Safety Considerations When Using a Propane Gas Patio Heater
A propane gas patio heat is a low-cost method to create a comfortable space for outdoor dining or simply enjoying the weather. It is important to adhere to safety guidelines when using these appliances.
This guide offers tips on how to use, set up and store your propane-powered heater. It also provides information on how these units function and how BTUs are related to the heat output.
Safety
Many outdoor areas, both in commercial and residential properties, are enhanced with propane gas patio heaters. These heaters are also often used in restaurants and hotels to create warm, comfortable areas that can be used to extend the use of tables and outdoor seating in colder weather. While these heaters are generally safe, there are some important safety concerns to be aware of when making use of them.
First, make sure that the heater is positioned correctly and that the tank is closed when not in use. This will minimize the chance of a leak that is accidental and keep the hose and the valve in good condition. It is crucial to check the tanks and hoses for any damages or air bubbles. It is also a good idea to store any spare tanks in an area that is well-ventilated and secure, away from open flames and heat.
Because a patio heater utilizes a flammable fuel source, it must always be kept at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire, like furniture or combustible materials within the area. Based on the location and the weather the distance could need to be increased. A carbon monoxide alarm can also be used to detect dangerous CO fumes.
Another important safety consideration is that propane patio heaters should not be moved when the flame is still on. This could disrupt gas flow and lead to a fire. It is best to have someone who is familiar with the heater moving it. These units can be heavy and could cause more harm than good if they are moved by someone who is unfamiliar with them.
Standing heaters can also tip over, posing the risk of injury to anyone who is near. To avoid this, heaters should be placed on an even surface like a concrete slab, or an outdoor table. It is also an ideal idea for the heaters to be weighed down with water bags or sand to make them less likely to fall over in stormy conditions.
A propane gas patio heater could have some issues, such as the pilot not staying lit or shutting down after a few seconds. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple to fix and can be solved with the help of a few basic tools. The problem can occur when the thermocouple is placed too far away from the pilot light. Simply pressing the thermocouple to make it tighter will fix it.
Installation
Patio heaters were once reserved only for restaurants and other commercial establishments due to their price. However, the increasing demand from consumers prompted manufacturers to create cheaper models. They can now be found in a variety of gardening and home improvement stores. Whatever type you choose it is important to know their basic installation and maintenance functions to ensure safe operation.
Propane gas patio heaters are self-contained and therefore much more portable than electric models. They require a propane cylinder in order to provide power, and it is stored in a storage compartment near the base of the heater, or in the form of a trailer with wheels that sits on the ground. Moving a table-top or freestanding model from one location to another requires only disconnecting the cylinder and transferring both components to the new location. It's best to keep the cylinder in a protected area and away from wind to avoid leaks.
Check the pilot tube, thermocouple and orifice for signs of corrosion and other issues regularly. This will ensure the proper temperature for the flame to ensure safe operation. It can also help detect any issues that could cause a premature shut-off of the burner or a leak of gas. Gas leaks pose a serious safety concern that should not be overlooked. If you smell gas, it is recommended to call emergency services immediately.
The ambience created by the flickering flames of gas patio heaters can be quite captivating particularly in dark weather. The energizing radiant heat can help to counteract the cool evening air and make the patio a relaxing place to relax and socialize. This is the reason why a lot of homeowners opt for this kind of patio heating over an electric option.
Natural gas patio heaters are another popular choice, especially for homes with natural gas lines. It is less portable than a gas heater and the extension hoses can be risky to walk on when left unattended. Natural gas has a lower heating capacity than propane.
Portability
Outdoor heaters for patios are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to enjoy and extend their outdoor living space. Contrary to electric patio heaters that are connected to an electrical power source, propane gas patio heaters are portable and self-contained making them simple to use and move around the patio. They are an excellent choice for smaller and medium-sized outdoor areas because of their flexibility.
Propane patio heaters are also economical, as they can be refilled with propane tanks that are refillable from local gas stations or convenience stores. The fact that propane is flammable makes it less safe than other fuels. Patio heaters should be kept away from children and open flames. To ensure that the heater is in good working order and to avoid corrosion it is recommended that you use a stainless steel cleaner.
The propane patio heater is heated by radiating infrared light through the emitter grid into the surrounding area. Infrared warmth is like the sun warming people and surfaces rather than heating the air, which helps to save energy and lower costs. This type of heating extends the duration of the patio season by allowing parties to start earlier in the spring, and continue through the fall and winter.
Besides providing warmth in addition to providing warmth, patio heaters can enhance the ambience of your outdoor space by providing a warm focal point for people to gather around. They are particularly helpful in bars and restaurants where customers will often sit at tables with heaters close by. Patio heaters on the outside also help to extend the duration of a party by decreasing the chill.
Best gas patio heaters UK of propane gas patio heaters is that it is easy to maintain and repair. It is crucial to clean the burner grate and burner ports periodically with a non-flammable product for cleaning. It is also an excellent idea to examine the propane tank pressure regularly and replace it if necessary. Regular maintenance should include cleaning the paint and powder coating on the heater using detergent solutions and then coating it with car wax at least once every year, based on the conditions of the weather in your area.
Energy efficiency
A propane patio heater can help extend your time outside even as temperatures begin to drop. This lets you take advantage of the warm summer weather for longer, while also helping ease the transition to cooler temperatures.
Patio heaters come in a variety of styles, sizes and capacities for heat output. Think about the dimensions of your outdoor space and how much warmth you require to select the best patio heater for your requirements. You should also look up the patio heater's BTU rating to ensure it will heat your area adequately.
Also, look for patio heaters that have a high annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. This indicates how efficient they burn fuel. This can help you save money on heating costs in the long run.
A patio heater's heat distribution system also is a factor in its energy efficiency. Certain models utilize infrared which emits a warm infrared light into the air. This helps in heating up the space quickly and evenly. Certain models combine infrared and convection technology to warm the room, which can increase the efficiency of energy use.
The type of fuel the heater is another crucial aspect to consider. Propane is the most popular choice, as it can be easily refilled by local propane stations as well as convenience shops. Butane is also available and has a higher heat output however it's more expensive to purchase and refill.
Make sure you are aware of the safety features on the propane patio heater that you are considering. A well-known safety feature is an anti-tip feature, that automatically shuts off the heater if it's tipped at a risky angle. Other safety features worth considering include oxygen depletion and overheat detection.
Make sure you follow all manufacturer instructions for testing, repairing, or maintaining your propane patio heater. Make sure that all connections are tight and free of leaks prior every use. Keep propane tanks in a upright position and in a safe and secure location away from the weather.