Quick Overview: This guide compares five propane area heaters suited for garages, patios, workshops, cabins, and job sites. Each model is chosen for its heating capacity, safety features, portability, or specialized design to match common area heating needs.
| Model | Type | Heat Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX | Radiant/Portable | 4,000–9,000 BTU | Indoor-safe radiant heat, tip-over safety |
| Mr. Heater 4K-18K Dual Tank | Variable Portable | 4,000 / 9,000 / 18,000 BTU | Dual tank connection, wide coverage |
| Gasland MHA18BN | Radiant Cabinet | 18,000 BTU | Cabinet design with wheels, built-in regulator |
| Mr. Heater Blue Flame 20K | Vent-Free Wall Heater | Up to 20,000 BTU | Blue flame vent-free for whole-room heat |
| DEWALT F332000 Cordless Radiant | Radiant Jobsite | 6,000–12,000 BTU | Battery-powered features, LED and USB ports |
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX
The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX is a compact radiant heater delivering 4,000–9,000 BTU with infrared-style, direct heat. It’s marketed as indoor-safe for ventilated enclosed spaces like campers, workshops, and patios. Key safety systems include an improved tip-over switch that emits an audible click when engaged, and an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) for low-oxygen shutoff. Ignition is handled by a durable Piezo igniter, requiring no batteries or matches. Manufacturer coverage suggests effectiveness in spaces up to 225 sq. ft. The unit’s portable design and adjustable settings make it suitable for spot heating of people and objects rather than whole-room convection heating.
Mr. Heater 3-Setting Portable LP Heater
This Mr. Heater model offers three heat levels (4,000 / 9,000 / 18,000 BTU) and supports connection to larger propane tanks (up to 40 lb) with an additional hose and filter. It’s designed for use in patios, sheds, and camp areas with an advertised range up to 450 sq. ft. The single-knob control with piezo spark provides straightforward ignition. Safety features include automatic shutoff in a tip-over condition and ODS where applicable. The variable output and option to attach a bulk tank make it versatile when both portable and extended runtime are needed.
Gasland MHA18BN 18,000 BTU
The Gasland MHA18BN is an 18,000 BTU portable radiant cabinet heater intended for garages, workshops, and construction sites. It integrates tip-over and low-oxygen shutoff protections and includes a regulator hose for direct cylinder connection. Notable design points are internal tank housing, rolling wheels, and a carry handle for mobility. Operation does not require electricity, which is useful for power-outage or jobsite scenarios. The model emphasizes quiet operation and space-saving cabinet styling while providing direct radiant heat suitable for localized area warming up to approximately 450 sq. ft.
Mr. Heater Blue Flame Vent Free 20K
The Mr. Heater Blue Flame 20,000 BTU is a vent-free wall heater designed to warm large rooms, additions, sunrooms, or cabins up to 700 sq. ft. It uses a blue flame convection pattern to heat room air rather than direct radiant heating. Features include a thermostat control for temperature regulation and a battery-powered electronic ignition. A factory-standard oxygen depletion sensor is present for safety. This unit is intended as a fixed installation and requires proper clearances and adherence to vent-free appliance codes and guidelines.
DEWALT Cordless Radiant Jobsite Heater
The DEWALT F332000 offers a cordless propane radiant design with 6,000–12,000 BTU output and an emphasis on jobsite convenience. It integrates ODS and tip-over protection and includes a high-velocity fan, LED light bar, and three USB ports that operate off DEWALT 20V Max or FlexVolt batteries (batteries not included). Runtime details indicate multi-hour operation with two 1 lb cylinders depending on setting. This model targets users who need portable, battery-assisted features alongside propane heating for campsites and work areas up to about 300 sq. ft.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Propane Area Heater
When selecting a propane area heater, consider heating capacity, heater type, safety systems, fuel connections, portability, and installation requirements. The following factors and comparison perspectives help match a model to specific needs.
Heating Capacity And Area Coverage
- BTU Rating: Match BTU output to the area. Small spot heaters (3,800–9,000 BTU) are suited for personal or small enclosed spaces. Larger outputs (18,000–60,000 BTU) target workshops, garages, or large outdoor patios.
- Heat Type: Radiant heaters warm objects and people directly and are effective for spot heating. Blue flame/vent-free models heat room air for whole-room warmth.
Safety Features
- ODS (Oxygen Depletion Sensor): Essential for indoor or enclosed operation to shut off fuel if oxygen levels drop.
- Tip-Over Protection: Required for portable units; ensures the unit shuts off if knocked over.
- Ignition Type: Piezo or battery/electronic ignition affects reliability and whether batteries are needed.
Fuel Source And Runtime
- Cylinder Size: Small 1 lb cylinders are highly portable but provide limited runtime. Many units support 20 lb or 40 lb tanks for extended use when paired with appropriate hoses.
- Dual Tank Or Bulk Hookup: Some models allow connection to larger tanks or dual cylinders for longer runtime and lower maintenance frequency.
Portability And Installation
- Portable Radiant/Cabinet Heaters: Often have handles or wheels and require no permanent installation. Suitable for temporary jobsite or patio use.
- Wall-Mounted Vent-Free Heaters: Provide fixed, whole-room heating but need professional installation, compliance with local building codes, and adequate clearances.
Use Case Comparisons
- Small Enclosed Spaces (tents, campers, small workshops): Choose compact radiant models with ODS and tip-over protection (e.g., Little Buddy or Portable Buddy).
- Large Garages / Workshops: Higher BTU forced-air or blue flame vent-free units provide room heating. Consider ventilation needs and code compliance.
- Outdoor Patios and Job Sites: Cabinet-style radiant heaters and forced-air torpedo heaters work well. For jobsites with intermittent power, models not requiring electricity are advantageous.
- Mobility & Extras: Jobsite heaters that integrate battery features, lights, or USB charging offer multi-function utility for contractors.
Noise, Efficiency, And Operating Environment
- Noise Level: Radiant heaters are typically quieter; forced-air units may produce fan or blower noise. QBT/quiet technologies reduce sound in some forced-air models.
- Efficiency: Radiant heaters can feel warmer at lower BTUs for direct heating tasks. Vent-free blue flame units claim high room efficiency but must be used per local regulations.
- Elevation And Temperature: Some manufacturers specify elevation performance limits; verify if you are at higher altitude to maintain safe operation.
Maintenance And Accessories
- Regulators and Hoses: Ensure included regulator/hose ratings match tank sizes and intended setup; certified replacement parts are recommended.
- Storage And Winterization: For seasonal use, follow manufacturer guidance for storage and winter maintenance to avoid regulator or valve issues.
- Replacement Parts: Check availability of ODS sensors, igniters, and filters for long-term upkeep.
Regulatory And Safety Best Practices
- Follow Local Codes: Vent-free appliances and indoor propane use may be regulated. Verify local building and fire codes before installation.
- Ventilation: Even with indoor-safe ratings, provide adequate ventilation and never operate unattended in tightly sealed spaces.
- Fuel Storage: Store cylinders upright, away from heat sources, and follow transport and storage regulations for propane tanks.
Final Selection Tip: Match heater type to the primary use—choose radiant portable units for spot warmth and mobility, cabinet or forced-air heaters for larger workshops or job sites, and vent-free wall heaters when whole-room, fixed heating is required and allowed by local code.