How to care and prolong the life of gas

patio heaters

Patio heaters can be manufactured in stainless steel, hammered or powder coated finish with either a steel plated burner, chrome burner or a stainless steel burner.

For stainless steel patio heaters use a stainless steel cleaner to remove water/rain marks and any other marks. More stubborn marks on a heater finished in brushed stainless steel finish can be removed by lightly using a nylon scourer or brush making sure it's applied in the same direction as the brushed stainless steel effect - on highly polished stainless steel heaters never use a scourer. Avoid placing patio heaters directly under a tree and never place on a slope. Good quality stainless steel patio heaters will come to no harm left outside, care is needed when storms or gale force winds are forecast. To protect against storm damage remove the reflector and cover or move to a sheltered spot.

Powder coated patio heaters will benefit from light cleaning using a soapy detergent and washing with clean water. Remember to oil wheel joints and all moving parts including the gas control valve. Check for any wear and tighten any loose bolts.

Budget patio heaters are generally fitted with steel plated or chrome burners, these will suffer rust within a year and are not generally serviceable. All BFX models of patio heaters in domestic and commercial are fitted with stainless steel burners. Should you find you have a budget chrome/plated burner then avoid leaving out in the winter months and if using a full length cover avoid moisture within the cover.

Periodically check the LPG hose for wear and tear and if in doubt order a replacement LPG hose and clips. The LGP gas cylinder must be in good condition with no sign of damage, i.e. dents or rust. Check the valve is a good connection to the LPG regulator. If your LPG gas cylinder is in poor condition return it to your local LPG depot and exchange for a replacement cylinder.

To store a patio heater over winter remove the reflector by removing the wing nuts holding the reflector. Lift the reflector off and store in a safe place. With the reflector removed the patio heater's foot print is reduced to 46cm to allow for easy storage in a garage or garden shed. Always place a protective cover on a patio heater when storing to keep dust/bugs away from the burner. An old blanket/sheet will do the trick. Never store a propane gas cylinder indoors or below ground level.

If stored over winter check patio heaters before lighting with a leakage test and look for any signs of wear and tear on patio heaters.

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