How to Make Your Propane Patio Gas Less of an Eyesore
Propane patio heaters offer an efficient solution for outdoor heating. They are easy to operate, and do not require a gas line as gas heaters do.
Sometimes, it is known as Calor patio gas , this fuel is stored in green cylinders and is ideal for BBQ's and outdoor heating appliances. It is compatible with a 27mm clip-on regulator.
Safety
Propane is a highly flammable gas, could pose a danger to safety if not stored and utilized properly. Propane is a petroleum-based byproduct. It must be stored in tanks or cylinders with an air pressure regulator and leak-proof seals. A propane patio heater that has a pilot that is connected to the gas bottle via a regulator is designed to ensure safe operation. However, there are times when a issue can arise. It is important to take certain safety precautions until a professional can assess the problem and repair it.
The first step is to search for signs of a leak. This can include rotten egg or smell of skunk, a hissing sound coming from your tank, and a burning odor. If you notice any of these signs, shut off the valve on your tank, then leave the area immediately and call 911 and your local fire department. Contact your propane retailer and report the problem.
Then, check your propane tank and its connections to see if there is any corrosion or rust that could lead to a leak. Check that the connections to the hose are secure and not damaged, and also clean the vapor vents to ensure they are free of any debris. A faulty or damaged connection within the tank could cause a potentially dangerous propane leak.
It is also important to ensure that your propane appliances, including the patio heaters, examined on a regular basis. A propane specialist can check the connections and hoses to look for leaks, damage, or other problems which could increase the risk of leakage or fire.
One last thing to be aware of regarding propane patio heaters is that you should not attempt to ignite the pilot light that has been shut off. This can be very dangerous especially if there's an issue with the thermocouple or other safety components that stop the pilot from lighting. In these cases it is recommended to leave the pilot light off and call an expert in propane at your home to investigate the issue.
Storage
Propane patios are a reliable and flexible heating option for any outdoor space. The huge propane tanks can be an eyesore and aren't always a good fit with the backyard or garden. There are a variety of ways you can disguise a propane tank and make them less of a nuisance at your home.
Planting screening plants around a propane tank is a good method of concealing it. Planting dense shrubs and bushes like photinia and juniper is a go od choice, because they grow quickly and can camouflage the propane tank. If you plant the screens on three sides of the tank, they will provide effective cover while leaving easy access for maintenance and filling.
Another method of hiding the propane tank is to put it behind an enclosure. This could be an elevated fence or a low wall, or even a garden bed. Just make sure that you leave access to the tank for servicing and filling, as the propane tank that is locked or fenced in tank could be risky.
Some individuals also prefer to store their propane tank in the ground to keep it from being visible. This is a solution that is ideal in the event that your propane tank is located in an out-of-the-way location, but it can be more difficult to monitor and maintain as needed. In addition, an underground propane tank may lose pressure as the temperature fluctuates, so it is important to be on top of annual maintenance services.
If you plan to use propane for cooking in the indoors or as portable heaters, you need to know that there are different kinds of propane cylinders that are available. Green cylinders for patio gas is used to power outdoor gas heaters and comes with an adjustable clip-on. Propane in blue cylinders is more suitable for camping and single burner cooking appliances as well as commercial heat and power generation.
Propane cylinders should be connected to the correct regulator to dispense correctly. It's important that you don't switch between different kinds of cylinders without swapping out the regulator. This could lead to your propane gas stinking like rotten eggs, or skunk spray as well as not being able to be used in the appliance you choose to use it.
Bottles
LPG gas bottles are a common sight for the majority of us whether we are heading to the pub for a barbecue, cooking in the caravan, or simply heating our homes with a fireplace. Bottled gas is available in a wide range of sizes and shapes based on your needs. The majority of appliances are fitted with a regulator to reduce the pressure of the gas cylinder's contents. These regulators can be either clip-on or screw on and this will depend on the type of cylinder you are using.
Patio gas (propane) is stored in cylinders that are green and is usually supplied for barbecues or patio heaters. It is compatible with a 27mm clip-on regulator. Patio gas is also used to power camping or single-burner cooking appliances in static or touring caravans. It is perfect for domestic use at home and light commercial uses like blowtorches. It is available in bottles of up to 13kg in weight and includes an Gas Trac indicator so you can easily determine when the gas is low.
Butane is stored in blue cylinders and is used to heat caravans and mobile heaters during winter. This is a fantastic option for those who wish to heat their home, or an outdoor area, but don't have the space for large tanks of LPG. It is also popular with commercial users who need to operate ovens, tools or forklift trucks and is available in bottles ranging from to 47kg in size.
Both propane and butane are flammable hydrocarbon gases that come from natural gas refining and gas processing which is liquified via pressurisation. Propane has lower boiling points of -42degC, which makes it suitable for use outdoors in the U.K where temperatures are colder, butane has a higher boiling point and is often employed indoors.
The majority of leisure appliances come with regulator valves that lower the pressure in the cylinder, which decreases the gas pressure that is supplied to the appliance. This is done to safeguard your appliance and ensure the security of the gas supply. The type of regulator you need will depend on the cylinder you're using and this is why it is important to know what you want to do with the bottle prior to buying it.
Regulators
Propane regulators regulate the pressure of propane gas as it moves from the propane bottle to the propane appliance. A first-stage regulator decreases the initial pressure of the container to 10 psi (0.70 bar), and then allows the gas to pass through a second-stage propane regulator that further reduces the gas pressure (to approximately 11 inches of water column, or WC). A gauge on a propane tank measures the pressure of the gas as it leaves the regulator.
Proper installation is essential to ensure safe operation. A qualified gas plumber with LP should always be employed for any propane installations within the home, such as barbecues, patio heaters and other outdoor appliances. These professionals can ensure the hoses are properly routed and installed, keeping them away from flammable materials and enclosed spaces such as garages.
The type of regulator needed will depend on the type of propane tank is being used. A restaurant that has high-demand appliances may need different equipment than a home owner who uses a propane grill in the summer. When buying a propane supply, a company can sit down and understand a customer's needs to supply the appropriate regulator for each individual application.

Regulators should be located away from direct sunlight and in a well-ventilated area. This will stop snow, ice and rain from blocking the regulator's vent and stopping the gas from flowing through the system. Regulators should be placed where they can be easily accessible for refilling and maintenance.
Leaking vents can indicate that a propane regulator is in need to be replaced. This could indicate that the diaphragm is damaged by a foreign object, or that there is a problem with corrosion in the spring area of the regulator. It is recommended to replace the regulator as soon as possible when it starts to leak.
Propane, a highly flammable gas, should never be exposed either to flames or high temperatures. It is also essential to keep propane appliances away from substances that ignite and maintain them in open areas which helps prevent fires and accidents. Additionally, if a propane appliance develops an unpleasant smell it's usually a sign of a leak and should be replaced as soon as possible.