10Best.Guide

Propane Heater

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Excellent heating performance for reasonable sized rooms.
  • Works well in well-insulated garages.
  • Effective heat source for open basements with concrete floors and cinder block walls.
  • Easy to install and set up.
  • Has a thermostat to control the burner and maintain a constant temperature.
Cons
  • Accessory blower is noisy and has limited output volume.
  • Pops and cracks loudly when it comes on to heat or shuts off to cool down.
Bottom Line
The Mr. Heater F299830 is an effective propane heater that provides excellent heating performance for reasonable sized rooms, well-insulated garages, and open basements. However, it has some drawbacks such as a noisy and limited accessory blower, loud popping and cracking sounds, and a dangerous fire hazard. Buyers should also be aware of the misleading product description and pictures on the website.
Pros
  • Heats up space quickly and effectively.
  • Easy to use and operate.
  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Minimal smell.
  • Quieter than other similar heaters.
Cons
  • No on/off switch for fan or gas.
  • No thermostat.
Bottom Line
This propane heater is a great option for quickly heating up a space, but it lacks some convenient features like an on/off switch and thermostat. It also burns through propane quickly and requires a larger tank to avoid icing issues. However, it is easy to use and operate, lightweight, and puts out a lot of heat.
Pros
  • Puts out plenty of heat
  • Dual units can be shut down while the other operates
  • Performs well when used properly
  • Swivel heads can be adjusted 15 degrees
  • Shipping was fast
Cons
  • Some units come with a fitting that is not common
  • Needs extreme caution and monitoring in windy situations
Bottom Line
The Mr. Heater propane heater is a powerful and efficient outdoor heating solution, but requires proper caution and monitoring in windy situations. Buyers should be aware of the fitting requirements and potential issues with high elevation use.
Pros
  • Great heat output
  • Quieter than other heaters
  • Fast heating
  • Variable heat levels
  • Good for outdoor use
Cons
  • Cannot turn down heat as much as desired
  • Uses continuous ignition
Bottom Line
This heater is a good option for those looking for a powerful and compact heater with quiet burn technology. However, it may have some issues with ignition and propane usage at higher BTU levels.
Pros
  • Has a thermostat for better temperature control.
  • Warms up a 400 sq ft space quickly and easily.
  • Easy to set up out of the box.
  • Puts out hotter radiant heat than Mr. Heater.
  • Saves money on propane when using a 100 lb cylinder.
Cons
  • Doesn't work above 4500 ft.
  • No adapters or jets available for higher altitudes.
Bottom Line
This propane heater is a good option for heating small spaces with a thermostat for better temperature control. However, it may not work well at higher altitudes and doesn't come with all necessary hardware for setup.

The Ultimate Propane Heater Buying Guide: Types, Features, Prices, and Tips

Overview

Propane heaters are a popular choice for heating homes, garages, patios, and other outdoor spaces. They are efficient, easy to use, and provide heat quickly. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right propane heater for your needs. In this buying guide, we'll explore the various types of propane heaters, key considerations to keep in mind when making your purchase, important features to look for, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

- Portable propane heaters: These heaters are lightweight and easy to move around, making them ideal for outdoor use or for heating small indoor spaces.

- Indoor propane heaters: Designed for indoor use, these heaters come in a variety of styles and sizes, including wall-mounted, freestanding, and tabletop models.

- Outdoor propane heaters: Perfect for patios, decks, and other outdoor spaces, these heaters are designed to withstand the elements and provide heat in colder weather.

- Ventless propane heaters: These heaters don't require a vent or chimney, making them easy to install and use. However, they may not be suitable for all indoor spaces due to safety concerns.

- Propane wall heaters: These heaters are mounted on the wall and are a great option for heating larger indoor spaces.

- Propane garage heaters: Designed specifically for use in garages and workshops, these heaters are powerful and efficient.

- Propane patio heaters: These heaters come in a variety of styles and sizes and are designed to provide heat for outdoor entertaining areas.

- Propane space heaters: These heaters are designed to heat small to medium-sized indoor spaces, such as bedrooms or living rooms.

- Propane infrared heaters: These heaters use infrared technology to provide heat, which is absorbed by objects in the room rather than heating the air directly.

- Propane radiant heaters: These heaters provide heat by radiating warmth from a heating element, making them a popular choice for outdoor use.

Key Considerations

- Size: Consider the size of the space you need to heat and choose a heater that is appropriate for that size.

