Natural Gas Patio Heater
A natural gas patio heater is an excellent method to keep outdoor areas warm. Its main benefit is that it can be connected to existing natural gas (NG) lines, which means you do not have to think about refilling propane tanks.
However, there are a few things to think about before you choose one. This article will examine the different options, including heat output and safety, in addition to installation.
Cost
A natural gas patio heater can make it easier to enjoy your outdoor area well into the night. These units are available in various sizes and can be wall-mounted freestanding, or attached to a post. The best model will have features that can make the use of your patio more secure and easy. There are models that have an anti-slant feature that will turn off the burner whenever it tilts more than 47 degrees. Some models are made of durable materials such as stainless steel and aluminum for strength and corrosion resistance.
These units are powered by natural gas, propane or electricity, and produce a maximum of 46,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Electric models are plugged directly into standard 120-volt outlets. They are the easiest and most user-friendly however they do not heat as well as natural gas or propane ones.
Propane patio heaters are large and umbrella-like. They typically have an open base that houses tanks of 20 pounds of propane similar to those you'd use to fuel a gas grill. The tanks are less expensive than the fuel used in an indoor space heater, however they require refills frequently and they aren't able to be moved as easily. You can also find smaller, tabletop propane heaters designed to sit on table tops and are designed to hold propane tanks that are camp-style.
The cost of a natural-gas patio heater is determined by its dimensions and features, like wheels that allow for easy mobility, quick ignition and a remote with various settings. You can also choose from a wide range of finishes, such as hammered bronze, resin wicker and decorative stone faces, to complement your outdoor decor.
Natural-gas-burning and hardwired electric patio heaters need a professional installation and can't be moved like propane and gas models, however 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 an extra stylish appearance. However, the cost of a natural-gas patio heater is usually more expensive than those that run on electricity or propane.
Heat Output
Pay attention to the output of heat from a natural-gas patio heater when shopping. The number of BTUs will determine the warmth your guests will feel, as well as how long it will keep your porch and balcony warm. The bigger the area you can heat, the greater the BTUs.
No matter if your outdoor space is open or covered and sunny, gas patio heaters can allow you to enjoy the outdoors year-round. The majority of models come with adjustable heat settings and run on natural gas or propane. They can be hung on the ceiling or walls or stand alone. If space on the floor is limited, opt for a portable natural gas patio heater that has wheels that utilizes propane tanks that are readily available to power the burner. Look for garden patio gas heater as gas shutoffs to stop leaks in the event of a fire going out, or an anti-tilt feature that stops the fuel supply immediately when the unit tilts over 47 degrees.
The best natural gas patio heaters offer ample warmth without taking up too much room on the deck or in your backyard. Large free-standing models that resemble floor lamps offer radiant heat over larger areas and are made of durable metal construction. Tabletop models with small footprints are ideal in dining rooms with small spaces. Models that utilize natural or propane gas are available in a variety of attractive finishes.
For a more sophisticated look, you can find patio heaters that use natural gas or propane with the hammered-bronze, resin-wicker, or decorative stone front. Other features to look for include an ignition button that can be pushed, an auto shut-off safety valve when the unit tips over and a rotary dial control which allows you to easily alter and set the flame. The best propane patio heaters are made from stainless steel for durability and strength, while others are made from aluminum to make them lighter in weight.
Safety
Gas patio heaters are a popular method to increase the amount of time you spend outdoors. Gas patio heaters come in a variety of styles, ranging from ones that stand on their own and use a propane tank to others that are connected to the gas line in your home. The style you pick will depend on your budget as well as how much you're looking to heat your space.
Propane-fueled units are typically a pole or stand with a reflector dome, or shield, and a base that is able to hold the 20-pound propane (LP) tank. These heaters offer a broad range of power output, from 41,000 BTU's to more than 100,000. These heaters come with safety features, such as an automatic shut-off valve and an electronic lighter to enable easy ignition. The tip-over switch automatically shuts off gas flow when the unit is tipped over.
Portable gas heaters for patios should only be used outside on flat, hard noncombustible, nonflammable surfaces. They should be located at least three feet from all combustible materials and at least 12 inches away from anything that could ignite including fences and even trees. The fuel cylinder should be stored outdoors, at a minimum of three feet from any building or structure, including stairs, windows, and doors. If you use a propane patio heater, check the hose and connections regularly for leaks. You can test these connections by using a soapy water solution. Look for the UL or CSA marks on the patio heater made of propane to ensure that it meets the safety standards of the national standard.
A natural gas patio heater is connected to the gas line in your home. It has an increased BTU rating when in comparison to propane heaters. garden patio gas heater is more expensive to run, however it is safer and doesn't require the replacement of a propane tank. These units are great for patios in homes, restaurants and apartment and condominium buildings.
Whatever style of patio heaters you choose be sure that they are approved for outdoor or indoor use. Propane and natural gas patio heaters could release carbon monoxide when they are employed indoors in an enclosed space, and this can be fatal. Electric patio heaters, on the contrary, do not release any pollutants and can be utilized in a sealed area.
Installation
Natural gas patio heaters connect to the gas line in your home. They don't need a propane tank, like other types of outdoor heating. This makes them a much more convenient and safer alternative to traditional propane heaters. In addition, they don't release the same amount of smoke as propane heaters do. They require professional installation and are more expensive than propane heaters.
They are a very popular accessory for both commercial and residential properties and can make your patio more comfortable even if temperatures drop below freezing. These heaters are safe to use since they don't emit heat on the surface, but rather radiate heat through the inside of the silvered cover. These heaters are also very efficient to run because they don't require an excessive amount of electricity.
Patio heaters are available in two forms: wall-mounted and freestanding. If wall-mounted, they must be positioned at minimum 8 feet above ground to ensure that no one is in the path of radiant heat. Freestanding heaters on the other hand, need at minimum 14 feet to avoid coming into contact with combustible objects within the area.
They come with safety features that protect people and the property in the event of an issue. For instance, the majority of them come with a tilt shut-off valve that causes the heater to stop using energy (whether it's fuel or electricity) if it is accidentally tilted or falls over. They also include a flame sensor that detects the presence of flames to prevent accidental ignition.

To ensure that the gas heaters are safe for use and safe for use, a licensed plumber must be employed to install them. These professionals must be familiar with local and state plumbing and heating codes to ensure that the gas lines are correctly calibrated to the heaters. They should be certified to check for gas leaks in appliances.
Other expenses may be additional to the labor and materials costs associated with the gas patio heater install. These could include the removal or replacing any damaged structures or finishes. These costs include framing, surfaces as well as plumbing systems. Other potential expenses may include bringing existing systems into compliance with the current building codes. These costs should be included in the overall estimate.