Natural Gas Patio Heater

A natural gas patio heating system is a great choice to keep outdoor areas warm. Its main benefit is that it can be connected to existing natural gas lines (NG) which means you won't need to worry about refilling your propane tanks.

However, there are a few things to consider before you choose one. This article will explore the various options available, including the heat output, safety and installation.

Cost

You can relax in your outdoor space well into the evening by installing an outdoor heater that is natural gas. These units are available in various sizes and can be wall-mounted, freestanding or mounted to a post. The ideal model should contain features that make using the patio safer and more convenient. There are models that have an anti-slant function that will shut off the burner whenever it tilts more than 47 degrees. Some models are also made from durable materials like aluminum and stainless steel for strength and corrosion resistance.

These units are powered by propane, natural gas or electricity, and produce a maximum of about 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models are plugged into standard 120-volt outlets and are the most simple to set up and use but they don't provide heat as well as natural gas or propane ones.

Propane patio heaters are tall and umbrella-like, and typically have a a hollow base that holds 20-pound liquid propane tanks similar to those you would use for a gas grill. The tanks are cheaper but they need to be filled frequently and cannot easily be moved. There are also smaller propane heaters that are tabletop designed to be placed on top of tables and utilize propane tanks that weigh 1 pound.

The cost of a natural-gas patio heater is determined by its size and features, like wheels for easy mobility, quick ignition and a remote that has different settings. You can also select from a wide selection of finishes, including resin wicker, hammered bronze and decorative stone faces, to match your outdoor decor.

Natural-gas-burning and electric patio gas heaters that are hardwired need a professional installation and can't be moved as easily as propane or gas versions, but they do have a more lasting appearance and function as an indoor space heater. You can choose a sleek model that runs through gas lines that are rigid to add a fashionable appearance. However, the price of a natural gas patio heater is usually higher than those running on propane or electricity.

Heat Output

Be aware of the heat output of natural-gas patio heaters while shopping. The number of BTUs reflects the warmth that your guests will feel, as well as the length of time it can keep your porch and balcony warm. The higher the number of BTUs the more area will be heated.

Whether your outdoor area is open or covered, a gas patio heater can help you comfortably enjoy the outdoors year-round. The majority of models come with adjustable heat settings and operate on either natural gas or propane patio gas. They can be a freestanding unit or mounted on the ceiling or wall. If you have limited area for flooring, you may want to consider a portable natural-gas patio heater on wheels that is powered by propane tanks. When mounting the heater on a patio consider options such as gas shut-offs to avoid leaks if the flame fails to ignite or an anti-tilt design that will stop the fuel supply when the heater is tilted over 47 degrees.

The best natural-gas patio heaters offer plenty of warmth on your deck or in your backyard without taking up a lot of space. Large free-standing models that resemble floor lamps provide radiant heat across larger areas, and have a sturdy metal construction. Tabletop models that have a smaller footprint are great for intimate dining areas. There are models that work with natural gas or propane, and are available in a variety of appealing finishes.

For a more upscale look, there are patio heaters that use natural gas or propane gas patio heater, and have a hammered-bronze, resin-wicker or a decorative stone front. Other features to look out for include the ignition system that is a push button and an auto shut-off safety valve if the unit is tippy and a rotary dial control which allows you to easily set and adjust the flame. Some of the best propane patio heaters are made from stainless steel to guarantee the durability and strength of the unit, while others are made out of aluminum for lighter weight.

Safety

Gas patio heaters are a popular way to increase the amount of time you spend in your outdoor space. They come in a variety of styles, from freestanding models that contain tanks of propane to ones that are connected to your home's natural gas line. The type of heater you select will depend on your budget and the amount you'd like to heat.

Propane-fueled units are typically mounted on a pole or stand that has a reflector dome or shield and a base which houses a 20-pound propane (LP) tank. These heaters have a wide range of power output, from 41,000 BTU's to more than 100,000. They are equipped with safety features, such as an auto shut-off valve and an electronic lighter that allows for simple ignition. They also include a tip-over switch that automatically turns off the flow of gas when the unit tip over.

Portable patio heaters made of LP are designed to be used outdoors on flat, non-combustible, non-slip surfaces. They should be kept at minimum three feet away from all combustible objects and kept at least 12 inches from anything that could ignite including fences and trees. The fuel cylinder must always be kept outside and at least three feet away from any windows, stairways, building and doors. If you use a propane buying patio gas heater, make sure you check the hose and connection points frequently for leaks. You can test the connections using a solution of soapy water. Examine the UL or CSA marks on the patio heater made of propane to ensure that it is in compliance with national safety standards.

A natural gas gas patio heater is connected to the natural gas line in your home and provides greater BTU capacity than propane heaters. It can be more expensive to operate however it's safer and doesn't require replacing a propane tank. These units are ideal for patios in restaurants, residential patios, and common areas in apartment and condominium buildings.

Whatever type of patio heater you pick be sure that it's suitable for outdoor or indoor use. If natural gas or propane patio heaters are used in a confined area, they can release dangerous carbon monoxide. Electric patio heaters on the contrary, don't emit any pollutant and can be used in a closed area.

Installation

Natural gas patio heaters connect to the gas line of your home. They don't require tanks for propane, as do other kinds of outdoor heating. This makes them more secure and a better option than traditional propane heaters. Additionally, they don't emit more smoke than propane heaters emit. They do require professional installation and are more expensive than propane heaters.

They are a popular addition to both commercial and residential properties. They can make your patio a comfortable place to be even when temperatures drop below freezing. They are extremely safe to use because they do not emit heat from the exterior of the heater, but instead radiate heat from inside the silvered hood. These heaters are very energy efficient as they don't consume lots of electricity.

Patio heaters can either be mounted on the wall or freestanding. If they are wall-mounted, the heaters should be placed at minimum 8 feet from the ground, so that people do not get in the way of the heat radiating from them. Freestanding heaters on the other hand, need at 14 feet in order to avoid contact with combustible objects in the vicinity.

These heaters have built-in security features that protect the user and their property in the event of a malfunction. The majority of heaters come with an off valve for tilt that stops the heater from using fuel or electricity if it accidentally falls or is tilted. They also have a flame sensor which detects the presence of flame to stop accidental ignition.

To ensure that gas heaters are safe to use, it's best to hire a plumber who is licensed to install them. These professionals must be familiar with local and state plumbing and heating codes to ensure that the gas lines are sized for the heaters. They should also be trained to examine gas appliances for leaks.

In addition to the cost of the labor and materials required for the gas patio heater installation Other expenses could be incurred to remove or replacing any structures or finishes that are damaged during the process. These costs include framing and surface finishes as well as plumbing systems. Other possible expenses could include making existing systems more compliant with the latest building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate.