Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heat is a great option for keeping outdoor areas warm. Its primary benefit is that it can be connected to existing natural gas lines (NG) and you don't have to be concerned about refilling your propane tanks.
There are a few factors to take into account before selecting one. This article will go over the various options, including the heat output and security, as well as installation.
Cost
Adding a natural gas patio heater can make it easier to relax in your outdoor space well into the night. These heaters are available in various sizes and can be wall-mounted freestanding, or attached to the post. The best model will include features that will help make your patio more secure and easy. For instance, you can locate a model with an anti-slant design that will shut off the burner if it is tilted by more than 47 degrees. Certain models are also constructed from tough materials like aluminum and stainless steel to provide strength and corrosion resistance.
These units are powered by natural gas, propane or electricity and produce a maximum of about 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models plug into 120-volt outlets, which are the most simple to set up and operate, but they don't have the same heating power as propane or natural gas models.
Propane patio heaters are large and umbrella-like. They typically have a hollow base that holds tanks of propane that weigh 20 pounds similar to the ones you'd use to fuel a gas grill. The tanks are less expensive than the fuel used for an indoor space heater, but you have to refill them often and they can't be moved as easily. There are also smaller tabletop propane heaters designed to sit on top of tabletops and use propane tanks of 1 pound.
The cost of a natural gas patio heater is determined by its dimensions and features, including wheels for mobility, quick ignition and a remote that has different settings. You can also pick from a selection of finishes, including the hammered bronze finish, resin wicker and decorative stone faces, to complement your outdoor decor.
Natural-gas-burning and electric patio heaters that are hardwired require professional installation and can't be moved as easily as propane and gas versions, but they have a more permanent appearance and function just like an indoor space heater. You can also get an attractive model that is able to be plugged into rigid gas lines to add a stylish accent. The price of a patio heater that is powered on natural gas is typically more expensive than heaters powered by electricity or propane.
Heat Output
When looking for a natural gas patio heater, pay particular attention to the heat output. The number of BTUs indicates the warmth your guests will feel and also how long it will keep your porch and balcony warm. The higher the number of BTUs the greater the size of your area will be heated.
Whether your outdoor area is open or covered and sunny, gas patio heaters can help you comfortably enjoy your outdoor space all year long. Most models are adjustable and run on propane or natural gas. They can be mounted on the ceiling or wall or stand alone. If you have limited space for floor space, you might want to think about a portable natural-gas patio heater that is powered by readily available propane tanks. 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 best natural gas patio heater s deliver plenty of warmth without taking up too much space on the deck or in your backyard. Large freestanding models that resemble floor lamps provide radiant heat over wider areas and feature durable metal construction. Tabletop models that have a small footprint work well in dining rooms with small spaces. Models that use propane or natural gas are available in a variety of appealing finishes.
If you want a more elegant look, you can find patio heaters that utilize natural gas or propane, and have a hammered-bronze, resin-wicker or decorative stone front. Look for features like a push-button starter, a safety valve that automatically shuts off when the unit is tipped over, as well as the ability to rotary dials to adjust and set the flame. The best propane patio heaters are made of stainless steel to ensure durability and strength, whereas others are constructed of aluminum for lighter weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are the perfect method to extend your time outside. They come in a variety of styles, from freestanding models that contain a propane tank to those that are attached to your home's natural gas line. The type you choose depends on your budget and the amount you'd like to heat your space.
Propane-fueled heaters are typically a pole or stand with a reflector dome or shield and a base that houses a 20-pound propane (LP) tank. They come with a wide range of power output between 41,000 BTU's and more than 100,000. They come with safety features like an auto shut-off valve and an electronic lighter that allows for simple igniting. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off the gas flow when the unit is tip-over.
Portable LP gas patio heaters should only be used outside on flat, hard noncombustible, nonflammable surfaces. They should be located at minimum three feet away from all combustible materials and at least 12 inches away from anything that could ignite, including fences and trees. The fuel cylinder must be stored outdoors, at least three feet from any structure or structure, including stairs, windows, and doors. If you use a propane patio heater, be sure to check the connection points and hose frequently for leaks. You can test the connections using a solution of soapy water. Check for the UL or CSA mark on a propane patio heater to make sure it meets national safety standards.
A natural gas gas patio heater is connected to your home's natural gas line and provides greater BTU capacity than propane units. It can be more expensive to run but it's more secure and doesn't require the replacement of a propane tank. These units are perfect for patios in restaurants, residential patios, and common areas of apartment and condominium buildings.
No matter what style of patio heaters you select ensure that they are rated for indoor use or outdoor use. If propane or natural gas patio heaters are used in a closed area, they can release dangerous carbon monoxide. Electric patio heaters don't emit any harmful pollutants, and are safe to use in a closed space.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters are connected to your gas line in your home which means they don't need a propane tank like other types of outdoor heaters do. This makes them an easier and safer option than traditional propane heaters. They also emit less smoke than propane heaters. However, they will require professional installation and come at a higher costs than propane heaters do.
These heaters are widely used in both residential and commercial properties. They can make your patio more comfortable, even in the event that temperatures drop below freezing. These heaters are safe to use because they don't generate heat on the surface, but instead radiate heat from the inside of the silvered cover. These heaters are very energy efficient since they do not require lots of electricity.
Patio heaters come in two types: wall-mounted and freestanding. If they are wall-mounted, they must be positioned at minimum 8 feet above ground to ensure that people are not 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 area.
They come with safety features that safeguard people and their property in the event of an issue. For instance, the majority of them come with a tilt shut-off valve that causes the heater to stop using energy (whether it is electricity or fuel) in the event that it happens to tilt or fall over. They also have a flame sensor which detects the presence of 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. They must be acquainted with the local and state plumbing codes and heating codes to ensure that the gas lines are sized correctly for the heaters. They should also be certified to check gas appliances for leaks.
In addition to the costs of the labor and materials required to complete the gas patio heater installation, other expenses may be incurred to remove and replacing surfaces or structures that have been damaged during the installation. These costs include framing and finishing of surfaces, as well as plumbing systems. These costs could also comprise upgrading existing systems to comply with current building codes. These costs should be included in the total estimate for the job.