Imagine transforming your patio or entryway with the timeless glow of gas lanterns, but you’re not sure how these enchanting fixtures actually work outdoors. Knowing how gas lanterns function on exterior walls is key to making a safe, stylish choice for your home.
In this article, we’ll demystify outdoor gas lanterns—explaining their operation, installation steps, maintenance, and tips to enjoy their classic charm. Get ready to confidently light up your exterior with elegant, lasting ambiance.
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If you want to infuse your home’s outdoor spaces with timeless charm and welcoming warmth, exterior gas lanterns are an excellent choice. These fixtures have graced street corners and residences for centuries and continue to be a favorite in classic and modern designs. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how exterior gas lanterns work, their benefits, potential challenges, installation tips, and answers to common questions.
The Basics: What Are Exterior Gas Lanterns?
Exterior gas lanterns are outdoor light fixtures that use gas—usually natural gas or propane—as their fuel source. They provide a steady, often flickering flame that not only lights up the area but also creates a cozy, inviting ambiance reminiscent of historic streets and southern architecture.
How Do They Work?
- Gas Supply: Gas lanterns connect to a natural gas line or a refillable propane tank. The fuel travels through the fixture’s pipes.
- Ignition: The gas is released into a burner tip or mantle inside the lantern. Some models need manual lighting, while others offer electric ignitions.
- Flame: As the gas is ignited, a flame burns—sometimes steadily, sometimes with a gentle flicker, depending on the lantern’s design.
- Adjustment: Many lanterns allow you to control the flame size for aesthetic or efficiency reasons.
- Ventilation: Proper design ensures safe burning, allowing combustion gases to escape safely while preventing wind extinguishing the flame.
Types of Exterior Gas Lanterns
You’ll find several popular styles and fuel options to suit your taste and needs.
By Mounting Style
- Wall Mounted Lanterns: Fixed to the wall by the front door, garage, or patio.
- Post Lanterns: Mounted on top of poles, ideal for driveways or walkways.
- Hanging Lanterns: Suspended from ceilings of porches or covered entries.
- Column Mounted Lanterns: Placed atop stone or brick columns, enhancing entry gates.
By Fuel Source
- Natural Gas: Taps into your home’s existing gas line; offers a continuous supply.
- Propane: Uses refillable tanks, making them suitable for locations without a gas line.
Advantages of Exterior Gas Lanterns
Decorative gas lighting for the outdoors brings unique benefits you won’t always get from electric fixtures.
Why Choose Gas Lanterns?
- Timeless Aesthetic: The soft, flickering glow adds character and curb appeal, perfect for homes with classic, coastal, or southern styles.
- Ambiance: Gas flames create a warm, inviting environment that electric bulbs can rarely imitate.
- Durability: Many gas lanterns, especially those made from copper or brass, withstand harsh outdoor conditions and last for decades.
- Low Electrical Dependence: Since they don’t rely on the power grid, gas lanterns are immune to electrical outages.
- Variety: With options from New Orleans-inspired designs to sleek modern fixtures, you can complement any home exterior.
Important Considerations and Challenges
It’s important to understand a few potential drawbacks and safety factors before installing gas lanterns outside.
Potential Challenges
- Installation Complexity: Connecting to a gas line or safely running propane tanks requires professional installation.
- Operating Cost: Because gas must burn continuously (unless you have an electric ignition), energy costs can add up over months.
- Wind Sensitivity: Strong wind can sometimes blow out the flame, although well-designed lanterns resist this.
- Local Codes: Always check building codes or homeowners’ association guidelines for gas-powered outdoor lighting.
Safety Tips
- Regularly inspect fixtures and gas lines for leaks or damage.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors nearby, especially if lanterns are near enclosed spaces.
- Keep flammable materials away from lanterns.
- Always use a licensed professional for installation and line connections.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Installing Gas Lanterns
Selecting the right lantern and ensuring proper installation are key to enjoying years of beautiful outdoor lighting.
Tips for Picking the Perfect Gas Lantern
- Consider Your Home’s Style: Match the lantern’s design and finish to your architectural features—colonial, farmhouse, modern, etc.
- Choose High-Quality Materials: Opt for fixtures made from marine-grade copper, brass, or powder-coated steel for maximum durability.
- Assess Sizing: Make sure the lantern fits the scale of your entrance, driveway, or porch. A lantern that looks too small or too large can throw off the visual balance.
