Troubleshooting for a Natural Gas Garage Heater

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A natural gas garage heater is an energy-saving electrical appliance that is commonly found in residential spaces. Natural gas garage heaters are durable and last for many years. However, they might suffer from some minor problems due to sustained usage and neglectful handling. You easily execute some basic maintenance tasks without employing professional help. These troubleshooting tasks need basic tools and some basic information listed below:

Troubleshooting Toxic Fumes: Venting Natural Gas Garage Heater

Venting is vital because the gas-based heaters use natural gas as a fuel. Upon combustion, natural gas tends to leave a small amount of residue in the form of gases and vapors. Over a period of time, these take the form of debris and get impacted along with supply systems and plumbing installations of the natural gas garage heater. Venting the system ensures that such harmful residues are removed. If not eliminated, these toxic fumes can chemically corrode the surrounding surfaces such as the floors and walls.

Venting involves locating a point along the floor of the garage where a pipe can be connected to the outside. One end of the pipe is connected to the venting hole of the gas heater. You need to slide the other end of the venting pipe through the wall. This can be a bit laborious since you need to drill a hole in the wall. The connecting pipe needs to be secured with caulk and mortar. However, a venting pipe doesn’t need a replacement for years. Just ensure that you buy a galvanized venting pipe retailed with dedicated screws/holders having anti-corrosive treatment.

Troubleshooting Natural Gas Garage Heater Control Systems

Most natural gas garage heaters have an adjustable controller. This temperature regulating-device is repeatedly used to control the heating range of the heater. The knob can get misplaced or loosened. You need basic tools like a screwdriver to tighten the adjustable controller. However, if the controller shows signs of substantial surface damage, you need to replace it. This too is rather simple since controller knobs are sold in standard sizes by natural gas heater system retailers.

Similarly, adjust the pilot screw. You need to tighten or loosen the adjustment screw to ensure that the pilot light has a bluish-green hue at the top with a bluish flame in the center. A yellowish flame means a lack of air in the system.

Troubleshooting Natural Gas Garage Heater Surface Coating

Nearly all surfaces of natural gas garage heaters are painted or have some sort of treatment to secure them against moisture-seepage issues like corrosion. Ensure that this treatment is repaired before it gets worn-out. If you cannot decode the kind of coating used, simply paint the unit’s surface with metallic paint. You can enquire at the paint supply store about paints that are better suited for adhering to heated surfaces.

Troubleshooting Natural Gas Garage Heater Overloading

Your garage heater might be suffering from overload, causing increased power bills. This is applicable to natural gas garage heaters located in cold areas. Here, the water loses its heat rather quickly. Thus, you can wrap a thermal blanket around the tank for better insulation. This helps to augment the overall life of the natural gas garage heater by reducing its daily operational demands.

Troubleshooting Natural Gas Garage Sedimentation

Even if your home has a supply of clean water, you need to perform annual de-sedimentation. This is vital since trace amounts of minerals in the water get deposited along the inner surface of the tank. Sedimentation might choke the plumbing connections of the natural gas garage heater system. This task is rather simple. Just open the tank and clean it with a high-pressure garden hose.