7 Helpful Tricks To Making The Best Use Of Your Gas Fired Patio Heaters
Gas Fired Patio Heaters
Gas fired patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular for residential and commercial outdoor spaces. These units are usually free-standing and come with a reflector dome or shield to direct radiant warmth down.
These models typically connect to a natural gas line and eliminate the need for propane tanks and reducing the running costs. However they aren't as portable than propane models and could be affected by strong winds.
Efficiency
Patio heaters are known for their ability to extend outdoor dining into winter months. However, they can cause fire hazards if they are not used correctly. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) warn that patio heaters can be dangerous when they are not maintained, installed or operated in a safe manner. They can lead to fires, carbon-monoxide poisoning, or even death. There are simple steps you can follow to stay clear of these dangers.
The first thing you should do is to examine the heater's ventilation for proper functioning. Patio heaters that use natural gas or propane release dangerous carbon monoxide. It is not recommended to use them indoors or in enclosed spaces. Never store a tank of propane indoors. Propane tanks can only be used for as long as they last before they begin to become rusty. Make sure that you have a propane tank cover or that your heater is vented when not in use.
The efficiency of heat is also influenced by the type of fuel used and the environmental conditions. These conditions are crucial, since windy weather can disperse heat and lower temperatures require additional energy to keep warm.
The design of the patio heater is also important. This will impact its heating ability and the power it produces. Freestanding models are less efficient than mounted models. Certain models are equipped with reflectors, which help focus the heat and improve efficiency.
It's also crucial to test their power output prior to use them. This will ensure they are sufficient in terms of heat to your area and ensure that you don't use up energy or gas. For example, you may need a higher output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) for your patio if it is large or you wish to warm up an outdoor gathering.
For restaurants, bars, hotels and other venues for hospitality the variety of gas fired patio heaters is what makes them a preferred option. These heaters can be powered by liquid propane or gas and connected to the standard electrical outlets. These heaters are often more efficient than electric patio heaters for larger spaces since they can be controlled remotely or via an alarm clock. They also have a more attractive aesthetic than other types of commercial heaters, which makes them ideal for areas that require to appear elegant and modern.
Safety
When used at your home or in outdoor dining areas of restaurants, gas fired patio heaters offer comfort that can increase the enjoyment of cooler temperatures. However, they must be properly maintained and utilized to prevent injuries or fire dangers. Be sure that your heater is certified by the Canadian Standards Association or UL and includes a flame failure system that will shut off the gas in the event of a burner tipping.
It's also essential to study the manufacturer's directions and warnings especially those that pertain to fuel usage. A fire extinguisher should be kept nearby in case of an accident. It is recommended to have a extinguisher of class B or C in accordance with 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 recommended to keep them at least just a few feet from combustible items like tent walls, gazebos and tablecloths, as well as decorations and paper products. Also, ensure they're not in the path of an exit or close to any mechanical air intakes of structures.
In addition, as the heaters are typically placed at high elevations in order to spread heat throughout an area, they could be heavy and prone to tipping or tumbling. Therefore, it's recommended to secure them in a way using sandbags or water weights to help stabilize them.
For your safety, you should keep children and pets at least three feet away from any heater while they're operating to avoid burning. Do not 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 condition.
Based on the fuel source gas patio heaters can also be affected by winds. A strong wind can blow the propane cylinder away or cause a fire to go out in the case of a model that has the propane cylinder. Natural gas or propane models that have an attached hose need to be connected to an ongoing line and positioned outside to minimize the risk for fire or explosion.
Comfort
Patio heaters come in a variety of styles and are powered by different fuel sources. The ideal one for your home will be determined by the dimensions of the space you'd like to heat as well as the power source available and your preferences in terms of appearance and control.
Gas-powered patio heaters have the potential to warm up an area faster and with more heat than other types of heaters for patios. 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 use dome-top and pyramid-top patio heaters. "The high temperature output lets us keep our customers warm while they eat outside in the winter," Bonfiglio says.
The energy efficiency of a heater powered by gas is an additional aspect to take into consideration. A heater with a high BTU output will typically warm a room faster and more efficiently than a heater that has an inferior rating. A quick 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 energy sources, propane-powered heaters are the most common choice for homeowners. They are portable and make use of standard 20-pound tanks of propane (like those used for your grill) and are available at a majority of hardware stores. However, propane-powered heaters tend to use more power than other models, making them less green than other fuel options.
Electric-powered heaters, on other hand, need the plug of a standard power outlet to operate. They are also safer than propane-powered ones since they emit no harmful fumes or ignite like gas patio heaters. However electric patio heaters aren't as powerful as other options and are limited in the they can provide heat.
Natural gas-powered heaters, on the other on the other hand, are a great option for those who wish to connect their heaters for patio use to an existing natural gas line. These heaters require a professional installation, and they can be more costly to run than other heaters for patios. Natural gas heaters provide the most consistent and rapid warmth of the three options, which may make it worthwhile to invest the extra money.
Versatility
When it is time to heat your outdoor propane there are a variety of options. 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 the basic safety guidelines. These rules can be difficult to master, particularly when you're dealing with a burning flame or hot ashes that could remain hot for two full days. With the right understanding you can be sure you're using your propane patio heater safely and getting the most out of its capabilities.
Gas patio heaters can be used to heat large areas, ranging from to 20 square meters. They operate on propane or natural gas and, based on the model, they can be switched on and off via remote control or scheduled by timer. They also typically require at least 25% open space to allow for regular airflow and to prevent carbon monoxide build-up which could be fatal in the absence of proper ventilation.
Gas patio heaters, aside from the requirement for a ventilation space they are generally very simple to operate and maintain. They can be permanently installed in areas exposed to the elements or set into ceilings with flat surfaces and are often equipped with an anti-tilt switch which shuts off the unit when it senses that it isn't upright anymore.
Wood-burning patio heaters, on the other hand, are more difficult to operate and are a risk if not properly used. The primary issue with these types of heaters is that they require to be continually supplied with fuel, and the smoke and ash produced must be disposed of regularly in a secure place. Best gas patio heaters UK are also harder to ignite and may cause sparks that could cause injuries or even fire.
Safety should be a top priority when it comes time to use and maintain your outdoor heater. Keep a fire extinguisher in the vicinity and remind your children to stay away from heaters. Keep an eye on the temperature, and don't ignore any smells that could signal a leak. Both natural gas and propane have mercaptan added to them in order to create a sour odor should they leak.