Propane Patio Heaters: Are They Safe Or Not?

No question you can expand the use and enjoyment of your patio or deck with an LP patio heater. However, they generate high heat from gas, so are they safe?

Of course, there probably is not anything that is perfectly safe. If that is what you are looking for, forget any kind of patio heater. For that matter, you should have your gas or electric furnace removed, as well as any appliances. You also should buy a horse and give your car away.

Of course, whether you are sitting on a horse or next to a patio heater, no one can guarantee your safety. What you do with that horse or heater, however, can greatly impact your safety and those who are with you. Therefore, understanding and applying some common sense precautions, such as those presented here, can make all the difference and allow you to enjoy all the benefits of this popular and useful product.

20-pound propane tanks are most commonly used to fuel this type of patio heater, the same tank often used to fuel the flame on a bar-be-cue grill. First of all, you may take comfort in the fact that it takes a great deal of effort to blow up a propane tank. They are virtually indestructable.

More important for our discussion are the connections between the tank and heater, as well as the flame that is involved. Faulty connections can produce gas leaks, which are very dangerous, as are poorly managed flames from any source. A good idea is not to use a dented or rusted propane tank, or one with a damaged valve, collar or footing.

Should you smell gas, shut off the gas and extinguish the flame. If the odor continues, contact your gas supplier or fire department. They will be able to restore safety and peace of mind.

Smell is not the only test for gas leaks. Applying soap and water to connection points with the gas valve open will create visible bubbling where there is a leak. Owner’s manuals may suggest other ways to test for leaks. One very important and often overlooked precaution is to read and follow owner’s manual guidelines.

Let your family and friends know if you think it is safe to use a match or lighter to check for leaks. They may want to visit next door, quickly. Also, this is a time when smoking and drinking may especially be hazardous to your health, which should not require a message from the Surgeon General.

Even though better manufacturers check factory connections for leaks, parts can loosen as a result of movement during shipping. Make up your mind to take the time to double-check every connection. Also, most patio heaters require at least some assembly, so take whatever time is needed to do a good job.

When you put things together, if you are one of those persons who, despite intense concentration and pure intention, somehow end up with extra parts laying around, this would be a good time to lay around while someone else makes sure the heater is assembled correctly.

Outdoor patio heaters should not be used indoors, as every owner’s manual will state. Indoor fireplaces have chimneys for a reason. Burning anything requires proper ventilation, and patio heaters are not equipped with a chimney. Combustion of propane creates carbon monoxide, which, in enclosed areas, can kill you.

The importance of maintaining the manufacturer’s recommended clearance from combustible materials cannot be overstated. Generally, at least 3′ is needed. On patios and decks, this includes overhanging trees and shrubs, siding, children’s toys, paper plates, clothing. Of course, some materials require much more clearance, such as gasoline, paint and other flammable vapors and liquids.

The surface around the patio heater’s dome and burner becomes extremely hot. Temperatures approaching 1600 Fahrenheit are possible on the heater’s emitter.

It goes without saying, keeping children and pets away from hot surfaces is important. Adults need to be reminded as well. Fortunately, a patio heater’s height keeps the dome and burner area out of reach for many children. Even so, adults and children should be warned about the hazard of touching that part of the heater. Protect yourself as well by not moving the heater while it is in operation. Certainly take care not ever to leave the heater burning and unattended.

Quality made patio heaters are equipped with automatic shut-off switches that turn them off should they tilt. That will not eliminate every undesirable thing that could happen should the unit topple. To really be safe, do not use the heater if winds exceed 10 mph. Also, make sure the unit is sitting on a hard, level and stable surface.

To our original question, yes, outdoor propane patio heaters are safe. Their fundamental safety, as well as that of propane use, have been greatly enhanced by higher industry standards and more stringent regulations. The unknown factor is the individual using the heater and his/her safety consciousness. If that is you and you have read this far, it is a good bet that you will safely enjoy your patio heater for years to come.

Chris Basher is recognized as an authority on outdoor patio heaters , fire pits, outdoor patio fireplaces, and other backyard products. He is the owner of www.FirePitNow.com, a unique Internet place to find these and similar products. For other helpful, complimentary information regarding outdoor patio heaters and similar products, take a moment to check out his website.

categories: outdoor propane patio heaters,outdoor LP patio heaters,propane patio heaters,LP patio heaters,patio heaters,outside heaters,outdoor heaters,heaters,appliances,entertaining,socializing,backyard development,heating devices