Propane heaters are dependable, efficient, and inexpensive. Although they’re mostly used in sheds, sun porches, and open spaces, some use them as temporary heating solutions inside their homes.
But can you use a propane heater indoors? We’ve all heard of the dangers of mishandling propane and carbon monoxide poisoning, so being cautious is only fair.
The good news is, yes, you can use propane heaters indoors, but only if they’re designed for indoor use. Vented propane space heaters are especially safe and easy to install.
Read on to learn more about indoor propane heaters, including tips on how to handle propane heaters indoors!
Indoor Propane Heaters vs. Outdoor Propane Heaters
Propane heaters were initially designed for commercial and outdoor use. However, as consumer demand increased, several companies took it upon themselves to create propane heaters for indoor use.
Compared to outdoor propane heaters, indoor propane heaters feature an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) that automatically shuts off if your room’s airflow drops below a safe level. This greatly reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
CO poisoning occurs when an individual inhales carbon monoxide for excessive periods of time. Carbon monoxide gas is odorless and colorless, making it almost impossible to detect without a carbon monoxide detector. Large exposures can result in a number of health concerns, including arrhythmias, seizures, and in worse case scenarios, death.
Indoor and outdoor propane heaters have their own unique ways of handling the smoke they produce. Using an outdoor propane heater in a non-ventilated area is a serious no-go as it may lead to asphyxiation.
If you’re planning to use a portable propane heater indoors, make sure it’s identified as indoor-safe. Indoor-safe propane heaters are great for heating chilly garages, workshops, and small homes.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Indoor Propane Heaters
Indoor propane heaters have been dominating the alternative heating market as of late. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of propane heaters:
Pros
- They don’t require electricity to operate, therefore making them extremely cost-effective
- They don’t produce smoke, unlike other alternative heating sources
- They’re great for homes with open plan living spaces as they can quickly heat up large rooms
- They’re reliable sources of heat, especially in areas frequently hit by power outages
- They have a long life span as propane heaters can last for 15 to 20 years, making them an immensely reliable source of heat
- Their portable nature allows them to be carried on camping and RV trips
- They’re less expensive per gallon than heating oil
Cons
- Propane gas is combustible, so extra precaution is necessary
- Propane heaters require regular tank maintenance
- Monthly rental fee might be required if you don’t own the propane heater
- Propane tanks may take up a lot of space in your home
- Initial equipment and installation tend to be quite expensive
- Might be a health concern if used incorrectly
- Tank may be unsightly
Safety Measures to Follow When Using Propane Heaters
To ensure your safety, here are some key tips to follow when using an indoor propane heater:
- Make sure it’s installed on a non-combustible surface.
- Place the heater near an air vent, window, or any well-ventilated area to prevent gas build-up.
- Turn your heater off when you leave your home or while sleeping; don’t leave it unattended.
- Don’t use outdoor heaters as they’re for outdoor use only.
- Don’t spray deodorants, aerosol spray cleaners, hair sprays, and the like near a propane heater.
- Don’t place anything on top of the propane heater.
- Carbon monoxide detectors must be installed if you’re operating a propane gas heater at home.
- Propane tanks with over 100 pounds capacity should never be used indoors, regardless of their intended use.
On top of the above safety tips, it’s important to buy a propane heater of the appropriate size.
The easiest way to measure this is to multiply the room’s space in cubic feet by two (if it’s not very well ventilated) or by four (if it’s well ventilated). You can then use this calculation to determine how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) your propane heater should have for the area it’s heating.
If your indoor heater is burning yellow or orange instead of blue, contact your local propane service provider as soon as possible. When a propane heater has yellow or orange flames, this may be a sign of dirt build-up inside the heater and may cause gas leaks if ignored.
Factors and Features to Consider When Buying an Indoor Propane Heater
Propane heaters come in different sizes and heating capacities. Here are some of the most important factors to consider before buying an indoor propane heater:
Mounting Type
Indoor propane heaters can be wall-mounted, freestanding, or tabletop.
Wall-mounted and tabletop propane heaters are best suited for smaller homes. They’re typically four feet tall and can be placed out of the way if necessary.
Freestanding heaters, on the other hand, are about seven to nine feet tall. They emit the highest BTU out of the three and therefore have the capacity to quickly heat your room.
Heating Power
A propane heater heating power is measured by its British Thermal Unit (BTU). For every square foot, you need at least 40 BTUs. Therefore, a 100 square feet room requires a propane heater that emits at least 4,000 BTUs.
Safety Features
Safety should be your number one priority when buying a propane heater. Search for a heater that comes with an anti-tip feature, an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS), and an Overfill Protection Device (OPD).
Final Thoughts
As we continue to be plagued with winter storms and sub-zero temperatures, indoor heating has become more and more of a necessity.
Can you use a propane heater indoors? Yes, but only if it’s designed for indoor use.
Outdoor propane heaters can emit carbon monoxide that can be dangerous if inhaled for prolonged periods. Indoor propane heaters, on the other hand, feature an ODS sensor that automatically turns the device off if the room’s oxygen level drops to 18.5% or below. This, therefore, makes them safe for indoor use.