Top 10 Most Common Outdoor Heater Repair Questions Answered

Why won’t my outdoor heater ignite or turn on?

When an outdoor heater won’t ignite, it’s usually due to gas flow, ignition, or safety sensor issues. Start by making sure the gas supply is on and the tank (for propane) has fuel. Check that the regulator valve is open and the hose isn’t kinked. For electric heaters, confirm the outlet has power and any GFCI reset button isn’t tripped.

Clean the igniter and burner ports with a soft brush—debris or spider webs often block gas flow. If you hear clicking but see no flame, the igniter may be misaligned or worn out.

Call a professional if you smell gas, see damaged hoses, or the unit repeatedly fails after basic cleaning and reset attempts.

Why does my outdoor heater keep going out after a few minutes?

If your heater lights but shuts off quickly, the issue is often with the thermocouple, tilt switch, or airflow. The thermocouple senses the flame; if dirty, misaligned, or faulty, it will cut gas as a safety measure. Gently clean it and ensure it’s properly positioned in the flame.

Wind can also blow out the flame. Try shielding the heater or moving it to a less windy area. For propane heaters, check for frost on the tank—a very cold or nearly empty tank can cause low pressure.

Call a pro if replacing or adjusting the thermocouple doesn’t help, or if the gas control valve appears faulty.

Why is my outdoor heater not producing enough heat?

Weak heat output usually points to restricted gas flow, dirty burners, or low power. For gas heaters, verify the propane tank isn’t almost empty and that the regulator is fully open. Inspect the burner for rust, soot, or debris and clean the ports with compressed air or a soft brush.

For electric models, check that you’re using the correct voltage and circuit and that no extension cord is undersized (which can cause voltage drop 🔌). Using the heater in very open, windy areas will always feel cooler—try moving it closer to your seating zone.

If flames stay small even after cleaning and tank replacement, the regulator or gas valve may be failing and should be checked by a licensed technician.

Why does my outdoor heater smell like gas or fumes?

A slight odor at ignition can be normal for gas heaters, but persistent or strong gas smell is dangerous. First, turn the heater off immediately and close the gas supply. Never use an open flame to search for leaks. Instead, apply soapy water to hose connections and fittings; bubbling indicates a leak.

Common causes include loose fittings, cracked hoses, or a faulty regulator. For heaters that smell like burning dust or chemicals, check for leaves, insects, or debris on the burner and reflector, and clean thoroughly.

Call a professional and/or your gas supplier right away if:

• You detect a strong gas odor
• You find a leak in metal components
• The smell remains after cleaning and tightening connections

Safety first—do not use the heater again until it’s been inspected. ⚠️

Why does the flame on my outdoor heater look yellow or uneven?

A healthy gas heater flame is usually blue with small yellow tips. A mostly yellow, orange, or very uneven flame signals incomplete combustion, often due to dirty burners or improper air–gas mix. Turn off the heater and let it cool. Then:

1. Remove the burner cover if accessible.
2. Clean burner holes with a soft brush or compressed air.
3. Check for rust, debris, or insect nests blocking ports.

Some heaters have an air shutter; if it’s partially closed, it can cause a yellow, sooty flame. Adjust gently according to the owner’s manual.

If the burner is badly corroded or the flame remains unstable after cleaning, the burner assembly or regulator may need replacement—a job best handled by a pro.

Why won’t my outdoor heater’s pilot light stay lit?

When the pilot won’t stay lit, the thermocouple or pilot orifice is usually to blame. The thermocouple must sit directly in the pilot flame to generate enough voltage to keep the gas valve open.

Steps to try:

• Clean the pilot area (dust, rust, or spider webs can block the tiny flame).
• Ensure the thermocouple tip is centered in the flame.
• Press and hold the pilot button for the full time recommended (often 30–60 seconds).

If it still goes out, the thermocouple may be failing or the gas valve isn’t holding.

Call a technician if:

• The pilot goes out immediately after you release the button
• You see damaged wiring/tubing
• You’re uncomfortable working near gas components

Why is my electric outdoor heater not working at all?

If your electric outdoor heater is completely dead, start with power and safety checks:

1. Make sure it’s firmly plugged into a working outlet (test with another device).
2. Check your breaker panel and reset any tripped breaker.
3. Look for a GFCI outlet or plug and press the reset button.
4. Confirm any built-in safety switches (tilt switch, overheat protection) have reset by placing the heater upright on a flat surface and letting it cool.

If the indicator lights work but there’s no heat, the heating element or internal thermostat may have failed. Burnt smell, scorch marks, or melted plastic are serious warning signs.

Stop using the unit and contact a professional or the manufacturer if you suspect internal damage or if flipping breakers/GFCI doesn’t restore power.

Why does my outdoor heater make a clicking, roaring, or whistling noise?

Some noise is normal, but loud clicking, roaring, or whistling can indicate a problem:

• Clicking: Often the igniter or metal expanding as it heats. Constant rapid clicking can mean the igniter is stuck or misfiring.
• Roaring: Flame too high or too much gas flow. Turn the control knob down and see if it quiets.
• Whistling or humming: May result from gas pressure issues or a partially blocked orifice.

Try:

• Lowering the heat setting.
• Checking for loose parts or panels and tightening screws.
• Inspecting for obvious obstructions in the burner area.

If the noise starts after installing a new tank or regulator, the pressure may not match the heater’s rating. 📢 Call a licensed gas technician if sounds are accompanied by flame irregularities or burning smells.

Why does my outdoor heater shut off when I move or bump it?

Most modern outdoor heaters include a tilt or tip-over safety switch that cuts power or gas if the unit is moved or knocked. If yours shuts off from a slight bump or being wheeled a short distance, the switch may be overly sensitive or worn.

Troubleshooting steps:

• Verify the heater is on a level, stable surface.
• Gently check the base and pole for looseness and tighten bolts.
• Inspect accessible safety switches (following the manual) for obvious damage or corrosion.

Never bypass or tape down a safety switch—it’s there to prevent fires and gas leaks. If the heater cannot remain on without being perfectly still, you may need the safety switch replaced, which should be done by a qualified technician.

Can I repair my outdoor heater myself, or do I need a professional?

You can safely handle basic maintenance and simple fixes yourself, especially if you’re comfortable with DIY tasks. Common homeowner-friendly jobs include:

• Cleaning burners, reflectors, and grilles
• Tightening accessible screws and brackets
• Replacing batteries in ignition systems
• Swapping out a propane tank or resetting power/GFCI

However, anything involving gas lines, regulators, internal wiring, or control valves should be left to a licensed technician. Also call a pro if you notice:

• Persistent gas odors
• Burn or scorch marks
• Repeated shutdowns without a clear cause

This balance keeps costs down while ensuring safety and reliability for your outdoor heating setup. 🔧

Helpful Tips for Keeping Your Outdoor Heater Running Smoothly

• Clean regularly: Wipe down reflectors and housings; brush burner ports every few weeks during heavy use.
• Protect from the elements: Use a weatherproof cover and store under shelter when not in use to reduce rust and clogging.
• Check connections before each season: Inspect hoses, regulators, power cords, and fasteners for cracks, frays, or looseness.
• Use proper fuel and power: Match regulators, propane tanks, and electrical circuits to the heater’s specifications.
• Test safety features: Periodically confirm tilt switches and auto shutoff functions work correctly—never bypass them.
• Schedule pro service annually if you use the heater often, especially for gas models in commercial or multi-family settings.