Patio Heater Care and Maintenance

Just like any other home appliance, your patio heater requires regular care and maintenance to keep it working correctly

and safely. When a patio heater is covered in storage, it becomes a favorite hiding place for insects and can gather dust and

debris, which can affect the pilot light and the burner. Dry storage areas can also cause rubber hosing to become brittle, and improperly stored heaters may be prone to rust and tarnishing. Taking a few steps before using your patio heater for the first time after storage will ensure that you have warmth and ambiance all season long.

To check for blockages or debris, dismantle the patio heater by disconnecting the gas line and removing the cover according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, covers are attached with screws or nuts and bolts and removal is a simple process. At the back of the burner, there are usually two small silver tubes called venturi tubes. You can clean debris from these with pipe cleaners.

To clean your patio heater, use a mixture of soap and water and a non abrasive scouring pad to clean the inside and outside of

the emitter. You should avoid getting the burner wet and use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a Q-tip or soft cloth

to clean away built up grease or residue.

To reassemble your patio heater, reattach every component in reverse order. If you are uncertain or inexperienced with gas lines, it is safer to call a professional. And always consult the operating manual for your model of outdoor patio heater, as different types of heaters may require different disassembly, cleaning and maintenance instructions.

At Backyard & Pool Superstore, we carry patio heaters that are built to last, but like any appliance, improper use or accidental damage happens. If your outdoor patio heater is damaged or not performing optimally, replace or repair the parts immediately to avoid bigger problems later on.

Some parts that are at risk of damage include the pilot light, reflectors and emitters. During regular maintenance, check that all components are functioning correctly or call a technician to perform an assessment.