Propane Heater Myths

Debunking the Fear Behind Portable Propane Heaters

Propane heaters get a bad rap for being unsafe, unsuitable, and unaffordable. The truth, however, is the complete opposite. While a propane heater is not suitable for everyone, they are a very efficient heat source for a wide variety of applications. Continue reading as we debunk these common propane heater myths and see just how great these functional space heaters can be.

Myth #1

A Propane Heater is Unsafe, Period

True or untrue? Just like any space heater (or any electronic in general) a propane heater is perfectly safe to use as long as you follow its handling directions properly. Every propane heater is accompanied by an owner's manual for safety, proper care, and appropriate use.

These manuals are often available on the website before you purchase, meaning if you aren't sure about a certain propane heater, you can easily do a little research and find out. So in general, no, propane heaters are no more unsafe than any other space heater.

Myth #2

CMP and the Propane Heater

This myth has one foot in truth and the other in exaggeration. CMP, or carbon monoxide poisoning, is one of those warnings that opponents of propane heaters like to throw around. While carbon monoxide is a natural byproduct of using a propane heater, only very specific scenarios can lead to a dangerous level of carbon monoxide.

In the last 20 years, carbon monoxide poison has only accounted for 80 serious cases due to propane heater misuse. Compared to the dangers of electrical fires, this is miniscule. The problems occur when a person has not properly used his propane heater, usually using an outdoor propane heater indoors.

Proper ventilation is important with a propane heater to prevent oxygen depletion in the area. For this reason, most people choose to use them for outdoor heating. For more information on carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent it, please read our propane heater safety guide.

Myth #3

A Propane Heater is Inconvenient

This myth is completely false! One of the top reasons people buy a propane heater is exactly for its convenience and portability. Unlike all other space heaters, a propane heater does not limit you to a location near an electric power source. This means that you have a plethora of location choices to use your propane heater.

Since you aren't hindered by the availability of an electric outlet, a propane heater can be taken to construction sites, camping areas, patios, and more. As an electric alternative, a propane heater can be fueled by both propane or kerosene for added versatility.

Myth #4

Propane Heaters Only Work Outside

This is simply not true. You can find a propane heater for indoor applications quite easily with a little bit of searching. The thing to remember is that not all propane heater work indoors, just as not all of them work outdoors. Look for an indoor propane heater that has been certified for indoor use to maintain a high level of safety.

Myth #5

A Propane Heater is Slow to Heat

Many people assume that since a propane heater is a portable heater, it will take forever to warm a large area. The opposite is true for a true propane heater.

Propane heaters are very fast and efficient when it comes to heating large areas, such as a warehouse. The propane tank is attached directly to the propane heater for an average of 92 percent in energy efficiency.

With electric heaters, consider how the electricity must first be generated at a power plant by burning coal or through nuclear power, then transferred all the way to your individual home before traveling through the power cord to your space heater. All of this conversion results in wasted energy and depending upon the type of electric space heater you have, even more.

A propane heater delivers instant warmth to your surroundings. Since there's no chilling wait time for the unit to warm up, it's ideal for a busy work environment.

Myth #6

Propane Heater Fuel is Expensive

It might seem like you're paying more when you use a propane heater because you're physically present at the propane purchase transaction. However, did you know that propane is actually cheaper yearly than electric heat? With electricity, you are less aware of the amount of energy you're actually using. The transaction is invisible to you, thus out of mind.

With a propane heater , you can easily monitor the amount of energy you are using and thus control your heating costs.

Myth #7

No Safety Features on a Propane Heater

Just because a propane heater doesn't have a high-tech look doesn't mean it isn't equipped with modern safety features. There have been many notable advances in propane heater safety recently, most importantly the integration of the OD sensor.

An oxygen depletion sensor is equipped to help prevent the very misuse of propane heaters. To prevent CO (carbon monoxide) poisoning in enclosed spaces, the oxygen depletion sensor alerts you should oxygen levels become low or unsafe.

In addition, a propane heater will often come complete with a safety pilot light, and Piezo electric ignition switch for added safety. And that's just the newer advances; traditionally, a propane heater will have a safety grill, locking castor wheels, and an approved LPG (propane) regulator set for proper fuel attachment.

Myth #8

A Propane Heater is Ugly

Sure, propane heaters for construction sites and warehouses aren't the fanciest space heaters around (though are extremely efficient at their jobs) but that doesn't mean all propane heaters are unfashionable.

In fact, a propane heater for your home can be a great accent piece in your outdoor living area. Many private homes and trendy restaurants use a propane heater to warm their patios, but also bring an elegant flourish to the design.

You can find a propane heater in almost any size, from a table-top mini to a tall patio version. Propane heaters come in a plethora of different colors, such as Hammered Black, Copper, Silver, or Old World Bronze.

These sleek and stylish outdoor patio heaters make using propane a chic choice!

Propane Heater Summary

Propane heating is an excelling alternative to electric space heating. In addition to being economical, space saving, versatile, and fast, a propane heater is also a great back-up unit for any home or business.

If your electricity goes out in the middle of winter, how will you keep warm? A propane heater is a major advantage when the power is gone and you begin to freeze, as long as your area is well ventilated.