Tube-style fireplace heaters use metal tubes or burners to transfer heat from a fire or fuel source into a room efficiently. Below is a quick comparison of five relevant tube heater and tube-related replacement products selected for performance, installation scenarios, and compatibility.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Spitfire 6 Tube Fireplace Heater (Woodeze) | Wood Fireplace Tube Heater | Six heavy-gauge aluminized steel tubes, 2-speed blower |
| SunStar Garage Tube Heater SIR45-15-L | Propane Garage Tube Heater | 45,000 BTU, compact length for overhead installation |
| MENSI Propane Burner Kit | Propane Burner Replacement | Replacement burner and regulator assembly for patio/space heaters |
| MCAMPAS 1/4″ Flex Pilot Tube | Stainless Steel Pilot Tube | 24″ flexible pilot tubing for gas appliances |
| Furinno Turn-N-Tube With Electric Fireplace Insert | Furniture With Fireplace Insert | Turn-N-Tube furniture design; decorative electric insert (no heat) |
Spitfire 6 Tube Fireplace Heater
The Spitfire Fireplace Heater is built for small hearths and uses six heavy-gauge aluminized steel tubes to capture and distribute heat from a wood fire. The tubes draw hot air from the firebox and transfer it into the room while the included 2-speed blower increases circulation for faster warming.
Features listed for this unit emphasize efficient heat circulation and a compact footprint that fits smaller fireplaces. The blower offers a choice between a lower, quieter speed and a higher, quicker distribution mode. Manufacturer-stated output reaches up to 45,000 BTUs, which indicates strong heat potential for compact spaces like cabins, dens, or small living rooms.
Installation considerations include fitting the unit into the fireplace opening and ensuring clearance for the blower assembly. The aluminized steel construction aids heat transfer and corrosion resistance compared with plain steel tube designs. As with all wood-heating components, follow local codes and chimney safety practices when installing or operating.
SunStar Garage Tube Heater SIR45-15-L
The SunStar SIR45-15-L is a tube-style heater designed for garage and workshop spaces and runs on LP (propane). The unit’s overall tube design allows warm air to travel the length of the heater and discharge along the room for broad coverage.
Key features include a 45,000 BTU capacity, compact overall length (about 110 inches for easy overhead mounting), and efficiency ratings reported up to 84.5%. The design supports installation at heights starting around 8 feet above the floor, suited to typical garage clearances.
Tube heaters like this one require attention to fuel connection, venting clearances, and secure mounting. The compact footprint and higher efficiency make the SunStar option appropriate where a centralized furnace is unavailable or as supplemental heating for a workspace or detached garage.
MENSI 4 Bolts Propane Burner Kit
The MENSI 4 Bolts Propane Burner Kit is a replacement burner assembly intended for propane patio heaters and similar outdoor tube burners. It includes a regulator valve assembly, hose, QCC female connector, and mounting holes to attach to a heater plate.
Features emphasize a maximum heating capacity of up to 60,000 BTU for compatible systems and compatibility with 5–20 lb propane tanks. The kit is designed for DIY installation where the original burner has failed or when retrofitting a compatible heater shell.
When selecting a replacement burner, confirm thread types, connector compatibility, and clearance for the burner box. Propane burner kits demand careful leak testing, proper regulator use, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines and local codes for outdoor and covered installations.
MCAMPAS 1/4″ Flex Pilot Stainless Tube
The MCAMPAS 1/4″ Flex Pilot Stainless Steel Tube is a component product useful when maintaining gas-fired tube heaters, stoves, or fireplaces. The stainless flex tubing measures 24 inches and is sized at 1/4″ OD, suitable for pilot burner connections in many gas appliance setups.
Features indicate compatibility with LPG and natural gas pilot lines and use cases that include connecting pilot assemblies to valves and burners. Flexible stainless tubing is preferred for its corrosion resistance and ease of routing in tight installations compared with rigid copper lines.
Installers should confirm fittings and flare/flareless requirements for their appliance and ensure all gas connections pass leak tests. This item supports maintenance or repair tasks rather than acting as a standalone heating device.
Furinno Turn-N-Tube With Fireplace Insert
The Furinno Turn-N-Tube pieces combine lightweight furniture with an integrated electric fireplace insert. While the unit name includes “Turn-N-Tube,” the included electric insert in this model is decorative and does not provide heat, per the product features.
Two open shelves provide storage and the design aims for a contemporary look. This option is relevant when considering aesthetic alternatives to traditional tube heaters, or when converting a haven into a low-maintenance display hearth without combustion or gas connections.
For buyers who want visible flame effects without fuel or venting, these furniture-integrated inserts can be an appealing choice. If supplemental heat or tube-style heat transfer is required, select a unit explicitly rated for heating performance instead.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Tube Fireplace Heater
Choosing the right tube-style heater or related component depends on application, fuel type, installation constraints, and safety considerations. Below are key points to evaluate before purchase.
Heat Source And Fuel Type
- Wood Fireplace Tube Heaters: Use heat from a wood fire. Tubes and blowers capture and circulate radiant heat. Ideal for existing masonry or metal fireplaces.
- Gas/Propane Tube Heaters: Often used in garages, workshops, or outdoor spaces. They require proper gas connections, ventilation, and clearance.
- Electric Inserts And Furnishings: Provide flame aesthetics without combustion. Many are decorative only—confirm heating capability if needed.
Heating Capacity And Room Size
- Match the heater’s BTU or stated square-foot coverage to the area you intend to heat. Tube heaters transfer heat efficiently but clearance and room insulation impact performance.
- For supplemental heating, choose a unit sized to heat the occupied zone rather than the entire home.
Installation And Mounting
- Fireplace Inserts: Ensure the tube heater fits the fireplace opening and maintains required clearances for mantel and hearth materials.
- Overhead Garage Heaters: Confirm ceiling height, mounting brackets, and gas line routing where applicable. Tube heaters often require specific hanger spacing.
- Component Replacements: For burner kits and pilot tubing, verify connector types (QCC, flare fittings), length, and regulator compatibility.
Air Circulation And Blower Options
- Blowers increase convective heat distribution. Two-speed blowers offer quieter operation at low speed and faster heat delivery at high speed.
- Consider blower noise, placement, and power access when evaluating models for living spaces.
Materials And Durability
- Aluminized Steel Tubes are common for fireplace heaters due to improved heat transfer and corrosion resistance.
- Stainless steel flexible pilot tubing is recommended for gas line longevity in humid or corrosive environments.
Safety And Codes
- Always follow local building codes, venting requirements, and appliance clearances. Tube heaters can get very hot—maintain safe distances from combustible materials.
- Use certified components and professional gas hookups for propane or natural gas units. Leak-check all gas connections per manufacturer instructions.
Maintenance And Serviceability
- Wood tube heaters benefit from periodic tube inspection, creosote management, and blower cleaning.
- Replacement parts like burner kits and pilot tubing should be matched precisely to the appliance to avoid fitment and safety issues.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance Vs. Convenience: Wood tube heaters paired with blowers yield strong heat but need fuel and chimney maintenance. Electric inserts are convenient and low-maintenance but may not provide the same heating capacity.
- Installation Complexity: Garage tube heaters and propane burners require gas connections and professional setup. Firebox tube heaters are often simpler but must be sized to the opening.
- Durability Vs. Cost: Stainless and aluminized materials typically outlast plain steel. Replacement kits and pilot tubing extend appliance life when correctly installed.