Try This Portable Patio Heater Relighting Checklist Before Ordering Replacement Parts

As homeowners and business owners increasingly rely on patio heaters to extend their outdoor seasons, it's quite common for some heaters to stop lighting. Often, this isn't due to a fault in the heater itself. Many times, these heaters have been sitting unused for months, and now you're trying to bring warmth back to your outdoor spaces instead of retreating indoors.

At AEI Corp, we hear the familiar complaint "my A270 heater won't light" every year. While it's true that even the best LP heaters may occasionally need repairs, in most cases, getting commercial or residential infrared heaters working again just requires following a systematic approach. That's why we've put together this handy guide for starting up patio heaters for restaurants, hospitality businesses, and backyard patios.

Steps to Take Before Calling for Service

It's understandable to feel anxious when your patio heater fails to light. Whether you're planning an outdoor gathering or simply want to keep warm while enjoying your favorite meal, the sudden failure of your heater can be frustrating. Before reaching out for help, let's walk through a checklist of basic troubleshooting steps that might resolve the issue.

Is There Enough Propane in the Tank?

Most portable LP heaters store the tank within the base, especially those with a classic "mushroom" design. Disconnect the tank and check if it contains propane. A full tank typically weighs around 40 pounds. You may need to refill it at a nearby gas station, supermarket, or another convenient location.

Is the Tank Turned On?

It's surprisingly easy to forget which way the knob needs to be turned to activate the heater, especially if the control is hidden. Try turning it one way and then the other. Don't worry—everyone makes this mistake!

Can You Smell Gas?

Over time, hoses can dry out when heaters are unused, leading to leaks. Apply soapy water to the hose and watch for bubbles. If you notice any, order a new hose and replace the old one before attempting to relight the heater.

Has the Gas Line Been Properly Purged?

Sometimes air accumulates in the fuel lines, making lighting difficult. Depress the control knob in the pilot position for about 90 seconds to purge the line. It’s a good idea to have a fresh LP tank connected during this process to ensure success.

Is the Control Knob Set Correctly?

The control knob must be pressed down by approximately ¼ inch and set to the pilot position. Any deviation will prevent the heater from lighting.

Is the Electronic Igniter Working?

One overlooked detail is checking the AA batteries. Even unused batteries can lose charge over time. Try replacing them with new ones.

Can You See a Pilot Flame?

If the pilot flame doesn't stay lit after releasing the control knob, there may be a fuel issue, such as a leaky line or an empty tank. Inspect the lines and tanks carefully.

Once you achieve a steady pilot flame, turn the control knob to the "ON" position. The burner flame should appear blue-orange. A yellow or reddish flame suggests a blockage, which may require professional repair.

Next Steps If the Heater Still Won't Light

After running through the checklist and addressing potential issues, it's worth taking a moment to reassess. Many people feel rushed or anxious during troubleshooting, so pausing to double-check each step carefully can make a difference. If you've done this and your heater still doesn't light or operates poorly, you may need to replace certain parts.

• Fuel Tank: If the tank feels empty despite recent refills, consider purchasing a new one. Having a spare propane tank on hand is always wise, as they are readily available at gas stations and grocery stores.
• Gas Leak: If you detect a gas smell when the knob is open, you may need a new fuel regulator or hose. Hoses are prone to cracking over time and are frequently replaced in patio heaters.
• Electronic Ignition: If new batteries don’t solve the problem, it might be time to replace the ignition system. Always test multiple batteries before buying a new part.
• Irregular Flame: A yellow or red flame indicates incomplete combustion, possibly caused by a blocked burner, regulator, or hose. Addressing this early can prevent downtime later.

For both residential and commercial patio heaters, proper storage during the off-season is key. Extreme heat and sunlight can dry out hoses, which are among the most commonly replaced parts. When storing your heater, disconnect the LP tank and cover it to protect against pests. Proper care can save you time, hassle, and repair costs.

When to Call for Professional Help

If you've exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and your heater still won't light, it's time to contact the manufacturer. A customer service representative can offer guidance and may walk you through additional diagnostics over the phone. This conversation might reveal specific problems and suggest the next steps.

In some cases, replacing parts like hoses is straightforward enough for a homeowner to handle. Alternatively, you can hire someone with heating expertise to assist. In other situations, a full-service technician can visit to repair your heater and help you enjoy your outdoor space longer.