Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is a great option for keeping outdoor spaces warm. Its main benefit is that it connects to existing natural gas (NG) lines, which means you do not have to worry about refilling propane tanks.
There are a few factors to consider before choosing one. This article will go over the various options available, including the heat output, safety and installation.
Cost
You can relax in your outdoor space throughout the evening by adding an outdoor heater that is natural gas. These units can be wall-mounted, freestanding or mounted with a post to the ground. They come in a variety of sizes to heat larger spaces. The best model should include features that make patio use safer and easier. You can find units with an anti-slant feature which will turn off the burner when it tilts over 47 degrees. Some models are made from tough materials like aluminum and stainless steel to provide 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 into 120-volt outlets that are the easiest to set up and use but they don't provide heat as much as propane or natural gas ones.
Propane patio heaters are tall and umbrella-like. They typically have a hollow base that holds 20-pound liquid propane tanks, similar to the type you'd use for a gas grill. The tanks are cheaper however they have to be refilled frequently and can't move easily. There are smaller propane heaters for tables designed to sit on top of tables and use propane tanks of 1 pound.
The cost of a natural-gas patio heater is determined by its dimensions and features, including wheels that allow for easy mobility as well as a quick ignition and remote that has different settings. You can pick from a variety of finishes to match your outdoor decor, including resin wicker, hammered brass, and decorative stone facing.
Natural-gas-burning and electric patio heaters that are hardwired require a professional installation and can't be moved like propane and gas models, but they offer a more durable look and work just like an indoor space heater. You can find a stylish model that threads through gas lines that are rigid to add an extra stylish appearance. The price of a patio heater that runs on natural gas is generally more expensive than those powered by electricity or propane.
Heat Output
When shopping for a natural gas patio heater, pay close attention to the heat output. The amount of BTUs indicates the warmth your guests will feel as well as how long it will keep your porch and balcony warm. The bigger the area you can heat, the higher the BTUs.
No matter if your outdoor space is covered or open, gas patio heaters can allow you to enjoy the outdoors all year round. The majority of models are adjustable and operate on propane or natural gas. They can be mounted on the ceiling or walls, or they can stand on their own. If space on the floor is limited, consider a portable natural gas patio heater with wheels that uses readily available propane tanks to power the burner. When installing an outdoor heater you should look for features such as gas shut-offs to prevent leaks in the event that the flame goes out or an anti-tilt design that will stop the supply of fuel when the unit tilts more than 47 degrees.
The most efficient natural gas patio heaters provide plenty of warmth without taking up too much room on the deck or in your backyard. The huge freestanding models, which look like floor lamps, offer radiant warmth to a larger area and are made of durable metal. Tabletop models with a small footprint are great for intimate dining spaces. Models that use natural or propane gas are available in a variety of appealing finishes.
You can also find propane and natural gas patio heaters with a Hammered bronze, resin wicker or decorative stone faces for an elegant look. Look for features such as an electric starter button and a safety valve which automatically shuts off the unit when it is tipped over, and rotary dial controls to easily adjust the flame and set it. The best propane patio heaters are crafted from stainless steel for strength and durability and others are constructed of aluminum to make them lighter in weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are a popular way to increase the amount of time you spend outdoors. Gas patio heaters come in a variety of styles, from those that stand alone and utilize a propane tank to others which are connected to the gas line of your home. The type of heater you choose will depend on the budget you have set and the amount you wish to heat.
Propane-fueled heaters are typically a pole or stand with an reflector dome or shield, and a base that houses a 20-pound propane (LP) tank. These heaters have a wide range of power outputs between 41,000 BTU's and more than 100,000. These heaters come with safety features such as an automatic shut-off valve and an electronic lighter that allow easy ignition. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off gas flow when the unit is tipped over.
Portable gas patio heaters should be used outside on flat, hard noncombustible, nonflammable surfaces. They should be at minimum three feet away from all combustible materials and kept at least 12 inches away from anything that could ignite including fences and even trees. The fuel cylinder should be kept outside and at least three feet away from building, stairways, windows and doors. Check the hose and connection points of propane patio heaters for leaks regularly. gas flame patio heater can test the connections by using a solution of soapy water. Check for the UL or CSA mark on propane patio heaters to be sure it meets the safety standards of the national standard.
A natural gas patio heater is connected to the gas line of your home. It has more BTU when in comparison to propane units. It's more expensive to run, however it's safer and doesn’t require the replacement of a propane tank. These units are ideal for residential patios, restaurant patios and common areas of apartment and condominium buildings.
No matter what type of patio heater you pick be sure that it is suitable for outdoor or indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heaters could release carbon monoxide when they are installed indoors in a closed space, and this could cause fatal harm. Electric patio heaters do not emit any harmful pollutants, and can be used in a closed space.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters are connected to the gas line in your home which means they don't need a propane tank as other kinds of outdoor heaters do. This makes them more secure and a better alternative to propane heaters that are traditional. In addition, they don't release as much smoke as propane heaters do. However, they will require professional installation and have more expensive prices than propane heaters.
These heaters are popular for both residential and commercial properties. They can make your patio more pleasant, even in the event that temperatures drop below freezing. These heaters are safe to use since they don't generate heat on the surface, but rather radiate heat from the inside of the silvered cover. These heaters are also efficient to run because they don't consume lots of energy.
Patio heaters are available in two types that are wall-mounted and freestanding. If they're wall-mounted, the heaters must be at minimum 8 feet from the ground to ensure that no one gets in the way of the radiant heat. Freestanding heaters require minimum clearance of 14 feet in order to avoid combustible materials in the area.
They come with security features that protect the user and their property in the event of a malfunction. Most heaters have an automatic shut-off valve for tilt that will stop the heater from using electricity or fuel in the event that it falls or tilts. They also include a flame sensor that detects the presence of flames to avoid accidental ignition.
In order to ensure that the gas heaters are safe to use and safe for use, a licensed plumber must be hired to install them. These professionals should be familiar with state and local plumbing and heating codes to ensure that the gas lines are properly sized for the heaters. They should also be certified to check gas appliances for leaks.
In addition to the cost of the materials and labor needed for the gas patio heater installation, other expenses may be incurred for removing and replacing structures or finishes that are damaged during the work. These expenses include framing, surface finishing, and plumbing systems. These costs may also include upgrading existing systems to comply with current building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate for the job.