The following guide compares five propane heater types suitable for indoor or sheltered use, including radiant, blue-flame, and multi-setting portable units. Below is a summary table of the selected products for quick comparison, followed by focused product sections and a detailed buying guide.
| Product | Type/Output | Key Safety Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX | Radiant, 4,000–9,000 BTU | Tip-Over Safety Switch |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF20LPT Blue Flame | Vent-Free Blue Flame, 20,000 BTU | Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) |
| Mr. Heater 4,000–18,000 Dual Tank Unit | Variable Portable, up to 18,000 BTU | Automatic Safety Shutoff |
| Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 Infrared Wall Heater | Infrared, Up To 30,000 BTU | Infrared Radiant Heat Technology |
| OKF Propane Heater Indoor/Outdoor | Portable, 6,000–18,000 BTU | ODS & Tip-Over Protection |
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX
Type: Portable Radiant Propane Heater. Output: 4,000–9,000 BTU. This compact unit uses infrared/radiant technology to warm objects and people directly rather than solely heating ambient air. It is rated for small indoor spaces such as campers, workshops, and patios when used per the manufacturer’s guidance.
Features include an improved tip-over safety switch and a durable piezo igniter for matchless startup. The radiant design provides sun-like warmth that is efficient for immediate localized heating. Recommended ventilation and adherence to indoor-safety instructions are important for safe operation in enclosed areas.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF20LPT 20,000 BTU Blue Flame
Type: Vent-Free Blue Flame Wall Heater. Output: Up to 20,000 BTU. Designed to heat larger rooms, cabins, sunrooms and garages. This unit distributes heat by warming the air directly and operates efficiently for sustained room heating.
Key features include an electronic thermostat control with battery-powered ignition, capability to perform at higher elevations, and a factory-installed Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) that shuts the unit off if oxygen levels fall below safe thresholds. Designed for permanent installation where vent-free operation is acceptable and code-compliant.
Mr Heater 4,000–18,000 BTU Portable LP Gas Heater
Type: Multi-Setting Portable Propane Heater. Output: 4,000, 9,000, or 18,000 BTU. This model adds flexibility with a dual tank connection option allowing use of larger propane supplies for extended runtime, useful for longer sessions in larger sheltered areas.
Operation is simplified with a single control knob and piezo spark ignition. Built-in safety includes an automatic tip-over shutoff. The unit is marketed for both indoor and outdoor use when safety precautions and local codes permit. It’s useful where variable heat levels and longer run times are required.
Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 30,000 BTU Infrared Wall Heater
Type: Infrared Liquid Propane Vent-Free Wall Heater. Output: Variable 6,000–30,000 BTU for up to 1,000 sq. ft. Uses infrared radiation to warm objects and surfaces before air, delivering a similar sensation to sunlight and efficient perimeter heating.
This model is designed as a wall-mounted solution for large rooms or open-plan spaces. It is liquid propane ready and offers adjustable heat output to match space requirements. As with other high-output infrared units, installation must comply with local venting and safety codes; fuel conversion is typically not permitted.
OKF Propane Heater Indoor And Outdoor
Type: Portable Propane Heater With Multiple Modes. Output: 6,000 / 12,000 / 18,000 BTU. Offers pulse ignition for reliable starts and a regulator/hose for connection to a standard 20 lb tank.
Safety systems include an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) and tip-over automatic shutoff. The unit is positioned for flexible indoor or sheltered outdoor use where codes and ventilation allow. Adjustable heat modes help balance fuel use and warmth for mid-size spaces up to approximately 450 sq. ft.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Indirect Propane Heater
This buying guide highlights the key considerations for selecting a propane heater suitable for indoor or sheltered spaces. Compare across heater type, output and coverage, and safety features.
1. Heater Type And Heat Delivery
- Infrared/Radiant Heaters: Heat objects and people directly. Good for targeted, fast warmth and areas where maintaining air temperature is less critical.
- Blue-Flame/Vent-Free Heaters: Heat the air in a room, providing uniform warmth for larger spaces. Check local codes for permitted use.
- Portable Multi-Setting Units: Offer flexibility of output and location. Useful for workshops, garages, and temporary indoor installations when allowed.
2. Required BTU And Coverage
Match the heater’s BTU rating to the volume and insulation of your space. Higher BTU units heat larger areas faster but may need permanent installation and code compliance. As a rough guide, estimate space heating needs based on square footage and ceiling height, and consider radiant models for spot heating.
3. Venting, Indoor Use, And Local Codes
- Vent-Free vs. Venting: Vent-free units do not require external flues but rely on interior air and built-in safety sensors. Many jurisdictions restrict vent-free propane heater use—verify local building codes.
- Indirect/Vented Options: True indirect (vented) heaters exhaust combustion products outside. These are preferred where continuous indoor air quality control is required.
4. Safety Features To Prioritize
- Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS): Shuts the unit down if oxygen falls to unsafe levels—important for enclosed spaces.
- Tip-Over Shutoff: Prevents fuel flow if the unit is tipped or knocked over—a must for portable heaters.
- Automatic Shutoffs & Flame Failure Devices: Protect against gas leaks and ignition failures.
5. Ignition, Controls And Usability
Piezo and pulse ignitions eliminate the need for matches. Thermostatic controls and multiple heat settings improve comfort and fuel efficiency. Consider models with easy-to-read indicators and accessible controls if frequent adjustments are expected.
6. Fuel Supply And Runtime
Check compatible tank sizes and whether the unit accepts larger tanks via optional hoses. Runtime depends on BTU setting and tank capacity—portable units with dual-tank or larger tank compatibility offer longer unattended operation.
7. Installation And Maintenance
- Permanent Wall Units: May require professional installation and compliance with clearances, venting, and gas connections.
- Portable Units: Require safe placement, stable surface, and adherence to clearance from combustibles. Regular inspection of hoses, regulators and seals is important.
8. Indoor Air Quality And Ventilation
All combustion heaters affect indoor air. Even units marketed as indoor-safe benefit from periodic ventilation or CO/combustion gas monitoring. Consider installing carbon monoxide detectors and following manufacturer ventilation guidelines.
9. Matching Heater To Use Case
- Workshops & Garages: Use units with higher BTUs or blue-flame models if allowed; ensure adequate clearance and mounting.
- Camping & RVs: Choose portable, certified indoor-safe models with ODS and tip-over protection; follow RV-specific installation guidance.
- Spot Heating: Infrared/radiant models are efficient for localized warmth without heating the whole space.
10. Comparison Perspectives
Compare units by operational range (BTU settings), safety systems (ODS, tip-over, flame failure), installation needs (portable vs. wall-mounted), and venting requirements. Consider long-term fuel costs and maintenance frequency when evaluating total cost of ownership.