What Gas Fired Patio Heaters Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
Gas Fired Patio Heaters
Gas-fired patio heaters are becoming more popular for residential and commercial outdoor spaces. These units are usually free-standing and have a reflector dome or shield to direct the radiant heat downwards.
They typically connect to natural gas lines, eliminating the necessity of propane tanks and reducing the running costs. However they are not as mobile than propane models and are susceptible to damage by strong winds.
Efficiency
Patio heaters are popular for their ability to extend outdoor dining into the winter months. However, they can pose a fire hazard when they are not operated correctly. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) warn that patio heaters pose a risk in the event that they are not installed, maintained or operated correctly. They can cause fires, carbon-monoxide poisoning, or even death. There are steps you can follow to avoid these hazards.
The first thing you should do is to examine the heater's ventilation to ensure it is adequate. Patio heaters that use natural gas or propane emit deadly carbon monoxide. It is not recommended to use these heaters indoors or in enclosed spaces. Do not store a tank of propane in a closed space. Propane tanks are intended to be used for a specified amount of time and, if stored for a long time, they could lead to corrosion. If you do not use your heater, ensure it is properly vented or that you have a propane cover.
The efficiency of heat can also be influenced by the type of fuel used and the environmental conditions. These conditions are crucial because windy weather can spread heat and lower temperatures require additional energy to keep warm.
Another aspect to consider is the design of the patio heater. The design of the patio heater may affect its heating capacity and power. Freestanding models tend to be less efficient than mounted versions. Some models are designed with reflectors to help concentrate the heat and improve efficiency.
In the end, it's essential to verify the power output of your patio heaters before you start using them. This will ensure that they can provide sufficient heat for your space, and that you don't end up wasting electricity or gas. You might require more British Thermal Units if you have an extensive patio or wish to heat an outdoor event.
For bars, restaurants hotels, and other venues for hospitality, the versatility of gas-fired patio heaters is what makes them a preferred option. These units can be powered by liquid propane or gas and connected to regular electrical outlets. They are often more efficient than electric heaters for large spaces because they are easily operated via remote control or by an alarm clock. They also have a better appearance than other kinds of commercial heaters, which makes them ideal for design-focused spaces that require to look contemporary and elegant.
Safety
Gas-fired patio heaters can be used in restaurants or at homes to provide comfort and warmth during colder months. To avoid injury or fire hazards they must be used and maintained correctly. Before using, make sure your heater is UL or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) listed and has an ignition failure device which shuts off the gas flow in the event that the burner tips over for any reason.
It's important to also read the directions and warnings of the manufacturer, especially those that concern fuel use. It is recommended to keep an extinguisher for fire in case of any incidents that could occur. Also, you should have a bucket or bucket of water and a class C or B extinguisher depending on the type of fuel your heater is using.
Gas patio heaters are typically freestanding and should be kept at a minimum of a few foot away from any combustible material like tent walls, gazebos, or tablecloths. Also, ensure that they are not placed in the path of an air intake or in close proximity to an exit.
These heaters can also be top heavy, making them vulnerable to tilting or toppling. Therefore, it is recommended to secure them in some method using sandbags, or water weights to help stabilize them.
To avoid burning To avoid burns, keep pets and children at least three feet from heaters. Also, you should not leave them unattended, or turn them off while you're not in the immediate area. If you're using a natural gas heater ensure that you use only those approved by the local plumbing inspector and ensure that they're in good working condition.
Gas patio heaters can also be affected by wind depending on the fuel type. A strong wind could cause the propane cylinder to blow away or set off the fire in the case of a model that has an propane cylinder. Propane and natural gas models with a hose attached must be connected to a permanent gas line that is installed outside to reduce the risk of explosion or fire.
Comfort
Patio heaters come in a variety of styles and are powered by various fuel sources. The ideal patio heater for your home is based on the size of your outdoor space and the power source available and your preferences in appearance and control.
Gas-powered patio heaters are able to warm up an area faster and with more heat than other types of heaters for patios. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, says that's one of the reasons his restaurants use a lot of dome-top and pyramid-shaped patio heaters in their New York and New Jersey locations. "The high heat output allows us to keep our diners warm while they enjoy the outdoors during the winter," he says.
The energy efficiency of a heater powered by gas is another factor to consider. A heater with a higher BTU rating is likely to heat an area more efficiently and faster than one that has less of a BTU rating. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the area of your outdoor space by 20 to determine the number of BTUs needed to adequately warm it.
The most well-liked choice for homeowners is propane-powered heaters. They offer portability and use the standard 20-pound propane tanks (like the ones used to fuel your grill) which can be purchased at most hardware stores. However, propane-powered heaters tend to use more power than other models, which makes them less green than other fuel options.
Electric-powered heaters, on the other hand, require an outlet that is plugged into an outlet for power to operate. They are also safer than propane-powered ones, since they don't emit harmful fumes or ignite like gas patio heater s. Electric patio heaters are not as hot as other options, and they are also limited in the amount of heat that they can produce.
Natural gas-powered heaters, on the other hand, are a good option for those who wish to connect their heaters for patio use to an existing natural gas line. These heaters require professional installation and may be more costly to run than other patio heaters. Natural gas heaters provide the most consistent and rapid heating of all the three options, which can be a reason to justify the cost.
Versatility
When it is time to heat your outdoor propane there are a variety of choices. It doesn't matter if you opt for a freestanding patio heater, firepit or restaurant overhead unit. The most important thing is to adhere to the basic safety guidelines. These rules can be difficult to master, particularly when you are dealing with a burning flame or hot ashes which can remain hot for up to two days. With the right understanding you can be sure you're using your propane patio heater safely, and maximizing its capabilities.
Gas fired patio heaters are a powerful and efficient method to heat larger spaces, able to cover an area of up to 20m2. They can be operated on propane or natural gas and, based on the model, can be switched on and off via remote control or programmed by timers. They usually require at least 25% of the space open to allow for airflow and to prevent carbon monoxide build-up which could cause fatalities when not properly ventilated.
In addition to requiring a suitable space to ventilate, gas patio heaters are extremely simple to use and maintain. They can be permanently installed in areas that are exposed to the elements or set into ceilings with flat surfaces and are often equipped with an anti-tilt feature that shuts off the unit if it detects that it's no longer upright.
On the other hand, wood-burning patio heaters are much more difficult to operate and could be dangerous if used properly. The primary issue with these types of heaters is that they have to be continuously filled with fuel, and the ash and ash produced must be regularly discarded in a secure place. They are also difficult to light and can cause sparks that can cause fire or cause injury.
Security should always be a priority when it comes to deciding to maintain and use your outdoor heater. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and remind your children to stay clear from heaters. Don't ignore unusual smells or changes in temperature that could be a sign of a gas leak. Both natural and propane gases contain mercaptan to produce an unpleasant odor when they leak.