Power levels are helpful when comparing the heating capability of one patio heater against others. There are three different Power Levels applied to patio heaters, based on their heat output. The Regular Power Level is applied to a patio heater that produces between 10,000 and 20,000 BTUs. A High Power Level describes a propane patio heater that produces between 21,000 and 39,000 BTUs. Extremely large units capable of putting out 40,000 to 50,000 BTUs are given the highest classification of Turbo Power Level.
What is a BTU? The letters stand for British Thermal Unit, and it is a unit of energy. One BTU is the heat needed to raise one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. It has long been the standard unit for rating heating devices of all manners in America. So, the higher number of BTUs you have at your disposal, the more powerful patio heater you have.
What is the difference between a 20 volt and 40 volt transformer?
The model of Sunpak ceiling patio heater we sell have an electrical requirement of 20 VA. The "VA" stands for Voltage Amperage, commonly known as "Amps." We offer the Sunpak heaters with the option of a 20 volt transformer, 40 volt transformer, or no transformer.
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A 24-20VA transformer provides 24 Volts at 20 Amps and powers one Sunpak heater. A 24-40VA transformer offers 24 Volts at 40 Amps and can power two Sunpak heaters. You get the best performance from your ceiling patio heater by using one transformer to power only one heat. If you do wire two units to one transformer, make sure each heater receives at least 20 Amps. Never wire more than two heaters to one transformer.
What is the difference between a DSI (Direct Spark Ignition), a Piezo starter, and an Electronic ignition?
There are different ways to light your patio heater, and it depends on the model you have. A Direct Spark Ignition uses an electric spark to light a pilot light. This type of ignition is usually found in simple base models of heaters. The button creating the spark normally uses one AA battery. Once the pilot is lit, the control knob can be turned to the "On" position to light the main burner.
If you bought a more advanced patio heater, chances are it uses what is called a "piezo" lighter. They are commonly found on grills, lanterns and other gas appliances. A quartz crystal is used to produce a spark that lights the pilot light on the heater. Its advantage is that it lights quicker and more dependably that a DSI ignition.
The most advanced system is an electronic ignition head. Throughout the industry, these heads are known as "E" heads, and are built with a 24 Volt circuit board. There is no pilot light to contend with. Usually wired right into your home, lighting is as easy as turning on a switch from the inside. You can rest easy knowing the patio heater is either completely on or completely off. This system is only applicable to permanent units.
What is infra-red heat?
Infra-red heat is the type of heat that comes from combustion, such as heat emitted from the sun or from a fire. Unlike the sun, your infra-red patio heater will not emit harmful UV rays. Gas-fired patio heaters are considered to use infra-red heat because they ignite gas. Blowing heaters or a heaters using electrical coils are NOT infra-red because they are not using combustibles.
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What do I need to consider when installing and mounting a patio heater?
Before you install a portable or permanent gas fired infra-red patio heater, review your local building and city codes. Also, take careful consideration when selecting a space to install the unit.
When installing a ceiling patio heater, do not put the gas supply line or electrical power cord directly above or on top of the heater. Install the heater in a location for readily accessible servicing. Make sure there are no restrictions to air flow and the any air intake holes are uncovered.
Installation must conform to local codes or the ruling authority having jurisdiction over the area of installation. In the absence of local codes, installation in the United States must conform to Code ANSI Z223.1-1984 entitled, "National Fuel Gas Code." For installation in Canada, check the governing local jurisdiction codes. If there are none, refer to the document National Standard of Canada CAN/CGA-B 149.1&2-M86.
When mounting, ensure that the patio heater clears a safe distance from combustibles. Combustible material are considered to be wood, paper, compressed paper, plant fibers, plastic, Plexiglass, or other materials capable of being ignited or burned. Even if they have been treated to be flame proof, flame-retardant or plastered, these materials still have proper clearance. Additional clearance may be needed for glass or painted surfaces that may be damaged by radiant or rising heat.
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Minimum clearance for a permanent patio heater
The typical permanent patio heater offers between 40,000 and 50,000 BTUs. The following describes basic clearance guides at a glance.
For most permanent heaters, typical clearance of combustibles are these: Above the top of the unit: 16 inches; Measuring from the side of the reflector shield: 30 inches; Below the reflector shield: 30 inches. Use these as a guide only. Consult your owner's manual and city codes for additional details.
Minimum clearance for a portable patio heater
The heat output of portable patio heaters can vary greatly, and so will the minimum clearance to safely operate them. The following is only a basic guide to quickly assist you. Consult your owner manual thoroughly before installing your portable patio heater.
For portable patio heater units between 35,000 and 50,000 BTUs, provide at least 30 inches of clearance above and on all sides of the reflector and emitter head from combustible materials. Do not have anything combustible closer than 36 inches directly under the emitter head.
