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Factors to Consider When Buying an Indoor Propane Heater

by Patricia Turla October 15, 2022 5 min read

The struggle to keep warm is real, and traditional heating methods like huddling by the fireplace or cranking up the thermostat just aren’t cutting it. But before you dash off to add a heater to your cart, there are a lot of brands to explore. Each propane heater has features for different needs and spaces— and there are factors to consider whenbuying an indoor propane heater.

Summary

Who Uses Indoor Propane Heaters?

Indoor propane heaters are popular among homeowners, renters, off-grid enthusiasts, tiny house dwellers, and outdoor enthusiasts for supplemental heating.

Available Sizes of Indoor Propane Heaters

Propane heaters come in various sizes, from small (up to 5,000 BTUs) for personal warmth to extra-large (over 30,000 BTUs) for industrial spaces, catering to different heating needs.

Installation of Indoor Propane Heaters

Installing an indoor propane heater involves choosing the right model, ensuring proper ventilation, following safety guidelines, and potentially seeking professional help.

Different Options for Indoor Propane Heaters

Top brands like Martin Heaters, Mr. Heater, ProCom, and Rinnai offer various features, including safety mechanisms, fuel efficiency, and modern designs, making them reliable choices for indoor heating.

Who Uses Indoor Propane Heaters?

Martin Direct Vent Propane Heaters | Let Your Space be Covered With Warmth

Indoor propane heaters attract a diverse group of users, such as:

  1. Homeowners and Renters:Many people use indoor propane heaters to warm up a particularly cold space or provide extra heat during a harsh winter.

  2. Off-Grid Enthusiasts and Tiny House Dwellers

    • Off-Grid Living: For those living off the grid, propane heaters don’t rely on electricity.

    • Tiny House Living: Indoor propane heaters offer high heat output without taking up much space in your home.

  3. Outdoor Enthusiasts

    • Garages and Workshops: Many hobbyists and professionals who spend time in unheated garages or workshops turn to indoor propane heaters to stay warm while working on projects.

    • Camping and RVs: For campers and RV owners, portable propane heaters are easy to use and ideal for outdoor adventures where traditional heating options aren’t available.

Available Sizes of Indoor Propane Heaters

Various sizes of propane heaters are available:

Size Heating Capacity Pros Cons
Small Propane Heaters (Up to 5,000 BTUs) For small rooms or spaces up to 200 sq ft. Easy to store and ideal for spot heating and personal warmth. Limited heating capacity; unsuitable for larger spaces or whole-house heating.
Medium Propane Heaters (5,000 to 15,000 BTUs) Can heat rooms ranging from 200 to 500 sq ft. Versatile and can serve as a primary heat source for medium-sized rooms or as supplemental heating. Slightly bulkier than small heaters, requiring more space for operation and storage.
Large Propane Heaters (15,000 to 30,000 BTUs) Best for large rooms or open spaces up to 1,000 sq ft. High heating capacity, suitable for large areas and even small homes. Larger and heavier, making them less portable. Higher fuel consumption.
Extra-Large Propane Heaters (Over 30,000 BTUs) Capable of heating very large areas, such as open-plan homes or industrial spaces. Produce radiant heat, allowing handling the heating needs of large, open areas. Not suitable for small spaces, heavy, and less energy-efficient for small areas.

Installation of Indoor Propane Heaters

Install Indoor Propane Heater

Below is everything you need to know about installing an indoor propane heater, from the tools you need to safety precautions.

  1. Choose Your Heater: Select the right propane heater for your space. Consider the size of the area you need to heat and the type of heater—a radiant heater, a portable propane heater, or a convection unit—that suits your needs.

  2. Tools and Materials: Gather your propane heater, propane tank, hose, wrench, drill, screws, mounting brackets, and a carbon monoxide detector. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for any additional tools or parts.

  3. Pick the Perfect Spot: Select a location with adequate ventilation and clearances. Avoid placing the heater near flammable materials or in high-traffic areas where it could be knocked over.

  4. Install Mounting Brackets: Use a drill to install the mounting brackets at the desired height for wall-mounted heaters.

  5. Connect the Heater to the Propane Tank: Attach the hose to the heater and the propane tank. Use a wrench to ensure all connections are tight, but be careful not to overtighten.

  6. Check for Leaks: Apply a soapy water solution to the connections. Turn on the propane tank and look for bubbles that indicate a leak. When there are bubbles, tighten the connections and test again.

  7. Install the Carbon Monoxide Detector: Place a carbon monoxide detector near the heater to monitor for any dangerous gas build-up. Safety first!

  8. Test the Heater: Turn on the heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Observe the unit for a few minutes to ensure it’s operating correctly.

Safety Precautions During Installation

During installation, remember the following:

  • Ventilation: Ensure the space is well-ventilated to prevent the build-up of harmful gases. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on ventilation requirements.

  • Clearances: Maintain proper clearance from walls, furniture, and other objects. Most manufacturers recommend at least three feet of clearance on all sides.

  • Building Codes: Check local building codes and regulations. Some areas have specific requirements for installing propane heaters.

  • Carbon Monoxide Detector: Always use a carbon monoxide detector when operating a propane heater indoors.

  • Professional Installation: Hire a professional to install the heater when you are in doubt or have questions regarding the installation.

Different Options for Indoor Propane Heaters

Some top brands of propane heaters:

Martin Heaters

Martin Propane Direct Vent Heaters | Gain Access to the Safety Features

Martin Heaters are the top indoor space heaters for several reasons.

  • Stylish Design: Compact yet powerful.

  • Safety: Own advanced safety features like oxygen depletion sensors and automatic shut-off.

  • Efficiency: Use propane efficiently, saving you money in the long run.

  • Quiet Operation: Ideal for bedrooms and living rooms, as they operate quietly.

  • Durability: Made with high-quality materials.

  • Customer Service: Have excellent customer support, ensuring a great user experience.

Martin Heaters Buying Options

Mr. Heater

Mr. Heater is a go-to brand for many due to the following:

  • Popular Models: The Buddy series

  • Safety Features: Safety shut-off mechanisms

  • Ease of Use: Easy ignition systems

ProCom

ProCom offers:

  • Fuel Options: Dual fuel technology

  • User Convenience: Thermostat controls

  • Installation: Easy installation process

Rinnai

Rinnai is a tech-savvy choice, offering heaters that can be controlled via Wi-Fi.

  • Tech Features: Remote control via Wi-Fi

  • Efficiency: High-efficiency ratings

  • Design: Sleek and modern designs

Conclusion

Staying warm during the colder months requires more than just traditional heating methods. Indoor propane heaters present a versatile and efficient alternative, catering to various users. With sizes ranging from small, portable propane heater units to large, high-capacity heaters, a model fits every space and need.

With reputable brands like Martin Heaters, Mr. Heater, ProCom, and Rinnai offering advanced features and reliable performance, choosing the right propane heater can transform your heating experience, providing warmth and comfort in any environment.

Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Patricia Turla
Patricia Turla

Patricia, a seasoned writer and editor, brings a wealth of experience and a pinch of flair to the world of off-grid living. With a sharp pen and an ever-curious mind, Patricia has collaborated on and edited various publications covering off-grid solar power, prepper's canning and preserving, and water purification. These numerous publications under her belt have been instrumental in shaping how-to guides and educational material for those keen on being off the grid. Beyond that, her commitment to empowering others with knowledge and her hands-on experience make her a trusted voice in the community of sustainable living advocates.

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