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10 Best Propane Heaters 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mr. Heater MH9BX-Massachusetts/Canada approved portable Propane Heater

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,155
BTU Rating
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
2223 reviews

BTU Rating
The heater puts out a lot of heat, effectively replacing multiple electric heaters.
Fuel Consumption
Running on a full 5-gallon propane tank, it can operate continuously for 3 days on the low heat setting.

The Mr. Heater MH9BX is a portable propane heater that offers a BTU rating ranging from 4,000 to 9,000, making it suitable for heating spaces up to 225 square feet. This makes it a good choice for small outdoor areas. One of its key strengths is its portability, featuring a fold-down handle and swivel-out regulator, which makes it easy to transport and set up.

It runs on propane tanks (not included) and can operate for up to 5.6 hours on the minimum BTU setting, which allows for extended use without frequent refueling. Safety is a notable feature of this heater, with an auto shut-off function that activates if the unit is tipped over, if the pilot light goes out, or if low oxygen levels are detected. This makes it a safer option for outdoor use.

However, it's important to note that the heater may shut off if used at altitudes over 7,000 feet, which could be a limitation for users in high-altitude locations. Additionally, the use of unauthorized accessories or attachments is prohibited and can void the warranty, which is something users should be mindful of. This heater does not require batteries and comes with a 1-year limited warranty. The construction of the heater includes steel, plastic, and nickel, enhancing its durability. Despite its strengths, it is designed for outdoor use only, limiting its versatility.

In summary, the Mr. Heater MH9BX is a reliable and efficient option for those seeking a portable heater for outdoor spaces, with strong safety features and good fuel efficiency, but it may not be suitable for high-altitude use or indoor applications.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,155
BTU Rating
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
2223 reviews

BTU Rating
The heater puts out a lot of heat, effectively replacing multiple electric heaters.
Fuel Consumption
Running on a full 5-gallon propane tank, it can operate continuously for 3 days on the low heat setting.
#2

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU Indoor-Safe Propane Radiant Heater For Campers, Workshops, Job Sites, Patios & More - Red, Black

Rating
9.8
Portability
Safety Features
Ignition Type

Most important from
30387 reviews

Portability
It's easy to use and surprisingly lightweight, making it convenient for various settings.
Safety Features
The heater's tip-over feature is great, especially around kids and dogs, enhancing its safety.
Ignition Type
The new pilot-lighting mechanism, now part of the main switch, works well and adds to the convenience.
Heating Area
The Portable Buddy gives great heat, providing the direct warmth of a toasty fire while warming the surrounding area with its vents.

The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX is a versatile propane heater designed to provide efficient heating for small to medium spaces, up to 225 square feet. With an adjustable BTU rating of 4,000 to 9,000, it offers flexibility in heating intensity, making it suitable for various environments such as campsites, workshops, patios, and indoor spaces like bedrooms or home offices. At 8.53 pounds, its fold-down handle adds to its portability, allowing easy transport and setup in different locations.

Safety is a strong point for this heater, featuring a reliable tip-over safety switch and a low-oxygen shut-off system, ensuring safe operation even if the unit is accidentally knocked over or used in enclosed spaces. The Piezo igniter provides quick and match-free ignition, which is convenient and time-saving. Fuel efficiency is respectable, with the heater burning just 0.044 gallons per hour at the lowest setting, allowing for up to 6 hours of continuous use on a small propane cylinder.

One downside is that it may require additional accessories, like an optional hose and filter, to connect to larger propane tanks, which could be an added expense. Additionally, while the heater is rated for indoor use, proper ventilation is crucial to ensure safety. Users will appreciate the convenience and reliability of this heater, although they should be mindful of the limited heating coverage and the need for appropriate fuel source management.

Rating
9.8
Portability
Safety Features
Ignition Type

Most important from
30387 reviews

Portability
It's easy to use and surprisingly lightweight, making it convenient for various settings.
Safety Features
The heater's tip-over feature is great, especially around kids and dogs, enhancing its safety.
Ignition Type
The new pilot-lighting mechanism, now part of the main switch, works well and adds to the convenience.
Heating Area
The Portable Buddy gives great heat, providing the direct warmth of a toasty fire while warming the surrounding area with its vents.
#3

Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy 3800-BTU, Indoor Safe Propane Heater With ODS & Tip-Over Protection, Heating Area Up to 95 Sq. Ft - Lightweight, Medium - Black/Red

Rating
9.5
BTU Rating
Portability
Ignition Type

Most important from
8310 reviews

BTU Rating
The heat output comfortably works very nice for a 4 person tent.
Portability
Compact, will fit in a small backpack.
Ignition Type
Easy to light was the selling factor for me.
Fuel Consumption
Pretty good run time on a 1-pound propane bottle.
Heating Area
It keeps my small office nice and warm.

The Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy propane heater is a compact and efficient option, delivering 3,800 BTUs which is suitable for small spaces up to 95 sq. ft. It's particularly useful for environments like tents or small rooms, operating well up to elevations of 7,000 feet.

Its portability is a significant advantage, weighing only 1 pound and equipped with simple on/off buttons, making it easy to use and transport. The heater runs for approximately 5.6 hours on a 1-pound propane cylinder, which is a decent runtime for its size. Safety is a top priority with features like an automatic low oxygen shut-off system and tip-over protection, offering peace of mind during use indoors or in enclosed spaces.

The heater operates quietly and without odor, enhancing its comfort level for users. However, it's important to note that this heater is not designed for use with motorized vehicles or unauthorized accessories. Users should also consider that while the heating angle and coverage are efficient for small spaces, it may not be adequate for larger areas. Additionally, the absence of a built-in ignition mechanism means users will need a separate tool to light the heater. Despite these minor drawbacks, its strong safety features and portability make it an excellent choice for emergency heat and various outdoor activities.

Rating
9.5
BTU Rating
Portability
Ignition Type

Most important from
8310 reviews

BTU Rating
The heat output comfortably works very nice for a 4 person tent.
Portability
Compact, will fit in a small backpack.
Ignition Type
Easy to light was the selling factor for me.
Fuel Consumption
Pretty good run time on a 1-pound propane bottle.
Heating Area
It keeps my small office nice and warm.

Buying Guide for the Best Propane Heaters

When choosing a propane heater, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best model for your needs. Propane heaters are versatile and can be used for various purposes, from heating outdoor spaces to providing warmth in indoor areas. Understanding the different features and specifications will help you make an informed decision and find a heater that meets your specific requirements.
BTU RatingBTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures the amount of heat a heater can produce. This spec is crucial because it determines how effectively the heater can warm up a space. Heaters with a lower BTU rating (around 5,000-10,000 BTUs) are suitable for small areas or personal use, while those with a higher BTU rating (20,000-50,000 BTUs or more) are better for larger spaces or outdoor use. To pick the right BTU rating, consider the size of the area you need to heat and how quickly you want it to warm up.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the heater from one location to another. This is important if you plan to use the heater in different areas or need to store it when not in use. Portable heaters are typically lighter and may have handles or wheels for easy transport. If you need a heater for camping, tailgating, or moving between rooms, look for a model that is compact and easy to carry. For stationary use, portability may be less of a concern.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Common safety features include tip-over protection, which automatically shuts off the heater if it falls over, and an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS), which turns off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low. These features are particularly important if you plan to use the heater indoors or in enclosed spaces. Always prioritize models with robust safety features to protect yourself and others.
Ignition TypeIgnition type refers to how the heater is started. There are manual ignition heaters, which require a match or lighter, and electronic ignition heaters, which have a built-in igniter for easy startup. Electronic ignition is more convenient and safer, especially in windy conditions or for users who prefer a hassle-free operation. Choose the ignition type based on your preference for ease of use and convenience.
Fuel ConsumptionFuel consumption indicates how much propane the heater uses over a certain period. This is important for understanding the operating cost and how often you will need to refill the propane tank. Heaters with lower fuel consumption are more efficient and cost-effective, while those with higher consumption may provide more heat but require more frequent refills. Consider how long you need the heater to run and how often you are willing to replace or refill the propane tank.
Heating AreaThe heating area specifies the maximum space the heater can effectively warm. This is usually measured in square feet. It's important to match the heater's capacity to the size of the area you need to heat. For small rooms or personal use, a heater with a smaller heating area (up to 200 square feet) is sufficient. For larger spaces or outdoor areas, look for heaters that can cover 500 square feet or more. Assess the size of your space to determine the appropriate heating area.

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