Essential Repair and Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Heaters
6 minute read | Patio Heaters

Outdoor patio heaters are a great addition to any outdoor space, whether you're running a business or simply enjoying time with family and friends. These devices allow you to extend the usability of your outdoor area even during cooler months. To ensure your investment in outdoor comfort lasts, regular maintenance and quality repair work are essential. At AEI, we offer top-notch customer service and high-quality replacement parts for all our outdoor heating products.
While our Patio Comfort products are built to last, they still require care and attention over time. Common issues that may arise include soot buildup in pilot tubes, pilot failure, low flame, frozen regulators, and difficulty igniting. These problems can often be resolved with routine checks and proper maintenance, helping to keep your heaters running smoothly and safely.
- Soot build up in pilot feed tubes
- Pilot fails to light
- Low burner flame
- Frozen regulator or propane bottle
- Pilot goes out on high or low settings
- Heater burns low and won’t ignite
- Propane smell on starting
How to Care for Your Outdoor Heater
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your patio heater in good condition. Check the fuel cylinder regularly to make sure it's full, as running out of fuel too often can damage the ignition system. If the tank is full but the heater still won't light, there may be an issue with the ignition or fuel delivery system. Listen for a hissing sound—this could indicate a problem with the igniter or gas flow.
If your heater uses an electric ignition, look for a spark when trying to light it. If the spark is present but the heater doesn't start, there might be a blockage in the fuel line. In this case, try lighting it manually with a butane lighter. If that doesn't work, the fuel line could be clogged or disconnected. Always inspect the ignition system for signs of soot, corrosion, or damage, especially if you use the heater frequently for commercial purposes.
The fuel regulator is another component that requires regular attention. This part connects the fuel tank to the burner and should be checked for damage, blockages, or wear. A faulty regulator can prevent fuel from reaching the burner, and in rare cases, may cause dangerous situations if the unit is lit while damaged. Regular inspection helps avoid such risks.
Finally, don't forget to clean the gas pipe periodically. Even though it's uncommon, blockages can occur, especially after long periods of storage. Removing and inspecting the pipe will help identify any issues early. You can blow air through it or flush it with hot water if needed. Make sure it's completely dry before reinstalling.
Outdoor heaters are generally reliable, but like any appliance, they require consistent care to function properly and safely. Replacing worn or broken parts not only extends the life of your heater but also ensures it continues to provide warmth and comfort efficiently.
Owner Manuals for Outdoor Heaters
If you need a copy of your heater’s owner manual, we have digital versions available below. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have.
Available manuals by brand: Patio Comfort, Sunglo, Sunpak, Ambiance.
Want more information? Have a question? Contact us today, and we will be happy to help!
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