Natural gas (NG) patio heaters offer continuous warmth for outdoor spaces with lower refills and steady fuel flow. Below is a quick comparison of selected NG patio heaters and conversion kits to help identify the right option for your setup.
| Product | Type | Key Feature | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bromic Smart-Heat Platinum 500 | Mounted Radiant Heater | Infrared ceramic burner, wind resistant | Bromic Heating |
| Fire Sense Natural Gas Patio Heater | Freestanding Heater | 45,000 BTU, electronic ignition | Fire Sense |
| 12FT 3/8″ Natural Gas Hose Kit | Conversion/ Hose | Multiple brass adapters, CSA certified | GardenNow |
| 1/2 Inch 48Ft Natural Gas Hose | Long Hose | Large diameter, CSA certified | Larrik |
| 48Ft 1/2-Inch ID Natural Gas Hose | Long Hose | Quick-disconnect brass fittings | SUMNEW |
Bromic Smart-Heat Platinum 500 Radiant
This model is a mounted infrared radiant heater designed for upscale residential or commercial patios. The unit uses a tinted ceramic glass burner and brushed stainless steel housing for a contemporary look while focusing heat on people rather than air.
- Sleek Contemporary Styling: Brushed stainless steel and tinted ceramic glass finish intended for visible installations.
- Radiant Infrared Burner: Heats occupants directly, which can feel warmer at lower ambient temperatures compared to convective heaters.
- Wind Resistance: Rated to perform with wind up to about 12 mph, reducing heat loss in breezy conditions.
- Fuel Type: Natural gas connection suited for fixed installations—professional gas line integration recommended.
Performance notes: Infrared radiant designs provide immediate perceptible warmth and are efficient for zone heating. Installation typically involves mounting hardware and a permanent NG supply; verify local codes and permit requirements before installation.
Fire Sense Natural Gas Patio Heater 45,000 BTU
The Fire Sense unit is a freestanding stainless steel patio heater that connects to a natural gas line and delivers high output heat suitable for most residential patios and decks.
- High Output: 45,000 BTU output for broad coverage in typical outdoor seating areas.
- Electronic Ignition: Quick-start electronic ignition improves convenience over manual lighting.
- Tip-Over Protection: Built-in safety mechanism to shut off fuel if the unit tips.
- Durable Construction: Heavy-duty stainless steel burner and double mantle heating grid intended for outdoor use.
Practical considerations: Freestanding NG heaters require a nearby natural gas supply or a conversion hose to connect to the household NG line. Anchoring and location clearance are important to maintain safe operation and tip-over protection effectiveness.
GardenNow 12FT 3/8″ Natural Gas Hose Kit
This 12-foot kit targets conversions and short-run connections for grills, patio heaters, and small NG appliances. It emphasizes flexibility with multiple adapters and CSA certification.
- Adapter Variety: Includes five different couplings to match common fitting sizes (3/8″ NPT, 1/2″ female, 3/8″ flare, etc.).
- Material Quality: Solid brass fittings and high-quality rubber hose for flexibility and heat resistance.
- Low Pressure Use: Designed for low-pressure NG systems (~11″ WC, 1/2 PSI) typical of residential lines.
- Certification: CSA certification listed for assurance of construction and safety standards.
Application notes: This kit is suited for portable heater setups or temporary connections where a short hose run is adequate. Ensure fitting compatibility and confirm thread types before installation to prevent leaks.
Larrik 1/2 Inch 48Ft Natural Gas Hose
The Larrik hose offers a long run for connecting distant appliances to an NG source. Its 1/2″ diameter supports higher BTU appliances and is geared toward installations needing extended reach.
- Larger Diameter: 1/2″ ID provides higher flow capacity compared to 3/8″ hoses, supporting grills and appliances with greater BTU requirements.
- Length: 48 feet for extended reach from the house line to a patio appliance.
- Leak Proof & CSA Certified: Claims CSA certification and includes leak-proof tape for connections.
- Quick Connect Fittings: Push-and-release connector for easy installation and removal.
