Gas Fired Patio Heaters
Gas fired patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular for residential and commercial outdoor areas. They are typically freestanding and come with a reflector shield or dome that directs the radiant heat downwards.
They are usually connected to a gas line and eliminate the requirement for propane tanks, which reduces operating costs. They are less portable and more prone to strong winds than propane models.
Efficiency
Patio heaters are known for extending outdoor dining to the winter months. However, they can be a fire risk when not operated correctly. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs warn that patio heaters can cause fires or carbon monoxide poisoning and even death if they are not installed, operated or maintained properly. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to reduce these dangers.
Make sure the heater's vents are checked first. Propane and natural gas patio heater s release dangerous carbon monoxide, so you should not use them inside or in partially enclosed spaces. Never store a propane tank in a closed space, too. Propane tanks are only rated to be used for a specified period of time, and if they are kept for long periods, they can cause corrosion. Make sure that you have a cover for your propane tank or that your heater is properly vented when not in use.
The efficiency of heat is also influenced by the type of fuel used as well as the environment. These conditions are crucial as windy weather can disperse heat and lower temperatures require more energy to maintain warmth.
The design of the patio heater is also important. The design of the patio heater may influence its heating capacity as well as power. Freestanding models are less efficient than mounted models. Some models are designed with reflectors, which help concentrate the heat and improve efficiency.
In the end, it's essential to test the power output of your patio heaters prior to you start using them. This will ensure that they are capable of providing enough heat for your area and ensure that you don't use up energy or gas. For example, you may require a greater output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) for your patio if it is large or you want to warm an outdoor event.
For bars, restaurants, hotels and other hospitality establishments the variety of gas fired patio heaters is what makes them a preferred option. These heaters can be powered by liquid propane or natural gas and are plugged into standard electrical outlets. These heaters are usually more efficient than electric patio heaters in larger spaces due to the fact that they can be controlled remotely or by a timer. They also look more appealing than other types commercial heaters and are perfect for spaces that require a modern and stylish appearance.
Safety
When used at home or in outdoor dining areas in restaurants, gas fired patio heaters provide comfort that can help you enjoy cooler climates. However, they must be maintained and properly used to avoid injuries or fire hazards. Before you use, ensure that your heater is UL or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) registered and comes with an ignition failure device that shuts off gas flow in the event that the burner tips over for any reason.
It's also important to read the instructions and warnings of the manufacturer, particularly those pertaining to fuel use. It is recommended to keep an extinguisher for fire in case of any accident that might occur. Also, you should have a bucket or bucket of water and a class C or B fire extinguisher, based on what fuel type your heater is using.
Since gas patio heaters are typically free-standing It's a good idea to keep them at least just a few feet from combustible objects such as gazebos, tent walls, tablecloths, paper products and decorations. Also, ensure that they are not placed in the direction of an air intake or close to an exit.
They can also be top-heavy, making them prone to tipping over or tumbling. Therefore, it's recommended to secure them in some way using sandbags or water weights to help stabilize them.
To avoid burns, keep children and pets at least three feet away from heaters. Also, you should never leave them unattended or shut them off when you're not in the immediate area. Use only natural gas heaters that have been endorsed by your local plumber and are in good working order.
Depending on the fuel source, gas patio heaters can also be affected by winds. A strong wind could blow the propane cylinder away or cause a fire to go out when it's a model equipped with the propane cylinder. Propane or natural gas models with an attached hose have to be connected to a permanent line and installed outdoors to reduce the chance for fire or explosion.
Comfort
Patio heaters are available in a range of designs and are powered by various fuel sources. The best one for your home will depend on the dimensions of the space you'd like to heat, the power source available and your preferences regarding appearance and control.
Gas-powered patio heating units can provide more heat than other kinds of. Thomas Bonfiglio is the CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality. He states that this is among the many reasons why his restaurants in New York and New Jersey make use of pyramid-top and dome-top patio heaters. "The high heat output allows us to keep our customers cozy while they enjoy dining outdoors during the winter," says Bonfiglio.
Another consideration is the energy efficiency of gas-powered heaters. A heater with a higher BTU rating is likely to warm a space more efficiently and faster than one that has less of a BTU rating. Multiplying the area of the outdoor area by 20 will yield the amount of BTUs required to warm it.
In terms of the power source propane-powered heaters are the most commonly used option for homeowners. They are portable and utilize the standard 20-pound propane tanks (like the ones used to fuel your grill) that are available at most hardware stores. But propane-powered heaters are also known to use more power than other models, which makes them less green than other fuel options.
Electric heaters require a plug to operate. They are also more secure than propane-powered ones, since they don't release harmful fumes, or burn like gas patio heaters. However electric patio heaters aren't as hot as other alternatives and are limited in how much heat they can deliver.
The natural gas-powered heaters are the best choice for those who want to connect to their patio heaters or gas lines. These heaters require a professional installation and may be more expensive to operate than other heaters for patios. Natural gas heaters are among the most efficient and most reliable of the three choices. This could justify the extra cost.
Versatility
When it is time to heat your outdoor propane there are a variety of choices. If you decide to go with a freestanding patio heater, a firepit or an overhead unit that resembles a restaurant, the key is to ensure you're adhering to basic safety rules. These rules can be difficult to master, especially if you are confronted with a flaming fire or hot ashes that can remain hot up to two days. With the right understanding however, you can make sure you are using your propane patio heating system safely and maximizing its functionality.
Gas fired patio heaters are an effective and efficient method of heating larger areas. They can cover an area of up to 20 square meters. They can be powered by either natural gas or propane and, depending on the model, can be turned on and off via remote control or programmed by timers. They usually require a minimum of 25% of space open to allow for regular airflow and to prevent carbon monoxide build-up - which can be deadly when not properly ventilated.
Gas patio heaters, apart from the need to ventilate the space they are typically very easy to operate and maintain. They can be permanently installed in areas exposed to the elements, or recessed into ceilings with flat surfaces, and they often come equipped with an anti-tilt feature that shuts off the unit if it detects that it's no longer upright.
On the other hand the wood-burning patio heaters are much more difficult to operate and could be dangerous if not operated correctly. These heaters are difficult to operate because they require constant fueling and that the ash and smoke must be removed regularly from a secure area. They are also harder to ignite and may cause sparks that could cause fire or injury.
Whatever type of patio heater you choose for, safety must be top of mind when it comes to use and maintenance. Keep a fire extinguisher close by and remind your children to keep away from the heaters. Do not ignore any unusual smells or temperature changes that could indicate an odor of gas. Both propane and natural gasses contain mercaptan that can produce an unpleasant odor when they leak.