The 10 Best Propane Space Heaters

The Best Propane Space Heaters

With so many types of heaters available in the market, many people get exhausted and confused while choosing the best heating system that suits their personal expectations. However many people use old complicated systems leading to high costs and unsafe heating.

In our professional opinion the F215100 MH4B Little Buddy Propane Space Heater, from Mr. Heater, is the best propane space heater currently on the market.

The “space heating” technique is a popular heating technology used where one wants to heat only a small area, usually work or office environment. In certain situations, it can be much more efficient and cost-effective when compared to central heating.

The 10 Best Propane Space Heaters:

Below we have listed the 10 best propane space heaters currently available for sale online. This list is reviewed and updated regularly

1. Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy Propane Space Heater

mr-heater-f215100-mh4b-little-buddy-3800-btu-indoor-safe-propane-heater-500x500-9657760
Heat output9 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up 100
Weight5.02 pounds
Dimension10.9 x 10.9 x 10.9 “
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Well priced
  • Safe to operate
  • Reliable brand 
  • Easy to use
  • Small and light

Cons:

  • Will not be effective in large rooms
  • Can take some time to start on occasion

Now, this quaint little heater can be your best friend. It’s light, and portable, and can be placed almost anywhere. Indeed, while it covers just 95 square feet, it’s great for small spaces and areas, and can help you keep warm and cozy on those cold winter nights.

The heat it gives off is odor-free and it directs it at a 45-degree angle. Also, it’s quite easy and simple to use, with none of those needless annoying bells and whistles. Not only that, but it has two safety features, both for low oxygen levels and for accidental tip-over points.

2. Dyna-Glo TT15CDGP 15,000 Liquid Propane Tank Top Space Heater

dyna-glo-tt15cdgp-15000-liquid-propane-tank-top-heater-500x500-5065765
Heat output15 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up 700
Weight3.4 pounds
Dimension18.2 x 15.6 x 13 “
Safety auto shut offNo

Pros:

  • Quality build and materials for durability
  • Safe to operate
  • Heat control
  • Effective heat delivery
  • Heats in multiple directions

Cons:

  • Not the most attractive heater for indoor use
  • No electric or push-start ignition

Now Dyna Glo is a heater that, while small and portable, has a lot of power, is more focused on safety and durability. First, it has a steel heat reflector. This means that every ounce of heat it radiates is amplified and enhanced, making every penny you spend on both fuel and the heater itself really worth it.

Furthermore, it has a nice rust-proof chrome emitter guard, meaning that is will definitely last you for a long time. Not only that, but it has a sensor that essentially cuts off the gas flow if the flame has been extinguished, making it a very useful safety feature.

3. Mr. Heater MHVFB20LPT Blue Flame Propane Space Heater

mr-heater-mhvfb20lpt-vent-free-blue-flame-propane-heater-2382394
Heat output20 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up 500
Weight24.8 pounds
Dimension23.8 x 11.2 x 27 “
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Good safety features
  • Delivers fast efficient heat
  • Can be wall-mounted or freestanding (mounts and legs included)
  • Built-in thermostat 
  • Durable construction 

Cons:

  • Not the most compact option
  • Lacks a blower 

This lovely little heater covers an area of around 500 square feet. It’s perfect to put in the corner of your study or small workshop. It also has a humble 20000 BTU heat output, but there is no need for anything more when you’re searching for space-friendly, compact heaters.

Next, it has a blue flame burner, so it gives off a nice and even convection heat. Not only that, but it also has a very good safety feature, namely, it has an automatic low oxygen shutoff system. So, if it starts eating up all the air in a sealed room, it will stop working and may save you from a grisly fate.

4. Mr. Hreater Compact Radiant Propane Space Heater

compact-radiant-propane-heater-by-mr-heater-308x500-2413080
Heat outputN/A
SQ/f heat up 700
Weight6 pounds
Dimension33 x 22 x 14 “
Safety auto shut offN/A

Pros:

  • Light and easy to move
  • Great design
  • Solid brand 
  • Focuses heat where needed

Cons:

  • Some found it hard to start
  • Will no work for large areas

Now, this little compact heater sits lovely on the far end of your desk. Not only does it look nice, but it’s also quite efficient. While not packing a lot of power, its main feature is its small and compact size. It directs heat in a narrow-angle, but it’s not intended for big spaces.