Usage guidance: For high-BTU heaters or multiple appliances on the same line, larger diameter hoses maintain pressure and flow. Long hoses can add pressure drop; confirm the aggregate BTU demand and pressure with manufacturer specs or a technician.
SUMNEW 48 Feet 1/2-Inch ID Natural Gas Hose
This SUMNEW hose aims to balance durability and convenience with quick-disconnect brass fittings and flexible rubber construction. It’s suitable for grills, patio heaters, and other NG appliances that require a longer feed.
- High-Quality Materials: Rubber hose with solid brass connectors for corrosion resistance and flexibility.
- Wide Compatibility: Marketed for Weber, Charbroil, and similar appliances; intended for general NG appliance connections.
- Quick-Disconnect Fittings: Facilitates frequent attachment/removal without tools.
- CSA Compliance: Certification for manufacturing and safety standards is stated.
Considerations: Quick-disconnects are convenient for seasonal setups but require compatible fittings on the appliance or an adapter. Long runs should be measured to ensure acceptable pressure drop for the appliance’s BTU rating.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Natural Gas Patio Heater Or Hose
This buying guide covers essential factors to evaluate when selecting a natural gas patio heater or conversion/connection kit. Consider all perspectives—performance, installation, safety, and compatibility—before purchasing.
Heat Output And Coverage
BTU rating directly affects coverage area. Freestanding heaters often range from ~40,000–50,000 BTU for residential use, which suits small to medium patios. Mounted infrared models use radiant heat to warm people directly and can feel more efficient in windy conditions.
Heater Type: Radiant vs Convective
Radiant infrared heaters (like Bromic) heat objects and people and are effective in semi-exposed areas. Convective or open-flame heaters rely on hot air and may be less effective in wind. Choose radiant for focused warmth and convective for ambient heating when winds are low.
Power Source And Fuel Delivery
Natural gas units require a reliable NG supply. For freestanding heaters, conversion hoses provide flexibility to connect portable units to a permanent NG line. Hose diameter and length influence flow; larger diameter (1/2″ or more) is better for higher BTU appliances and long runs.
Hose Diameter And Length
- 3/8″ ID: Common for small appliances and short runs; suitable for lower-BTU setups.
- 1/2″ ID: Higher flow capacity; recommended for long runs and higher BTU requirements.
- Length Effects: Longer hoses increase pressure drop; verify combined BTU loads and consider a larger diameter or shorter routing to maintain performance.
Fittings, Adapters, And Compatibility
Thread types (NPT, flare, quick-connect) vary across brands. Kits with multiple adapters increase compatibility with different heater models. Always match thread sizes and types and use appropriate sealing tape or compound for gas connections.
Certifications And Safety Features
Look for CSA, UL, or equivalent certifications for hoses and components. For heaters, features like electronic ignition, tip-over shutoff, and durable construction materials (stainless steel, weather-resistant finishes) enhance safety and lifespan.
Installation And Local Codes
Permanent NG hookups, mounted heaters, and long hose installations may require a licensed technician and local permits. Confirm local codes for outdoor gas appliances, clearances to combustibles, and anchoring requirements for freestanding units.
Durability And Weather Resistance
Outdoor heating equipment should resist corrosion and UV exposure. Stainless steel housings, brass fittings, and weather-rated hose materials are preferable for long-term installations in variable climates.
Maintenance And Replacement Parts
Consider availability of replacement parts such as glass tubes, ceramic burners, and hoses. Units with modular components simplify repairs. Regular inspections for leaks, wear, and ignition reliability are important for safe operation.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance vs. Aesthetics: High-end mounted radiant heaters prioritize style and directed warmth, while freestanding units offer mobility.
- Convenience vs. Permanence: Quick-disconnect hoses provide seasonal flexibility; permanent NG lines with fixed heaters offer seamless operation but require professional installation.
- Cost of Ownership: Natural gas typically reduces ongoing refills compared to propane tanks, but installation costs and permits impact upfront expense.
Final tips: Verify BTU needs, hose sizing, and fitting compatibility with your heater model. When in doubt about gas connections or pressure losses over long runs, consult a licensed gas technician to confirm safety and optimal performance.