What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
Gas Fired Patio Heaters Gas-fired patio heaters are increasingly popular for residential and commercial outdoor areas. They are typically freestanding and feature a reflector dome or shield to direct radiant warmth downward. These models usually connect to a natural gas line and eliminate the need for propane tanks and reducing running costs. They aren't as portable and more susceptible to high winds than propane models. Efficiency Patio heaters are popular for their ability to extend outdoor dining into the winter months. However, they can cause fire hazards if they are not operated correctly. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) warn that patio heaters are dangerous in the event that they are not installed, maintained or operated in a safe manner. They can cause fires, carbon monoxide poisoning or even death. There are a few steps you can take to avoid these hazards. First, check the heater's ventilation. Patio heaters that run on propane or natural gas emit deadly carbon monoxide. It is not recommended to make use of these heaters inside or in enclosed spaces. Never store a propane tank indoors, either. Propane tanks are intended to be used for a certain period of time and, if stored for a long time, they could cause rust. Instead, make sure you have a cover for your propane tank, or that your heater is vented when not in use. The type of fuel used and environmental conditions can also influence the efficiency of heat. These conditions are important, since windy weather can disperse heat and lower temperatures require more energy to maintain warmth. Another aspect to consider is the design of the patio heater. The design of the patio heater can influence its heating capacity as well as power. Freestanding models are less efficient than those mounted. Some models have reflectors to aid in concentrating heat and increase efficiency. Finally, it's important to check the power output of your patio heaters before you start using them. This will ensure that they can offer enough heat to your area, and you don't waste energy or gas. For example, you may require a higher amount of British Thermal Units (BTUs) if your patio is large or you're looking to warm an outdoor gathering. For bars, restaurants, hotels and other venues for hospitality the variety of gas fired patio heaters makes them a popular choice. These heaters can be powered by gas or liquid propane and connected to regular electrical outlets. These heaters are often more efficient than electric patio heaters for larger spaces since they can be controlled remotely or by the use of a timer. They also have a more appealing appearance than other kinds of commercial heaters, making them perfect for spaces that require to look elegant and modern. Safety Gas-fired patio heaters are used in restaurants and at homes to provide warmth and comfort in colder weather. However, they must be properly maintained and used to avoid injuries or fire hazards. Before you use, ensure that your heater is UL or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) listed and has an ignition failure device that shuts off the gas flow in the event that a burner tips over for any reason. It is important to be aware of the instructions and warnings of the manufacturer, especially those that concern fuel usage. A fire extinguisher should be kept nearby in case of an accident. You should also have a bucket or bucket of water as well as a class C or B extinguisher based on what fuel type your heater uses. Since gas patio heaters are generally free-standing It's a good idea to keep them at least two feet away from combustible items like gazebos, walls of tents and tablecloths, as well as decorations and paper products. Also, make sure they're not located in the path of an exit or near any mechanical air intakes in structures. They can also be top-heavy, making them prone to tilting or toppling. It's best that you secure them using sandbags or water weights. For the best safety, you should ensure that pets and children are kept at a minimum of three feet from all heaters while they're operating to avoid burns. It is also important to never leave them unattended or turn them off when you aren't in the immediate vicinity. If you're using a natural gas heater 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 also affected by wind, based on the type of fuel. If it's a propane model, an intense wind could blow the cylinder away or cause the fire to go out. Propane and natural gas models that have an attached hose must be connected to a permanent gas line and positioned outside to limit the chance of explosion or fire. Comfort Patio heaters come in a variety of designs and are powered by various fuel sources. The ideal one for your home will be determined by the size of the outdoor space you'd like to heat and the power source you have available and your preferences in terms of appearance and control. Gas-powered patio heaters can provide more heat than other kinds of. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, says that's one of the reasons his restaurants primarily use pyramid and dome-top patio heaters in their New York and New Jersey locations. “The high temperature output lets us keep our customers cozy while they enjoy dining outdoors during the winter months,” says Bonfiglio. The energy efficiency of a heater powered by gas is an additional factor to consider. A heater with an impressive BTU output is likely to warm a room faster and more efficiently than one with an inferior rating. Multiplying the area of the outdoor area by 20 will yield the number of BTUs required to heat it. In terms of power sources, propane-powered heaters are the most popular choice for homeowners. They can be portable and use the standard 20-pound propane tanks (like those used for your grill) which can be purchased at most hardware stores. However, propane-powered heaters tend to consume more electricity than other models, making them less eco-friendly than other fuel options. Electric-powered heaters, on the contrary, require the plug of an outlet for power to operate. They're also a safer option over propane-powered models because they don't release harmful fumes and don't cause fires like gas heaters for patios do. However electric patio heaters aren't as powerful as other alternatives and are limited in how much heat they can deliver. 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. They require professional installation and can be a bit more expensive to run than other kinds of patio heaters. Natural gas heaters are among the most efficient and most reliable of the three choices. This could justify the additional cost. Versatility There are a variety of options for outdoor heating with propane. It doesn't matter if you select a freestanding patio heater, firepit or restaurant overhead unit. The key is to abide by the most basic safety rules. They can be a challenge to master, particularly when you're dealing with a hot flame or hot ashes that may remain hot for as long as two days. But, with gas patio heater small can be sure you're using your propane patio heater with care, and getting the most out of its potential. Gas-fired patio heaters are a powerful and efficient way to heat larger areas. They can cover an area of up to 20 square meters. Gas patio heaters can be controlled via remote control or timer, or even natural gas. They usually require at least 25% of the space open to allow for regular airflow and to prevent carbon monoxide build-up which could cause fatalities when not properly ventilated. Gas patio heaters, aside from the need to ventilate the space they are generally very simple to manage and maintain. They can be permanently mounted in areas exposed to the elements, or placed into flat roofs. They are typically fitted with an anti-tilt switch that will shut the unit off if it detects that the unit is no longer in a straight position. Wood-burning patio heaters however are more difficult to use and could be dangerous if not properly used. These heaters are difficult to operate because they require constant fueling, and the ash and smoke must be regularly removed from an area that is safe. They are also harder to ignite and may cause sparks which could cause injury or fire. Whatever type of patio heater you opt 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. Do not ignore any unusual smells or changes in temperature that could be a sign of an odor of gas. Both propane and natural gases contain mercaptan to produce an unpleasant odor when they leak.