Which Outdoor Gas Patio Heater Should You Choose?
A gas-powered patio heater can enhance the usability of your venue, whether you select stylish and space-saving models or freestanding pyramid heaters. But which one should you pick?
Take into consideration the cost of fuel, availability, the size and quantity of heat required. Find out more about these factors here.
Size
A gas-powered outdoor patio heater will enhance the utility of your garden furniture and can help you extend the hours you can relax in your outdoor space. They are available in various styles, sizes and outputs, based on the kind of fuel that is used (natural gas or propane). There are also models for ceiling- and wall-mounted mounted models.
The majority of outdoor patio heaters require an additional propane or LPG gas cylinder to operate. This is typically stored within the base of the heater or, in freestanding models, in a separate cannister that sits underneath the unit. Some models can be connected to gas supply pipes directly into your home. This requires a fixed installation by an experienced professional.
In certain situations, the patio heater will be connected to the gas regulator on the gas cylinder. This is to dispense the gas through the heater in a safe and controlled way. The manual of the patio heater must provide the dimensions and type of cylinder required. It should also specify whether the patio heater is compatible with propane or with propane LPG. The two fuels are dispensable at different pressures and can't be interchanged without changing the gas valve on the cylinder.
Patio heaters can be placed on the ground, on a stand, or on a tabletop. They can be found in a variety of styles to fit with your outdoor decor. The flame produced by these kinds of heaters can also be an attractive feature that can add a more primitive and natural aesthetic to your outside space.
A gas patio heater that is permanently attached to a wall or ceiling typically comes with an control system that has an on/off switch, dimmer switch and remote control. The controls will vary based on the model, but they should be simple to use and provide a lot of flexibility for your outdoor heating needs. No matter which model you choose, make sure there is enough space between the heater and any flammable materials. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer for guidance.
Design
As temperatures drop many homeowners are forced to stay inside. A gas patio heater can prevent this and allow people to use their patio space right through winter and fall months.
There are numerous models to choose from each with its own pros and pros and. Depending on the type of gas used and the size of the space to be heated, different heaters are required.
The classic, mushroom-shaped propane heater or natural gas heater has evolved into one of the most well-known kinds of outdoor heaters for patios. The heaters are placed on a pole with a burner which heats air before radiating it through a perforated screening. A reflector on top of the burner is used to reflect the heat upward, which reduces heating costs by reducing wasted energy.
These heaters for patios are well-known to most people because they are used in restaurants to keep their outdoor dining areas warm and comfortable as the temperatures drop. However, these heaters are available for use at home, and they are an economical way to extend the usefulness of a deck or patio.
patio heater gas are freestanding while some are mountable on a wall or ceiling. The benefit of freestanding heaters is that they can be moved to a new spot as people move around the patio. This flexibility is especially useful in commercial areas where people are moving throughout the day, and the heating can be adjusted to accommodate the movements of guests and employees.
Another alternative is to use an overhead commercial outdoor infrared heater that can be recessed into a ceiling that is flat. These models are ideal for patios with minimalist designs. They require low clearances. These models can be powered by natural gas or propane and are available in stainless-steel to minimize corrosion.
If your patio is connected to natural gas then a permanent natural gas or propane heater is a better choice than a portable unit. These kinds of heaters are simple to install, can be adjusted for height and require no additional maintenance beyond routine cleaning. They are also safer than electric models, because there is no danger of poisoning with carbon monoxide.
Fuel
The kind of fuel used in an outdoor gas patio heater determines how the heater will work. It also affects the cost and ease of use. Patio heaters are commonly powered by propane, natural gas or electricity. Natural gas patio heaters are best for those who have access to a permanent gas line, and propane models come with the added benefit of being portable and easy to install because they utilize large propane tanks.
Gas patio heaters can provide heat to up to 215ft2 and are renowned for their large heat output. They typically have poles with burners which burn either natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) propane, butane or propane. The flames then heat a perforated screen made of metal, which then emits warmth. A reflector atop the burner reduces heat loss by reflecting infrared light back toward the heater and surrounding areas.
Modern patio heaters are usually designed with aesthetics in mind and blend seamlessly into high-end outdoor living spaces and complementing architectural styles. Some even utilize infrared heating, which prevents the waste of energy by warming objects and people directly instead of the air around them. This makes them more efficient and effective, since it's less affected by windy conditions that can disrupt traditional heating methods.
The Bromic Tungsten Smart Heat overheard gas patio heater, for example it uses a sophisticated infrared system that provides an instant and consistent warmth. This allows guests to relax in a warm space without having to step away from their tables or chairs. Furthermore this heater has been designed to perform in windy conditions by adding wind resistance features.
A gas patio heater is a great way to improve the enjoyment of outdoor dining and drinking by providing a focal point of warmth that can provide a welcome respite from the cold night air. It can also be a place for people to gather. When customers are enjoying a drink at the bar or enjoying a meal on the patio, a gas heater will help them stay comfortably and enjoy their time and is a great investment for any business. With a variety of shapes, sizes and functionalities to choose from, there's bound to be an ideal outdoor gas heater for any setting.
Safety
It is crucial to select an outdoor heater that is secure and well-constructed. Look for models that have been tested for UL and CSA safety certifications and include features like tip-over switches and automatic shutoffs. Thermocouples are required for propane heaters. They check the flame and shut off the propane flow when it is no longer detectable. If you are using natural gas, you should have a professional run an gas line to the heater from the main house or another source of natural gas in the property.
Gas patio heaters, like those powered by natural gas or propane produce carbon monoxide. They should therefore only be used outside or in an enclosed area to avoid deadly gas fumes building up in your home. A chimney or vent is essential to ensure adequate ventilation. Utilizing a propane tank indoors or in a partially enclosed space can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Therefore, it's essential to know the expiration date of your propane and regularly replace it.
In addition, to ensure that your gas patio heater is properly ventilated, it is essential to follow the clearance requirements that are set by the manufacturer. These specifications are typically found in the product brief or manual and must be followed closely so that you don't risk fire. If you're uncertain about the clearance requirements for your space, visit the manufacturer's website or contact them directly.
The maintenance of a gas patio heater clean is another crucial step for security. Remove any flammable materials that have built up around your heater and clean the area regularly. A cover for your patio heater provides an additional layer of protection from debris, insects, and water that can damage the heater.
It is also important to ensure that your patio heater is set on a stable surface like wood or concrete. If it's a freestanding model it must be secured to the ground using tie-downs in windy conditions to minimize the chance of crashing over or damaging the structure. Additionally, it's an ideal idea to keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach in case incidental. A class B or class C extinguisher is recommended for outdoor heaters.