The Little-Known Benefits Of Gas Fired Patio Heaters

Gas Fired Patio Heaters Gas-fired patio heaters are increasingly popular for residential and commercial outdoor spaces. They are typically freestanding and come with a reflector shield or dome to direct radiant heat downward. These models are usually connected to gas lines and eliminate the need for propane tanks, thus reducing operating costs. However, they are less mobile than propane models and can be affected by strong winds. Efficiency Patio heaters are known for extending outdoor dining areas throughout the winter months, however they can also be dangers to fire if they are not employed in a safe manner. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) warn that patio heaters can be dangerous in the event that they are not installed, maintained or operated properly. They can cause fires, carbon monoxide poisoning or even death. The good news is that there are a few easy steps you can take to prevent these hazards. Check the heater's ventilation first. Propane and natural gas patio heaters emit deadly carbon monoxide, so you must never use them indoors or in partially enclosed spaces. Don't store a propane tank indoors, either. Propane tanks are designed to be used for a specified time period and, if kept for long periods, they can lead to rust. If you don't intend to use your heater, make sure it is properly vented or you have a propane cover. The type of fuel and the conditions of the environment can affect the efficiency of heat. These conditions are crucial because windy weather can spread heat and lower ambient temperatures require more energy to maintain warmth. The design of the patio heater is crucial. 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 built with reflectors, which help concentrate the heat and improve efficiency. It's also crucial to test their power output before you use them. This will ensure that they are sufficient in terms of heat to your area and ensure that you don't use up energy or gas. For black gas patio heater , you might require a greater output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) for your patio if it is large or you want to warm up an outdoor gathering. Gas patio heaters are a common choice for restaurants, bars and hotels. They can be powered by natural gas or liquid propane and can be connected to the standard electrical outlets. These heaters are often more efficient than electric patio heaters in larger spaces due to the fact that they can be controlled remotely, or with the use of a timer. They also look more appealing than other types commercial heaters and are ideal for areas that require a modern and stylish appearance. Safety Gas-fired patio heaters can be utilized in restaurants or at homes to provide comfort and warmth during cooler weather. To avoid fire hazards or injuries they must be operated and maintained in a safe manner. Make sure your heater is UL-listed or Canadian Standards Association-listed and comes with a safety system for flames that shuts off the gas in the event that a burner is tipping over. It's also important to read the instructions and warnings of the manufacturer especially those that pertain to the use of fuel. A fire extinguisher should be stored in the event of an accident. It is recommended to have a extinguisher that is class B or C, depending on the type of fuel your heater is using, as well as a bucket of water. Since gas patio heaters are generally free-standing, it's a good idea to keep them two feet away from combustible objects like tent walls, gazebos and tablecloths, as well as paper products and decorations. Also, ensure that they are not in the path of an air intake or close to an exit. They can also be top-heavy, making them prone to tilting or toppling. Therefore, it is recommended to secure them in some way using sandbags or water weights to help stabilize them. To avoid burning To avoid burns, keep pets and children at least three feet away from heaters. Don't leave them unattended, or shut them off when you're not in the vicinity. Only use natural gas heaters that have been approved by your local plumber and are in good shape. Gas patio heaters can also be affected by winds based on the type of fuel. If it's a propane heater, a strong wind could blow the cylinder away or cause the fire to die. Propane and natural gas models with an attached hose should be connected to a permanent gas line and positioned outside to minimize the risk of explosion or fire. Comfort Patio heaters come in a variety of styles and are powered by various fuel sources. The right one for your home will be determined by the dimensions of the space you want to heat, the power source available, and your preferences regarding appearance and control. Gas-powered patio heaters can heat up an area more than other kinds of. Thomas Bonfiglio is the CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality. He states that this is one of the many reasons that his restaurants in New York and New Jersey employ pyramid-top and dome-top patio heaters. “The high heat output enables us to keep our customers comfortable while they enjoy the outdoors during the cold winter months,” Bonfiglio says. Another consideration is the energy efficiency of a gas-powered heater. A heater with an increased BTU rating will usually heat an area more efficiently and faster than one that has an inferior BTU rating. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the square footage of your outdoor space by 20 to determine the amount of BTUs required to heat it. In terms of power sources propane-powered heaters are the most popular choice for homeowners. They offer portability and use the standard 20-pound propane tanks (like the ones used to fuel your grill) that can be bought at a variety of hardware stores. However, propane-powered heaters tend to consume more electricity than other models, which makes them less environmentally friendly than other fuel options. Electric heaters require a plug to operate. They're also a safer option over propane-powered models because they don't release harmful fumes or burn like gas patio heaters do. However electric patio heaters aren't as powerful as some of the other alternatives and are limited in the they can provide heat. The natural gas-powered heaters are a great option for those who wish to connect to their heaters for patio use or gas lines. They require professional installation and may be more expensive to operate than other patio heaters. Natural gas heaters are the quickest and most reliable of all three choices. This could justify the extra cost. Versatility When it is about outdoor propane heating there are a variety of options. It doesn't matter if you choose a freestanding patio heater, firepit or restaurant-style overhead unit. The key is to follow basic safety guidelines. These aren't easy to master, particularly when you're dealing with a flaming flame or hot ashes that may remain hot for as long as two days. With the right information however, you can be sure you are using your propane patio heating system properly and to the best of its capabilities. Gas patio heaters can be used to warm large areas, covering up to 20m2. Gas patio heaters can be controlled with remote control, timer, or natural gas. They typically also require a minimum of 25% open space to allow for airflow and prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide – which can be deadly when not properly ventilated. Gas patio heaters, aside from the requirement to ventilate the space, are usually very easy to operate and maintain. They can be permanently placed in areas exposed to the elements or set into flat ceilings and are often equipped with an anti-tilt switch that shuts off the unit when it senses that it's no longer upright. On the other hand those with wood-burning patio heaters, they are more difficult to operate and can be dangerous if not used correctly. The main issue with these types of heaters is that they need to be constantly filled with fuel, and the ash and ash produced must be disposed of regularly in a secure place. They are also more difficult to ignite and can produce sparks that can cause fire or injury. Whatever type of patio heater you opt for, safety must be a top priority when it comes to usage and maintenance. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and remind your children to stay away from heaters. Keep an eye on the temperature, and don't ignore any smells that could suggest a leak. Both natural gas and propane have mercaptan added to them in order to emit a sour smell should they leak.