Indeed, it’s perfect for fishing shacks and ice shanties, and any and all small spaces. Furthermore, it has an auto shut-off mechanism when tipped over, so you won’t need to worry at all about that. Finally, it just looks nice, like a lamp that brings you warmth.

5. ProCom ML100HBAHR Propane Space Heater, 10,000 BTU

procom-ml100hbahr-propane-heater-10000-btu-500x500-7993138
Heat output10 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up 300
Weight13 pounds
Dimension19 x 14 x 6 “
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Small, light, and portable
  • Electric Piezo starter
  • The exterior is a cool touch
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Not as durable as some other options
  • Instructions are not very clear

The ProCom is a lovely little heater that gives off around 10000 BTUs of heat. It’s quite easy to use and has the CSA approval standard, so you know you’re dealing with a good heater. Now, it doesn’t really give off as much heat as other heaters do, but that’s not the point.

It’s supposed to be used in small areas to keep you warm and cozy. Furthermore, a nice addition is that its cabinet is actually cool to the touch, no matter how hot the heater actually gets. Also, it has a diamond mesh grill already set up and installed, so you won’t need to deal with that when you get this product.

6. Dyna-Glo RA18LPDG 18,000 BTU Cabinet Propane Space Heater

dyna-glo-ra18lpdg-18000-btu-cabinet-propane-space-heater-333x500-2997628
Heat output18 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up450 to 600
Weight20 pounds
Dimension16.1 x 17.5 x 23.2 inches
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Attractive design
  • Piezo Ignition 
  • Casters for portability
  • Three heat settings
  • Cabinet conceals the propane tank

Cons:

  • Slightly bulky
  • Highly sensitive trip switch

This is a smart looking cabinet heater from Dyna-Glo that is extremely effective. It will give you a good 18 000 BTU so ideal for rooms up to around 600 square feet. It is not the smallest propane space heater but is light enough to move around. It has convenient carry handles and casters to make this easier. 

A Piezo ignition makes it quick and easy to start and the 2 plaque heating system generates fast effective heat. It has good safety features including a front grill. The casters lock into place for added safety. 

What is great about cabinet heaters is that they conceal the propane tank making them look even better. This unit will look perfect in any room or environment. You can adjust the heat to your preference from 6 000 to 12 000 to 18 000 BTUs. 

7. Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 9,000-BTU Portable Propane Space Heater

mr-heater-f232000-mh9bx-buddy-9000-btu-portable-propane-space-heater-404x500-3013091
Heat output9 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up200
Weight9 pounds
Dimension7.7 x 13.4 x 15 inches
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Reasonably priced
  • Well built
  • Compact and portable
  • Indoor or outdoor use 
  • Safe

Cons:

  • Exposed flame
  • Not suitable for use at high altitudes

Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater Specs

By now you will have noticed that we are big fans of Mr. Heater products. We are not alone and they are a popular top-selling brand. This is for good reason as they offer reliability and good performance at affordable prices. The  F232000 MH9BX Buddy is no exception. 

It puts out up to 9 000 BTUs allowing to heat up a room around 225 square feet. You can easily adjust the heat for a comfortable temperature. It has good safety features and a robust durable design that is not bad looking. It can even be used outside. The unit is light and portable allowing you to take it with you wherever you want to get rid of the chill. 

8. Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Heater Furnace Built-in Thermostat

martin-direct-vent-propane-wall-heater-furnace-built-in-thermostat-241x500-9523910
Heat output8 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up194
Weight29 pounds
Dimensions11.9 x 7.1 x 22.7 inches
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Looks great
  • Easy to install
  • Integrated thermostat
  • Saves space
  • Quality build and materials 

Cons:

  • Expensive 
  • Low noise (on pilot mode)

The Martin Direct Vent Propane Heater fits snugly against your wall without taking up much space at all. It looks neat and modern and will fit in with any room decor style. With 8 000 BTU heat output, it will keep a small to medium sized area warm and toasty even on the coldest nights.  

