Gas Fired Patio Heaters
Gas patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular in both residential and commercial outdoor spaces. They are typically freestanding and come with a reflector shield or dome that directs the radiant heat downwards.
They typically connect to natural gas lines which eliminates the necessity for propane tanks and reducing the cost of running. However, they are less portable than propane models, and can be affected by strong winds.
Efficiency
Patio heaters are renowned for their ability to extend outdoor dining to the winter months. However, they can be a fire risk if they are not used in a safe manner. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) warn that patio heaters pose a risk if not installed, maintained or operated properly. They can cause fires, carbon monoxide poisoning or even death. There are steps you can follow to stay clear of these dangers.
The first thing to do is to check the heater for proper ventilation. Propane and natural gas patio heaters emit deadly carbon monoxide. You should not use them indoors or in partially enclosed areas. Do not store a tank of propane in a closed space. Propane tanks are only usable for the time they are needed before they begin to become rusty. Instead, make sure you have a propane tank cover, or that your heater is vented when not in use.
The type of fuel and environmental conditions can affect the efficiency of heat. These conditions are important, as windy weather can disperse heat and lower ambient temperatures require additional energy to maintain warmth.
The design of the patio heater is also crucial. This will impact its ability to heat and the power it produces. Freestanding models are generally less efficient than mounted models. Certain models are equipped with reflectors, which help increase the heat output and increase efficiency.
cheap patio gas is also important to verify the power output of your patio heaters before you begin using them. This will ensure that they can offer enough heat to your area, and you don't end up wasting electricity or gas. For instance, you might need a higher output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) if your patio is large or you wish to warm an outdoor gathering.
Gas patio heaters are a common choice for bars, restaurants and hotels. These units can be powered by gas or liquid propane and connected to regular electrical outlets. They are usually more efficient than electric patio heaters for larger areas, since they are easily controlled via remote or by the use of a timer. They also look better than other kinds of commercial heaters and are perfect for spaces that require a modern elegant look.
Safety
Gas-fired patio heaters are used in restaurants and at home to provide comfort and warmth in colder weather. To avoid fire hazards or injuries they must be operated and maintained in a safe manner. Make sure your heater is listed as UL-listed or Canadian Standards Association-listed and includes a flame failure system that will shut off the gas in the event of a burner tipping.
It is important to be aware of the instructions and warnings of the manufacturer, especially those pertaining to fuel use. A fire extinguisher needs to be available in the event of an accident. It's recommended to have a class B or C extinguisher according to the type of fuel used by your heater, as well as a bucket of water.
Since gas patio heaters are typically free-standing It's recommended to keep them at least a few feet away from combustible objects like tent walls, gazebos tables, tablecloths, decorations and paper products. Also, ensure they're not placed near an exit or in close proximity to any mechanical air intakes on buildings.
In addition, since the heaters are typically placed at higher elevations to spread heat throughout an area, they can be heavy and prone to tipping or tumbling. Therefore, it's recommended to secure them in a way using sandbags or water weights to stabilize them.
For your safety, you should ensure that pets and children are kept at a minimum of three feet away from any heater while they're operating to avoid burning. Never leave them unattended, or turn them off if you aren't in the vicinity. Use only natural gas heaters that have been endorsed by your local plumber and are in good working order.
Based on the fuel source the gas patio heaters could also be affected by wind. If it's a propane model, strong winds could blow the cylinder off or cause the fire to go out. Natural gas or propane models with an attached hose have to be connected to an unreliable line and placed outdoors to reduce the risk of explosion or fire.
Comfort
Patio heaters are available in a variety of styles, and powered by a variety of fuel sources. The best patio heater for your home will depend on the size of your outdoor space, the power source you have available and your preferences for appearance and control.
Gas-powered patio heating units can provide more heat than other kinds of. Thomas Bonfiglio is the CEO and founder at Triple T Hospitality. He states that this is one of the many reasons why his restaurants in New York and New Jersey employ pyramid-top and dome-top patio heaters. "The high heat output allows us to keep our diners cozy while they relax outdoors in the winter," he says.
Another consideration is the energy efficiency of a gas-powered heater. A heater that has more BTU rating will usually heat an area more efficiently and faster than one that has a lower BTU rating. Multiplying the area of the outdoor area by 20 will give you the amount of BTUs required to warm it.
The most popular choice of homeowners is propane-powered heaters. They are portable and use standard 20-pound tanks of propane (like the ones used to power your grill), which are available at a majority of hardware stores. But propane-powered heaters are also known to consume more electricity than other models, making them less eco-friendly than other fuel options.
Electric-powered heaters, on the other hand, need a plug into a standard power outlet in order to operate. They're also safer than propane-powered ones since they don't emit harmful fumes or ignite like gas patio heaters do. However electric patio heaters aren't as hot as some of the other options and are limited in terms of how they can generate heat.
Natural gas-powered heaters are the best option for those looking to connect to their patio heaters an existing gas line. These heaters require professional installation and may be more expensive to operate than other heaters for patios. Natural gas heaters provide the most consistent and fast warmth of the three options, which could help justify the extra expense.
Versatility
When it comes to outdoor propane heating there are a lot of options. If you decide to go with a freestanding patio heater, a firepit, or a restaurant-style overhead unit, the key is to ensure you're adhering to the most basic safety rules. They aren't easy to master, especially when you're dealing with a hot flame or hot ashes that can remain hot for up to two days. With the right understanding, however, you can make sure you're using your propane patio heating system in a safe manner and maximizing its functionality.
Gas-fired patio heaters are an effective and efficient way to heat larger areas. They can cover up to 20m2. Gas patio heaters can be controlled by remote control, timer, or natural gas. They require a minimum of 25 percent of space open for airflow to stop carbon monoxide from accumulating which could cause fatalities when not properly ventilated.
Aside from requiring a proper space to ventilate gas patio heaters are generally extremely simple to use and maintain. They can be installed in areas that are exposed to the elements or set into ceilings that are flat, and they often come equipped with an anti-tilt switch which will shut off the unit if it detects that it's no longer upright.
On the other hand those with wood-burning patio heaters, they are much more difficult to operate and could be dangerous if not operated properly. The major problem with these kinds of heaters is that they need to be continually fed with fuel, and the ash and ash generated must be disposed of regularly in a secure location. They are also much more difficult to light and can cause sparks that can cause fire or injury.
Security should always be a priority when it comes to deciding to maintain and use your outdoor heater. Keep a fire extinguisher in the vicinity and remind your children to stay away from heaters. Don't ignore unusual smells or changes in temperature that could indicate the presence of gas. Both propane and natural gas contain mercaptan, which can cause an unpleasant smell if they leak.