10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Gas Fired Patio Heaters

Gas Fired Patio Heaters Gas-fired patio heaters are becoming more popular for commercial and residential outdoor spaces. They are typically freestanding and have an reflector shield or dome to direct radiant heat downward. These models typically connect to a natural gas line which eliminates the need for propane tanks and reducing the running costs. However, they are less mobile than propane models and are susceptible to damage by strong winds. Efficiency Patio heaters are renowned for extending outdoor dining spaces throughout the winter months, but they can also pose an fire risk if used correctly. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs warn that heaters for patios can cause fires or carbon monoxide poisoning and even death if not installed, operated or maintained in a safe manner. The good news is that there are easy steps you can take to reduce these hazards. Check the heater's ventilation first. Propane and natural gas patio heaters emit deadly carbon monoxide, which is why you should not use them in enclosed or partially enclosed areas. Never store a tank of propane indoors. Propane tanks are only rated to be used for a specified time period, and if they are kept long-term, it can cause corrosion. If you don't intend to use your heater, make sure it is vented properly or you have a propane cover. The type of fuel used and environmental conditions can affect the efficiency of heat. The latter are important because windy weather can disperse the heat, whereas cooler temperatures require more energy to maintain the warmth. Another aspect to consider is the design of the patio heater. This will affect its heating ability and the power it produces. Freestanding models are typically less efficient than mounted models. Some models are built with reflectors that help to concentrate the heat and improve efficiency. It's also crucial to test the power output prior to deciding to use them. This will ensure that they're capable of providing enough heat for your area and also ensure you don't waste gas or electricity. For instance, you might require a higher amount of British Thermal Units (BTUs) when your patio is huge or you want to warm an outdoor event. Gas patio heaters are a common choice for bars, restaurants and hotels. They can be powered by gas or liquid propane and plugged into regular electrical outlets. These heaters are often more efficient than electric patio heaters for larger spaces since they can be controlled remotely, or with the use of a timer. They also have a more attractive design than other commercial heaters, making them ideal for areas that require to appear elegant and modern. Safety Gas-fired patio heaters can be utilized in restaurants and at homes to provide comfort and warmth in colder weather. To prevent injury or fire hazards they must be operated and maintained in a safe manner. Before you use, ensure that your heater is UL or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) listed and has a device to prevent flames from exploding which shuts off the gas flow in case the burner becomes unstable for any reason. It's also important to read the instructions and warnings of the manufacturer, particularly those pertaining to fuel use. A fire extinguisher needs to be available in the event of an accident. It is recommended to have a class B or C extinguisher according to the type of fuel your heater is using, as well as an empty water bucket. Since gas patio heaters are typically free-standing It's a good idea to keep them at least a few feet away from any combustible materials like gazebos, walls of tents and tablecloths, as well as decorations and paper products. Also, make sure they're not near an exit or near any mechanical air intakes of buildings. Additionally, because the heaters are typically placed at high elevations in order to spread heat throughout an area, they can be heavy and prone to tipping or tumbling. Therefore, it's recommended to secure them in some way using sandbags or water weights to stabilize them. To avoid burns To avoid burning, keep pets and children at least three feet from heaters. Don't leave them unattended, or turn them off when you're not in the vicinity. If you're using natural gas heaters be sure to use only those approved by the local plumbing inspector, and ensure that they're in good working state. Gas patio heaters are affected by winds based on the fuel type. If it's a propane heater, strong winds could blow the cylinder off or cause the fire to die. Natural gas or propane models with an attached hose need to be connected to an ongoing line and positioned outside to minimize the risk of explosion or fire. Comfort Patio heaters come in a range of designs and are powered by a variety of fuel sources. The best patio heater for your home is based on the dimensions of your outdoor space and the power source available and your preferences for appearance and control. Gas-powered patio heaters have the potential to warm an area with more heat than other types of patio heaters. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, says that's one of the reasons his restaurants mostly use pyramid and dome-top patio heaters in their New York and New Jersey locations. “The high heat output allows us to keep our diners cozy while they relax outdoors in the winter,” Bonfiglio says. The energy efficiency of a heater that is powered by gas is an additional factor to take into account. A heater with a higher BTU rating will usually be able to heat a room quicker and more efficiently than one with less of a 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 needed to warm it. The most well-liked choice for homeowners is propane-powered heaters. They can be portable and use standard 20-pound propane tanks (like those used for your grill) that can be bought at most hardware stores. But propane-powered heaters are also known to use more power than other models, which makes them less eco-friendly than other fuel options. Electric-powered heaters, on contrary, require a plug into a standard power outlet in order to operate. They're also safer over propane-powered models since they don't emit harmful fumes or cause fires like gas patio heaters do. However, electric patio heaters also aren't as powerful as other alternatives and are limited in how they can generate heat. Natural gas-powered heaters on the other side, are a good option for those who wish to connect their patio heaters to an existing natural gas line. They require professional installation and can be a bit more costly to operate than other types of patio heaters. Natural gas heaters are the fastest and most consistent of all three options. This may be a reason to justify the cost. Versatility There are a myriad of choices when it comes to outdoor heating using propane. It doesn't matter if you choose a freestanding patio heater, firepit or restaurant overhead unit. The most important thing is to follow basic safety guidelines. These aren't easy to master, especially when you're dealing with a fiery flame or hot ashes that can remain hot for up to two days. However, with the right knowledge you can be sure you're using your propane patio heater with care and getting the most out of its capabilities. Gas-fired patio heaters are a strong and efficient way to heat larger spaces, able to cover an area of up to 20m2. Gas patio heaters can be controlled with remote control, timer, or natural gas. They usually require a minimum of 25% open space to allow for a regular flow of air and to prevent carbon monoxide build-up which could cause fatalities when not properly ventilated. Apart from the fact that they require a space for ventilation gas patio heaters are generally extremely easy to operate and maintain. They can be placed in areas exposed to the elements, or recessed into flat ceilings and are often equipped with an anti-tilt switch which will shut off the heater when it detects that it's no longer upright. Wood-burning patio heaters on the other hand are more difficult to operate and could be dangerous if not used in a safe manner. The main problem with these kinds of heaters is that they have to be constantly supplied with fuel, and the ash and ash produced must be regularly discarded in a secure place. They are also much more difficult to ignite, and they can produce sparks that can cause fire or cause injury. Whatever Fireplaces And Stoves of patio heater you decide for, safety should be the top priority in terms of 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 unusual smells that might suggest a leak. Both propane and natural gas have mercaptan added to them in order to give off a foul odor should they leak.