It has a durable die-cast aluminum grill as well as a glass ceramic window. This will allow you to see the soothing blue flame. Installation is a breeze and maintenance is easy. The heater has a thermostat to keep the room at a comfortable temperature. 

Another great feature is that it is super-easy to install. The unit is easy to use and low maintenance.

9. Comfort Glow GCH480 Propane(LP) Cabinet Heater

comfort-glow-gch480-propanelp-cabinet-heater-3007190
Heat output18 000
SQ/f heat up 450
Weight16.75 pounds
Dimensions13.25 x 13.75 x 23 inches
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Reasonable price
  • Variable heat control
  • Push-button starter
  • Good safety features 
  • Hose and regulator included 

Cons:

  • Slightly bulky
  • Not ideal for larger rooms

The  GCH480 has a decent design and will not look out of place in your home. It has all the necessary safety features and is easy to operate. The cabinet heater delivers up to 18 000 BTU and has a choice of 3 heat settings. It can warm an area up to 450 square feet. 

The push-button start will get it going instantly for fast and effective heat. All of this is available at a fair price. It comes with the hose and regulator so you have everything you need to add to your propane tank.

10. Rinnai FC824P Vent-Free Propane Space Heater

rinnai-fc824p-vent-free-propane-space-heater-570x500-3300738
Heat output22 000
SQ/f heat up1 000
Weight32 pounds
Dimension3 x 10 x 20 inches
Safety auto shut offYes

Pros:

  • Sleek attractive design 
  • Impressive heat output
  • Adjustable heat
  • Safe cool-touch cabinet
  • Quiet
  • Easy to install 

Cons:

  • Quite expensive
  • Not portable 

The  FC824P by Rinnai has a lot going for it. It has a sleek modern design that will look great anywhere. Despite the streamlined design it delivers up to 22 000 BTU which is great even in large rooms. You can comfortably heat an area up to 1 000 square feet and the heat can be adjusted to your exact requirements. 

Apart from good safety features, it has a cool-touch cabinet. This is great for children, pets, and even adults that might brush against it. The heater is quiet and extremely efficient. Feedback from customers was extremely positive and most people love this heater. 

It is a fair investment but is a quality item that works great, looks amazing and will give you warmth for many years to come.

Propane Space Heater Types

These are the 3 main space heater types:

Radiant

Heat reflecting panels help to increase the intensity and direction of the heat making these heaters effective and efficient. They do not make a noise and are available in a range of sizes and heat options to suit your needs. 

Convection

Although a bit slower to get going, these heaters are good at warming a room for long periods. They are also a bit safer as the flame is enclosed. Convection heaters are economical to run and provide comforting warmth. 

Forced

These use a powerful air current to “force” the hot air. This helps to move it around and warm a large area quickly and effectively.

Vented vs Ventless Propane Space Heaters

Vented or Ventless – while setting up a heating system, basic factors like venting should be considered. In both scenarios “vented and vent-less” heating has its own pros and cons’. Most permanent wall propane heaters have vents, allowing the burned unwanted material waste out of the house through disposal pipes.

Ventless (or vent-free) heaters are portable making them convenient for working outdoors where there is enough air to mitigate any and all toxic emissions. While using vent-less heaters indoors, it always recommended to install a ventilation window or air holes.

Otherwise, carbon-monoxide may build up. Too much carbon monoxide can cause fatigue and finally result even in death, due to an insufficient supply of oxygen in the body.

Basics of a Propane Space Heater

When picking a propane space heater for your home, you have to evaluate precisely what task you require it to do. You have to first figure out exactly what your needs and options are, and then make your choice.

