10 Best Propane Heaters in 2022 (Mr. Heater, Remington, and More)

Propane heaters come in a variety of types, all with their own special features. It's a lot to keep in mind, but we've compiled our list to help you make the right decision. We've included everything from small and portable options to wheeled cabinet versions!

Here are some important points to keep in mind while picking out a propane heater!

Depending on the specific area you’re trying to heat, you have a few different options to choose from. One choice is a space heater that runs off propane instead of electricity. They’re usually portable and self-contained, so they’re great for heating compact areas like a garage or small room.

Another option is a forced-air heater, and it varies in shape and size. This type has an internal fan that expels hot air from the machine. This makes them noisier than other models. But, since hot air is continually released, they’re better for heating large areas.

Convection heaters are very similar to forced air heaters, as they push heat into the air. The only difference is that convection heaters use natural air circulation instead of fans. Using this kind of machine is a popular way to heat entire homes, especially since it uses less electricity than due to the lack of fans.

You can also opt for radiant heaters, which transfer heat directly and quickly to an object rather than heating the air. They’re usually portable and a little larger than space heaters, and they are best for small rooms. They can warm you in a large room, but their heat dissipates quickly once you turn them off.

You'll also want to make sure your heater is designated for indoor use. Certain models, like propane-mounted radiant heaters, can be dangerous indoors since their carbon monoxide levels are only suitable for the outdoors. 

Some heaters are ventless. They’re completely self-contained, but they don’t produce harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, that need to be released during the combustion process. Ventless options also allow you to skip cleaning up soot!

They’re also very fuel-efficient, burning up to 99 percent of what’s in them, and require less fuel to operate. This can make them cheaper to run. And, most ventless heaters run silently and are easy to install and remove. 

The heat produced by propane heaters is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). BTUs are a measurement of energy that reflects the specific amount it takes to raise one pound of water to one degree Fahrenheit. Some heater models come equipped with thermostats for adjustable heat settings. 

But remember, the more BTUs a heater puts out, the quicker it uses up gas. It’s not that a certain number of BTUs is better or worse; it just depends on your needs. You’ll have to take your specific room size, ceiling height, insulation, outside temperature, windows, intended location, and the layout of your home into account when deciding how many BTUs you need. 

For example, if you're trying to heat up to 200 square feet in a well-insulated room, you'll need at least 400 BTUs. Whereas a poorly-insulated room of the same size or a well-insulated one that's bigger might need around 8,000. Also, you'll want to familiarize yourself with CFMs (cubic feet per minute), which are units used to measure airflow.

When buying a propane heater, you’ll also need to think about how you want it to start. There are two ignition options: manual and automatic. Automatic options allow you to simply press a button to start your machine. But with manual heaters, you must manually ignite the fuel to turn your heater on.

Heaters with automatic ignitions are generally quicker and more convenient since you don’t need matches or a lighter to start them. They’re also less of a hazard because you’re not working with an open flame.

However, automatic models have their downsides. They require electricity or batteries and wear out quicker, making them require more part replacements and maintenance.

When buying a heater, you might want to keep certain features in mind. CSA-certifications (which stands for Canadian Standards Association but has to do with all of North America) show that a mechanical, electrical, or plumbing-related product meets quality measures under US law, as well as other independent organizations like UL. 

A UL-certification (which stands for Underwriter Laboratories) guarantees that products, facilities, processes, and systems are based on industry-wide standards.

If your heater doesn't include a regulator (which controls the flow of gas and transfers pressure from the gas tank to the appliance) or a propane hose (which connects the heater and propane cylinder), you should invest in them separately.

You always want to choose a space heater that’s right for your specific space, and be sure to follow safety precautions. But, many modern propane heaters even come with additional safety features.

A good portion of ventless heaters come with oxygen depletion sensors (ODS) that cut off gas flow to the burner if oxygen levels in the room are not above safe levels.

Some machines also come with overheating protection to avoid fires. Others even have an automatic shutoff ability in case the machine tips over while being used. 

It's always important to be warm enough, especially when it's chilly outside. Check out more of our articles on different products to help keep you comfy and content!

Author: Lindsey DeRoche

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