- Select Mounting Style: Think about where you want the lanterns—wall, hanging, post, or column—and ensure the model supports your desired installation.
- Fuel Source: Decide between hooking into a natural gas line (great for ongoing use) or using refillable propane (for more flexibility or remote areas).
- Ignition Type: Consider manual lighting for traditional charm, or look for electric ignition if you want modern convenience.
Professional Installation Advice
- Have a certified plumber or gas technician install or connect your lantern to ensure safety and code compliance.
- If using propane, place tanks in well-ventilated, concealed areas.
- Confirm the fixture is tightly sealed against the weather and properly vented.
Maintenance Best Practices
- Clean the glass and metal surfaces regularly to remove soot and keep the lantern glowing brightly.
- Inspect the burner or mantle for debris or corrosion every few months.
- Test the ignition system periodically, especially after storms or periods of disuse.
- Turn off the gas supply if you’re going on an extended trip.
Cost Tips and Shipping Advice
Lantern Costs
- Fixture Price: Quality gas lanterns start around a few hundred dollars and can exceed a thousand dollars for hand-crafted, designer pieces.
- Installation: Professional installation fees vary but often range from $200-$600 per lantern, depending on existing gas access and mounting needs.
- Operating Costs: The cost of running natural gas is generally lower than using propane tanks. Keep in mind, gas lanterns are usually left burning for many hours or even continuously for best visual impact.
Tips for Saving Money
- Bundle Fixtures: Some manufacturers offer discounts when purchasing multiple lanterns for one property.
- Seasonal Sales: Outdoor lanterns often go on sale at the end of summer or during early spring. Watch for promotions.
- Energy-Efficient Burners: Look for lanterns with adjustable flame controls to reduce fuel consumption.
- DIY Prep Work: If permitted, you can prep the mounting site yourself (like installing mounting blocks) to save labor costs, but always leave gas line work to the pros.
Shipping Considerations
- Weight and Materials: Copper and brass fixtures may be heavier; check shipping rates, especially for multiple or oversized lanterns.
- White Glove Delivery: For high-end or fragile lanterns, consider this option for ensured safe arrival.
- Insurance: For large orders, insure your shipment to protect your investment.
- Lead Times: Custom or hand-made lanterns can have longer production and shipping times—plan ahead if you have an event or installation deadline.
Expert Design Inspiration
Many historic and contemporary homes feature gas lanterns as focal points. Imagine the flicker of a copper lantern from a French Quarter alley or the grand entrance of a coastal estate. Today, companies offer hundreds of customizable options—allowing you to find the perfect match for your style, whether it’s antique and ornate or minimalist and clean.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are gas lanterns safe for exterior use?
Yes, when installed and maintained correctly by a professional, exterior gas lanterns are designed to operate safely. It’s crucial to ensure proper ventilation and keep the lantern clear of flammable materials. Regular inspections of the gas line and fixture will help maintain safe operation.
2. Do gas lanterns provide enough light for pathways and entrances?
Natural gas lanterns offer a soft, ambient glow. While they add atmosphere and are sufficient for marking entrances or illuminating small areas, they may not be as bright as modern LED lights. Some models feature mantles or multiple burners to increase brightness for larger areas.
3. How do I turn my gas lantern on and off?
Traditional gas lanterns usually require manual lighting with a long lighter or match. Some newer models feature electric ignition systems, allowing you to turn them on and off with a switch, remote control, or timer for added convenience.
4. Can I install a gas lantern myself?
It’s strongly recommended to have a certified professional handle the installation, especially the gas line connection. Improper installation can pose serious safety risks. You can, however, choose and prepare the mounting location if comfortable with basic carpentry tools.
5. How much does it cost to operate a gas lantern per month?
The cost depends on the fuel source and how long the lantern burns each day. On average, a single natural gas lantern left on 24/7 may cost between $10 to $20 per month. Propane models can cost more depending on local prices and usage.
Conclusion
Exterior gas lanterns offer homeowners a beautiful way to illuminate outdoor spaces with timeless elegance and romance. By understanding how they work, their benefits, and how to install and maintain them properly, you can create a welcoming atmosphere for your home’s exterior that blends old-world charm with modern reliability. With smart product choices, proper care, and safe installation, your home can shine with the warmth and sophistication only a flickering flame can provide.