You can get a heater that is portable, that you can move from one room to the next. And if that’s not something you need, you can get a propane space heater that will be mounted in a specific location warming an entire house rather quickly. There are many various types of heaters to select, so you need to figure out what you truly need.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Propane Space Heaters

Advantages

  • Compared to most heating solutions, propane heaters don’t operate with the aid of electric power. This makes them efficient, and especially handy during a blackout. They are also useful in places where there is no electricity in general.
  • They are also ideal while using in the field because of their portability. Regardless of the fact that it’s a bit cold outside, you can have an incredible night on your porch or deck with a propane radiator warming you.
  • A new space heater does not need to be costly; there are heaps of cheap warmers accessible. Even if you buy an expensive one, the fuel and operating costs are very cheap. Propane heaters are very economical and help you save over 65% when compared to other heating solutions.
  • Compared to kerosene, propane produces a clean environment when burning, making it more human-friendly in comparison with kerosene heaters, which can produce soot and nasty smoke.

Disadvantages

  • Propane heaters require more maintenance when compared to other heating systems.
  • Dangerous exhaust fumes can enter the room if the system is not vented appropriately and in a timely manner.
  • Clearance necessities must be met if a fire springs out. You must make sure ignitable materials stay far from the unit heating system.
  • The environment in which the heater is located in must be clean and tidy. Dust and dirt can interfere with how the heater operates.

Propane Space Heater Safety

As the saying goes “SAFETY FIRST”. People often make the mistake of not reading warning labels and manufacturer guides. This can, at best, give you sub-optimal results from your heater. At worst, it becomes a serious health and disaster risk.

Safety Features to Look For

Fortunately, modern propane space heaters have good safety features as standard. Ensure that the one you get has the following:

High temp cutoff

You want to ensure that if the unit gets dangerously hot that is shuts down quickly and automatically. 

Tip/topple cutoff

A tipped over heater can be extremely dangerous. This feature will ensure that it cuts off instantly if it is tipped over. 

Oxygen Depletion sensor

Propane heaters can burn up the oxygen in the room under certain conditions leading to a serious health hazard. An oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) is essential to eliminate this risk. 

Quick Safety Tips

  • Portable propane space heaters should not be operated while being sleepy, this can cause an accident.
  • The recommended color of a perfect propane frame is blue, occasionally if the propane color changes to yellow or red, special attention is needed. It is recommended to contact  the system engineer in case of any inconveniences
  • The propane tanks should not be exposed to excessive heat, this may lead to explosions
  • For portable heaters, always attach and detach the system outdoors where there is enough air, incase the operations of the heater fail
  • Never work the heaters close to any combustible fluid or vapors. Keep all combustible substances far away from the heater.
  • In case a leak is detected, it’s always safe to switch off all appliances in the area to avoid the danger of fires and harm.
  • Disconnect gas pipes and valves if surrounding temperatures drop beneath -10° F and if the propane tank is empty. Keep propane amenities out of reach of unauthorized personnel and kids.

FAQs

What is propane space heating?

Space heating is a technique where one employs to heat a small space commonly a working environment using a  propane heater compared to central heating where one has to warm the entire interior of a building.

How to connect a propane tank to a propane space heater?

Fortunately, most modern propane space heaters are easy to assemble and connect. Generally, they come with all the parts needed but in some cases, hose and other items might need to be purchased separately. Most will connect to all size tanks but some only work with specific propane tanks. 

You need to ensure you have the correct regulator, service lines, and connections. The heater should come with step by step instructions for easy connection. 

How much propane does a space heater use?

This will depend on the power output of the heater (BTU) and the setting on which you use it. The greater the BTU the more propane you will use. 

What size area can a propane space heater heat?

Again, this is determined by the BTU. A larger area will need a heater with a higher BTU. For small to medium sized indoor areas, 8 000 to 10 000 BTU should be sufficient. Larger rooms will need 12 000 BTU or more. 

Conclusion

Now that it’s obvious that propane is the most convenient fuel for your garage, following manufacturer’s guidelines and safety to the letter, will help you rip the full benefits of the system.

Many propane heaters offer an adjustable heat control setting that fits each individual comfort while operating the machine and also utilizing small garage space alignment.