Do Tank Top Patio Heaters Work?

Yes, tank-top patio heaters or propane tank-top heaters work fine as other patio heaters. It mainly depends on the BTU and heat output. While the general standing patio heaters spread heat in a radiation method around the space, the tank top heaters spread heat in one direction due to the facing. However, some tank top heaters have 360° heat radiation due to multiple facing of burners.

Working Principle of a Tank Top Outdoor Heater

A propane tank top outdoor heater’s working principle is quite simple. The focus is propane direct-fired. Direct-fired means that all the byproducts of the heater’s combustion go into the heated room. And a tank top heater is best for instant heating, compared to other heaters.

Here is a working mechanism detail of the tank-top patio heater:

Fuel Connection:

A hose directly connects the tank patio heater to the propane tank. The hose maintains the propane flow. The tank has a regulator on the mouth of the connection for controlling propane flow.

Heater:

The heater is always balanced over a stand with a mounted bolt knob. There can be single or multiple burners up to four in the tank-top patio heater. Each burner has a heat production system, like standing propane heaters. Every burner comprises an ignition hole, a front guard, a rear guard, and a heat reflector.

The heating source burner will burn the liquid gas to make heat, just like a gas patio heater. Then, with the help of the reflectors, the heat will be spread out. This kind of heater does not either throw or blow hot air. The radiation around 360 degrees is carried out if the burners are faced in different directions or if the burner is circular shaped. A single-directional burner will blow heat in one way.

Safety shut-off:

Most tank-top patio heaters have safety shut-off valves in the burners. So if you smell gas leaks, you can press it, and it will shut off. And some burners have an auto safety shut-off system, which is excellent.

Residual production:

Tank-top patio heaters produce carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide can kill you. People can only handle small amounts of carbon monoxide, so steps should be taken to ensure enough airflow.

N.B: You can find out the best propane patio heaters of this year here.

How Much do BTU Tank Top Patio Heaters Provide?

Though it seems tank-top patio heaters provide a low amount of heat, surprisingly, they provide from 40,000 BTU to up to 1,00,000 BTU. This is not only surprising, but the tank top patio heaters can also alter the number of burners. Usually, propane tank top patio heaters are fully portable, making them ideal for adventure, camping, backyard usage, etc.

You can change and adjust the number of burners you want for the tank-top type. For example, if you have only two people to warm up, you can burn in one or two burners. However, if there is a guest, you can use four altogether. Using more burners will increase the BTU, and you would have to refill the fuel quickly. But, it is excellent that you can save gas usage when unnecessary.

Can a Tank Top Patio Heater Blow Over in Windy Weather?

If the wind speed is above ten miles per hour, the heater may blow over, but the interesting factor about tank-top heaters is that it has stability, unlike other standing propane patio heaters. Tall patio heaters tend to tip over at a high wind speed, but due to the cylinder gravity and low seating, the tank-top patio heater does not tip over, even if there is a high wind. But, the performance will get affected if the wind rises.

Most manufacturers suggest not using a tank top patio heater under windy weather, as the vast wind may not only obstruct it from exemplary operation but also bring debris and dust inside the burner, which may cause it to malfunction or fire hazards.

Do Tank Top Patio Heaters Work in Snow Fall?

No, the tank-top patio heater will not work under rain or snowfall. Unlike tall patio heaters, tank top burners stay naked without any hood or covering above the burner. So it is impossible to work. Instead, Excessive water can get inside and decrease the product’s lifespan, resulting in malfunctioning, rusting, and other problems.

When not used, a water-resistant cloth cover can protect your patio heater from getting wet in sudden showers or snow. Another option is to store it inside. Then, when you have finished using the heater, let it cool for half an hour, and you can detach it from the fuel connection safely and store it indoors for better protection.

8 Safety tips while using tank-top patio heaters

A tank-top patio heater is excellent for outdoor activities, camping, and other portable performance; however, it is not as sturdy as other heaters for less protective features. The main thing is always to follow and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. So, you should be careful and maintain safety precautions while using a tank-top patio heater.

Never store or use gasoline or other liquids and gases that can catch fire near the heater. For example, do not put a propane cylinder nearby if you are not using it. Also, it would be better to avoid changing the fuel type without consulting the manufacturer.
Ensure enough ventilation while operating the tank-top heater. Never use an outdoor tank-top heater under the tent, under a covered porch, or indoors.
Make sure you do not leave the tank-top heater under rain or snow.
Always cover the tank-top patio heater with a waterproof cloth or cover.
Do not move this type of heater while operating or running. Prevent small children and pets from getting near. However, avoiding a tank-top patio heater is better if you have small children, pets, or sick adults.
Regularly check and clean the hose and gas connection. Ensure there is no leak in the gas connection
Always keep sand, fire extinguishers, and water nearby for better safety.
Maintain safety distance from the heater, never sit too close or put flammable items near it.