On those cold winter nights, a patio heater is what you need to enjoy your time outdoors with family and friends. However, it can become frustrating when you try to turn on the heater but it doesn’t work.
ِOne of the common problems with patio heaters is that the gas isn’t flowing. This can prevent the heater from functioning properly. Don’t worry; we’ll tell you how to get it back up and running in no time.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what causes the gases to stop flowing in the heater and how to fix it.
Reasons the Gas Isn’t Flowing in the Patio Heater
Several reasons could cause the gas in a patio heater to stop flowing. Let’s discuss the most common reasons and the best ways of fixing them.
1 – Empty Propane Tank
Though this sounds pretty basic, your heater may be out of gas and you just didn’t notice.
Check the gas cylinder that supplies the heater to see if it’s empty and replace it with a new full one.
2 – Faulty Gas Regulator
The gas regulator is the part that controls the gas pressure. These regulators usually have knobs to control the gas pressure.
If the regulator is damaged or faulty, you won’t be able to control the pressure, even if you turn the knob, as the gas won’t flow through the hose.
The way to solve this is to replace the regulator with a new one, which you can buy at any hardware store or online.
3 – Clogged Hose
The hose connects the gas tank to the heater and supplies it with the gas. If it’s clogged, then no gas will reach the heater.
Some people disconnect the hose and blow through it to clear the path. With this method, you have to be very careful not to inhale any gas.
You can also flush the hose with some water to clear any dirt that’s stuck inside. Remember to turn off the heater first before disconnecting the hose for your safety.
Sometimes the hose gets bent, which prevents the gas flow. In this case, check the hose and try to straighten it until the flow returns.
If the hose is too damaged and worn out, you’ll need to replace it.
4 – Low Fuel Level
If the amount of gas in the propane tank is too low, it won’t flow through the hose. This happens especially if the temperature is too low (less than 40℉) and the tank is less than a quarter full.
In this case, you’ll notice a low flame when you light the heater, which is a result of the low gas pressure. Refill or replace the propane tank, and the pressure will return to normal.
5 – Unclean Burner
Another reason for a low flow of gas is an unclean burner. The burner is the part that produces heat and flame, and it collects dust over time. This prevents the gas from reaching the burner and producing a strong flame.
To solve this, you’ll need to clean the burner from any dust and debris.
First, remove the emitter screen that covers the burner using a screwdriver so you can see what’s inside. Then, use compressed air to blow off any dust inside the burner. You can also use a brush to brush off the dirt and a dry cloth to wipe any dirt.
Clean the screen as well using the dry cloth, you can also use cotton swabs to clean the small holes, and then reattach it.
If your burner is too rusty or damaged, it might be time to replace it. Make sure you buy the same model and size as the one you had before.
6 – Unclean Pilot
The pilot is the flame that ignites the gas in the burner to provide heat. There’s a small hole that allows gas in the pilot’s orifice.
This hole can become clogged with dirt or debris, which will stop the gas flow resulting in a weak flame.
To fix this problem, you’ll need an air compressor or a computer duster. Start by removing the emitter screen.
Now you should be able to see the pilot, which is next to the main burner. Point the air compressor or computer duster into the pilot and blow air inside it.
Doing this will clear out any debris inside the small pilot hole. While the emitter screen is still removed, test the heater to see if it’s producing a strong flame. When you’re done, reattach the emitter screen.
Final Thoughts
With the tips provided in this guide, you can fix any issues in your patio heater and return the gas flow to normal. You’ll need to check the propane tank, gas regulator, hose, burner, and pilot.
If you find that a part is too damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Most heater parts are available at hardware stores.
Maintaining your patio heater will ensure a better and long-lasting performance so that you can enjoy its warmth in the cold season.
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
--
If you want more backyard tips including recipes, how-tos and more, make sure you subscribe to my youtube channel