Smaller units from 10,000 to 35,000 BTUs need at least 24 inches of clearance above and on all sides of the reflector and emitter head. Do not have anything combustible directly under the heat closer than 30 inches of a lower powered portable patio heater.
Minimum clearance for a ceiling patio heater
When installing your ceiling patio heater, you need to make sure that appropriate clearance is given from combustible materials of your structure. These materials include wood, plant fibers, paint, pressed paper, and other surfaces that may ignite. Proper clearance also enables the unit to perform at its best with unobstructed airflow.
The ceiling patio heater you buy from us will be between 25,000 and 34,000 BTUs. In general, this heat output requires at least 24 inches clearance above and on each side of the unit. Please fully consult your owner manual for a full description of appropriate clearances and installation procedures.
What are the ventilation requirements for my heater
Using a patio heater outdoors usually provides enough ventilation. If using a patio heater that uses a tank for its fuel supply, make sure the tank covering has at least a small opening to let air move through. Before you install a patio heater indoors, make sure the building has proper mechanical ventilation, such as an electric fan or an installed HVAC system. Additionally, there should be fresh air introduced regularly to the environment.
Trouble-shooting your patio heater
These problems below can be common occurrences in a patio heater, and we have listed possible reasons and solutions for each. Consult your patio heater owner manual for additional detail. Never perform any servicing to your patio heater not in accordance with the requirements as stated by your owner's manual. When in doubt, always consult a reputable local service agent.
Pilot won't light:
- No gas to burner; Refill fuel tank and purge line
- Low gas pressure; Refill fuel tank and purge line
- Gas supply turned off; Turn gas on
- LP cylinder turned off or empty; Refill fuel tank and turn on
- Blockage in gas line; Remove line and blow out obstruction
- Ignition is not sparking; Light pilot manually to dry out or replace igniter or piezo
Pilot won't stay lit:
- Defective thermopile; Replace thermopile
- Defective gas valve; Replace gas valve
- Dirty Pilot; Clean pilot
Main burner won't light:
- No 24 Volt power to unit; Check and replace faulty wiring or transformer
- Low gas pressure; Check regulators
- Blockage in orifice; Remove and clean orifice
- Manual valve not in "on" position; Turn valve to "on" position
Easy patio heater gas line testing procedure
Periodically during the year, testing your patio heater for gas leaks is important, especially at the beginning of the season of heavy use. Always test the gas line on your patio heater if has been stored or out of use for a long time. This simple test is east to do and assists with safe operation.
First, prepare a cup of soapy water.
Next, securely attach the regulator to your LP tank or gas line. If you use a tank, remove the tank from the canister of the patio heater.
Then, open the valve of the LP tank or turn the main gas valve of the patio heater to "On." Leave the heater valve in the "Off" position. Liberally apply the soapy water with a sponge or brush to all fittings and connections. Closely inspect all the brushed soapy areas for blowing bubbles. The bubbles indicate a gas leak.
Repair any and all leaks by tightening or replacing lines, hoses, fittings, and connections. Once the leaks have been repaired, the patio heater is ready fro use. Do not deviate from the manufacturer-authorized way of testing, repairing, and servicing.
As always, use common sense, and never use an open flame to discover leaks. If there is one, you will soon discover using open flame was a poor decision.
Care and use of propane tanks
If your portable patio heater uses a propane tank for fuel, please remember to follow these quick guidelines. Also see your owner manual for additional details.
The fuel tank is always under pressure, so use care in handling it at all times. Consult your local seller of propane to show you proper safety precautions, and to inform you of local codes regarding handling and usage.
Below is a quick guide to help you:
- Always store the tank upright
- Keep the tank out of extreme and excessive heat
- Avoid damaging the tank valves; handle with care
- Store outdoors in a cool, dark place with proper air circulation
- Do not subject the tank to abuse
Always follow manufacturer instructions when using, handling, filling, and transporting your propane tank.
When finished using the portable patio heater, shut off the gas supply from the tank. Make sure the tank is equipped with a pressure regulator and thoroughly visually inspect all hoses and connections of the patio heater and tank before each use. Never overfill you tank with propane fuel.
Fire Sprinkler Consideration
When using a ceiling mounted patio heater, permanent or portable patio heater, it is important to consider the layout of any built-in or added fire sprinklers for proper integration. Fire sprinkler heads must be placed far enough away to not be activated by operation of the patio heater. You can further ensure that both the patio heater will not cause the sprinklers to operate by using sprinklers with a higher temperature setting.
DO NOT USE fire sprinkler heads or systems that employ Propylene Glycol, antifreeze solutions or other potentially flammable substances.