- Safety: Look for heaters with safety features such as automatic shut-off and tip-over protection.

- Fuel efficiency: Choose a heater that is fuel-efficient to save money on propane costs.

- Noise level: Some propane heaters can be noisy, so consider this if you plan to use the heater in a quiet space.

- Indoor vs outdoor use: Make sure the heater you choose is suitable for either indoor or outdoor use, depending on your needs.

Features

- BTU output: This measures the amount of heat the heater can produce. Choose a heater with a BTU output that is appropriate for the size of the space you need to heat.

- Ignition system: Look for heaters with an easy-to-use ignition system, such as a push-button or electronic ignition.

- Thermostat: A thermostat allows you to set the desired temperature and the heater will automatically turn on and off to maintain that temperature.

- Timer: Some heaters come with a timer function that allows you to set the heater to turn on or off at specific times.

- Portability: If you need a heater that can be moved around easily, look for models with built-in wheels or handles.

Prices

Propane heaters range in price from around $50 for a small portable heater to over $500 for a large, high-end model. The price will depend on the type of heater, size, and features.

Tips

- Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and safety.

- Keep the area around the heater clear of flammable materials.

- Use propane heaters only in well-ventilated areas.

- Consider purchasing a carbon monoxide detector if you plan to use a propane heater indoors.

- Regularly maintain and clean your propane heater to ensure it operates safely and efficiently.

FAQs

Q: Can propane heaters be used indoors?

A: Yes, many propane heaters are designed for indoor use. However, it's important to follow safety guidelines and ensure the space is well-ventilated.

Q: How much propane does a heater use?

A: The amount of propane a heater uses will depend on the BTU output and the length of time it's used. Check the manufacturer's specifications for more information.

Q: Are propane heaters more efficient than electric heaters?

A: Propane heaters can be more efficient than electric heaters, depending on the size of the space being heated and the cost of propane in your area.

Q: Can propane heaters be used in a power outage?

A: Yes, propane heaters can be used in a power outage as long as there is a supply of propane available.

Q: How do I clean my propane heater?

A: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning your propane heater. Typically, you'll need to turn off the heater and allow it to cool before wiping down the exterior and cleaning the burner and other components.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Heats up quickly
  • Portable
  • No electricity required
  • Good for outdoor use
  • Easy to assemble and use
Cons
  • Can be too hot for small spaces
  • May not be suitable for radiant heat
Bottom Line
The Mr. Heater propane heater is a portable and efficient heating solution that is great for outdoor use. It heats up quickly and provides a lot of heat, but may not be suitable for small spaces or radiant heat. It is easy to assemble and use, but may have issues with the regulator and can be noisy. Additionally, buyers should be aware that it may not be returnable despite website claims.
Pros
  • Easy to put propane bottles
  • Clean look with side covers
  • Provides great heat
  • Can use with larger tanks
  • Good propane life
Cons
  • Pilot light easily extinguished
  • Sometimes won't stay lit
Bottom Line
The Big Buddy heater is a good option for outdoor heating, but it has some limitations and safety concerns for indoor use. It provides great heat and has good propane life, but the pilot light can be easily extinguished and it may not stay lit at times.
Pros
  • Well constructed
  • Approved for indoor and outdoor use
  • Easy to use
  • Good for emergencies
  • Heats up small spaces quickly
Cons
  • Uses more fuel than expected
  • Creates moisture inside sleeping quarters
Bottom Line
This propane heater is a well-constructed and easy-to-use option for heating small spaces during emergencies or outdoor activities. However, it may use more fuel than expected and create moisture inside sleeping quarters. It is important to follow safety instructions and use in well-ventilated areas.
Pros
  • Provides a lot of heat quickly
  • Easy to set up
  • Good for garages and workshops
  • Produces a lot of heat on low
  • Great for outdoor use
Cons
  • Very loud
  • Can be dangerous to light
Bottom Line
This propane space heater is a great option for quickly heating up garages, workshops, and outdoor spaces. However, it is very loud and can be dangerous to light. It is not suitable for indoor use and can produce an odor when first used.
Pros
  • Produces a lot of heat
  • Easy to install
  • Well-built
  • Directs heat well
  • Heats up quickly
Cons
  • Burns through propane quickly
  • No electric start button
Bottom Line
The Dura Heat Tank Top Heater is a powerful and easy-to-use heater that is great for outdoor use. However, it may burn through propane quickly and has some durability issues.
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