Outdoor Propane Heater Safety Tips
The following are just a few outdoor propane heater safety tips to help keep you and your family safe this winter while using your heater:
Know Your Space
Outdoor propane heaters are great for outdoor use in well-ventilated areas.
Never use outdoor heaters to heat a room inside a home or building, as these can pose a carbon monoxide hazard when used without adequate ventilation.
Placement of the Patio Heater
Avoid placing your patio heater in a high-traffic area where children or pets can accidentally knock it over, potentially causing injury to both person and unit. Also, never leave your outdoor propane heater running unattended, particularly when children or pets are present.
Make sure to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Certain materials may become a fire hazard if the heater is too close. Outdoor propane heaters should never be placed near combustible materials, plants and grass (including potted or planters), fabrics and cloth, gas tanks, lighter fluid, etc.
Secure and Brace Your Unit
Outdoor propane heaters typically have an anti-tip feature. However, it is a good idea to take extra precautions of securing and bracing the unit with stabilizers such as the following:
- weights
- fire-resistant fasteners
- sandbags
Outdoor Propane Heater Maintenance
When you are not using your propane heater, close the propane tank’s valve and turn the heater’s switch off. Make sure to routinely inspect all valves and hoses for leaks as well. You can easily check for air bubbles by applying soapy water to these areas then wiping dry afterward.
Additionally, don’t use the patio heater until any leak issues have been resolved. Store spare propane tanks away from heat or open flames.
Protect Your Propane Heater from the Elements
The majority of propane patio heaters have some weather-resistant coating. However, wind is your patio heater’s worst enemy. Domed heaters are particularly propane to wind, as the act as umbrellas and catch the wind.
Whenever possible, place your outdoor propane heater in non-windy areas. Not only will this be more comfortable for your guests, but it will help in fuel efficiency. This is because the unit won’t have to work as hard to defend against active winds.
Long-Term Storage
If you are storing your outdoor propane heater for long periods, keep in mind that dust, debris, insects and rodents can make their way into the unit and its components.
Consider storing your unit in areas that will discourage rust, tarnishing and environments that may lead to rubber hosing becoming brittle.
These are just a few outdoor propane heater safety tips. For more information on propane, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below!
