A Brief History Of Gas Fired Patio Heaters In 10 Milestones
Gas Fired Patio Heaters Gas fired patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular for residential and commercial outdoor areas. These units are usually free-standing and feature a reflector shield or dome that directs radiant warmth down. These models typically connect to natural gas lines which eliminates the need for propane tanks and reducing running costs. They are less portable and more susceptible to strong winds than propane models. Efficiency Patio heaters are popular for extending outdoor dining to the winter months. However, they can cause fire hazards when they are not used correctly. The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) warn that patio heaters can be dangerous when they are not maintained, installed or operated properly. They can cause fires, carbon monoxide poisoning or even death. The good news is that there are easy steps you can take to avoid these hazards. Make sure the heater's vents are checked first. Propane and natural gas patio heaters release dangerous carbon monoxide, which is why you should not use them indoors or in partially enclosed areas. Don't store tanks of propane in a closed space. Propane tanks are designed to be used for a certain period of time, and if they are kept long-term, it can lead to corrosion. If you don't use your heater, make sure it is properly vented or that you have a propane cover. Heat efficiency can also be affected by the kind of fuel used and the conditions in which it is used. These conditions are crucial since windy weather can disperse heat and lower temperatures require more energy to keep warm. Another factor to consider is the design of the patio heater. The design of the patio heater may affect its heating capacity and power. Freestanding models tend to be less efficient than mounted versions. Some models are built with reflectors to help focus the heat and improve efficiency. It's also important to check their power output prior to utilize them. This will ensure they are able to provide enough heat for your area and that 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 up an outdoor gathering. For bars, restaurants, hotels and other venues for hospitality, the versatility of gas fired patio heaters is what makes them a preferred option. They can be powered by natural gas or liquid propane and are plugged into standard electrical outlets. They are usually a better option than electric heaters for large spaces, as they can easily be operated via remote control or by the use of a timer. They are also more attractive than other types commercial heaters and are perfect for spaces that require a contemporary, stylish look. Safety When used at either at home or in outdoor dining areas of restaurants, gas-fired patio heaters provide comfort that can enhance the enjoyment of cooler temperatures. However, they should always be maintained and properly utilized to prevent injuries or fire hazards. Be sure that your heater is certified by the Canadian Standards Association or UL and includes a flame failure system that shuts off the gas in the event of a burner tipping. It is important to read the directions and warnings of the manufacturer, particularly those that pertain to the use of fuel. It is also recommended to have an extinguisher in case of any accidents that may occur. You should also have a bucket of a bucket of water and a class C or B extinguisher depending on what fuel type your heater uses. Since gas patio heaters are usually free-standing It's a good idea to keep them at least a few feet away from combustible objects like gazebos, walls of tents and tablecloths, as well as paper products and decorations. Also, make sure they're not near an exit or near any mechanical air intakes on buildings. They can also be top heavy, which makes them susceptible to tilting or toppling. It is recommended to secure them with sandbags, or water weights. To ensure your safety, you should keep children and pets a minimum of three feet away from any heater when they're in operation to avoid burning. Also, you should never leave them unattended or turn them off when you're not in the area. If you're using natural gas heaters ensure that you only use ones that are approved by your 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, a strong wind could blow the cylinder away or cause the fire to go out. Natural gas or propane models that have an attached hose have to be connected to an ongoing line and positioned outdoors to reduce the risk for fire or explosion. Comfort Patio heaters come in a variety of styles and are powered by various fuel sources. The ideal one for your home will be determined by the dimensions of the space you wish to heat and the power source you have available and your preferences regarding appearance and control. Gas-powered patio heaters have the potential to warm an area faster and with more heat than other types of heaters for patios. Thomas Bonfiglio is the CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality. He states that this is among the many reasons that his restaurants in New York and New Jersey use dome-top and pyramid-top patio heaters. “The high heat output allows us to keep our customers cozy while they relax outdoors in the cold winter months,” Bonfiglio says. The energy efficiency of a heater that is powered by gas is an additional factor to take into account. A heater with more BTU rating is likely to heat an area quicker and more efficiently than one with a lower BTU rating. Multiplying the area of the outdoor area by 20 will yield the number of BTUs required to heat it. In terms of the power source propane-powered heaters are the most commonly used choice for homeowners. They are portable and utilize the standard 20-pound propane tanks (like those used to heat your grill), which can be purchased at most hardware stores. But propane-powered models generally draw more power, making them less environmentally friendly than other fuel options. Electric-powered heaters, on the other hand, require the plug of an outlet for power to operate. They're also safer than their propane-powered counterparts because they don't release harmful fumes and do not ignite like gas patio heaters do. Electric patio heaters aren't as hot as other alternatives and are limited in the amount of heat they can produce. The natural gas-powered heaters are the ideal option for those who wish to connect to their patio heaters already connected to a gas line. These heaters require professional installation and may be more costly to run than other patio heaters. Natural gas heaters are the quickest and most consistent of all three choices. This could justify the extra cost. Versatility When it comes to outdoor propane heating there are a lot of choices. It doesn't matter if you choose a freestanding patio heater, firepit or restaurant-style overhead unit. The most important thing is to follow basic safety guidelines. They aren't easy to master, especially when you're dealing with a flaming flame or hot ashes that could remain hot for as long as two days. But, with the right information, you can ensure you're using your propane patio heater safely, and getting the most out of its potential. Gas fired patio heaters are a powerful and efficient method to heat larger spaces, able to cover up to 20 square meters. They can be powered by either natural gas or propane and, based on the model, can be turned on and off with a remote control or programmed by timer. They require a minimum of 25% of open space for airflow to stop carbon monoxide from building up, which can be fatal if not ventilated properly. Apart from the fact that they require a space to ventilate, gas patio heaters are very easy to use and maintain. They can be installed in areas exposed to the elements or recessed into ceilings with flat surfaces and are often equipped with an anti-tilt feature which will shut off the heater when it detects that it isn't upright anymore. On the other hand those with wood-burning patio heaters, they are more difficult to operate and could be dangerous if used properly. They are difficult to operate because they require constant fueling, and the ash and smoke must be removed regularly from a secure area. They are also more difficult to ignite and may cause sparks that can cause injury or fire. Safety should always be a priority when it comes time to maintain and use your patio heater. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and remind your children to stay clear from heaters. Do not ignore any unusual smells or temperature changes that could be a sign of an odor of gas. calor gas patio heater and propane gases contain mercaptan to produce an unpleasant odor when they leak.