required to warm it.
The most well-liked choice for homeowners is propane-powered heaters. They are portable and utilize standard 20-pound tanks of propane (like those used for your grill), which are available at a majority of hardware stores. However, propane-powered heaters tend to use more power than other models, making them less green than other fuel options.
Electric heaters require plugs to operate. They're also a safer option than propane-powered ones since they don't emit any harmful fumes and do not ignite like gas patio heaters do. However electric patio heaters aren't as powerful as some of the other options and are limited in terms of how they can generate heat.
The natural gas-powered heaters are the best option for those looking to connect their heaters for patio use an existing gas line. They require professional installation and could be a bit more costly to run than other kinds of patio heaters. Natural gas heaters are the fastest and most reliable of the three options. This may be a reason to justify the additional cost.
Versatility
There are a variety of options for outdoor heating using propane. If you decide to go with a freestanding patio heater, a firepit or a restaurant-style overhead unit the most important thing is to ensure you're adhering to the most basic safety rules. These can be difficult to master, especially when you're dealing with a fiery flame or hot ashes that can stay hot for up to two days. With the right knowledge, however, you can be sure you're making use of your propane patio heating system in a safe manner and to the best of its capabilities.
Gas-fired patio heaters are a strong and efficient method to heat larger spaces, able to cover an area of up to 20 square meters. Gas patio heaters can be controlled via remote control or timers, or by natural gas. They require a minimum 25 percent of space open for airflow to stop carbon monoxide from building up which could cause fatalities if not ventilated properly.
In patio gas heater for sale to requiring a suitable space to ventilate, gas patio heaters are typically extremely simple to use and maintain. They can be installed permanently in areas that are exposed elements, or they can be recessed into flat roofs. They are typically fitted with an anti-tilt switch that will shut the unit off if it detects that the unit is not standing straight.
Patio heaters that burn wood, on the other hand, are more difficult to use and can be dangerous when not properly used. The main issue with these types of heaters is that they need to be continually filled with fuel, and the smoke and ash generated must be regularly discarded in a safe place. They are also harder to ignite and may cause sparks which could cause injury or fire.
Whatever type of patio heater you opt for, safety should be top of mind when it comes to use and maintenance. Keep a fire extinguisher in the vicinity and remind your children to stay clear from heaters. Be aware of the temperature, and don't overlook any smells that may suggest a leak. Both natural gas and propane have mercaptan added to them to emit a sour smell should they leak.