Best 150 000 Btu Propane Heater Options for Large Spaces

This guide compares top propane space heaters and related high-output propane units to help you choose the right 150,000 BTU-class solution for garages, job sites, workshops, and outdoor areas. Below is a quick summary table of the five selected models reviewed in detail.

Product Type Output Range Key Feature
Dura Heat – GFA150A Propane Forced Air Heater Forced-Air Space Heater 120,000–150,000 BTU Variable Output, Fan Forced Hot Air
Mr. Heater MH170QFAVT 170,000 BTU Portable Forced-Air Heater 125,000–170,000 BTU Quiet Burner Technology, High Output
Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGD Forced-Air Space Heater 30,000–60,000 BTU Continuously Variable Output
Dura Heat LPC80 50–80,000 BTU Convection Propane Heater 50,000–80,000 BTU 360° Convection, No Electricity Required
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX Radiant Propane Heater 4,000–9,000 BTU Infrared Radiant Heat, Indoor-Safe

Dura Heat – GFA150A Propane Forced Air Heater, 120,000-150,000 BTU

Dura Heat GFA150A Propane Heater

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Type: Propane (LP) forced-air heater. Output: Variable 120,000–150,000 BTU. This unit is designed for large, open spaces where forced hot air is needed for quick temperature recovery.

Key Features

  • Variable Output: Adjustable between 120,000 and 150,000 BTUs for matching heat output to conditions.
  • Fuel Runtime: Operates approximately 14–18 hours on a 100 lb propane cylinder (manufacturer estimate).
  • Forced Air: Fan-forced distribution intended to move heated air across larger volumes quickly.

Use cases include large garages, construction job sites, and event tents where rapid warm-up and distributed airflow are required. Installation considerations include proper ventilation and following propane/gas safety guidelines.

Mr. Heater MH170QFAVT 170,000 BTU Portable Propane Forced Air Heater

Mr. Heater MH170QFAVT

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Type: High-output portable forced-air heater. Output: Rated 125,000–170,000 BTU. Built for heavy-duty outdoor and large indoor areas with ventilation.

Key Features

  • High-Output Performance: Delivers up to 170,000 BTU for very large workspaces and job sites.
  • Safety Systems: Includes high-temperature limit switch and thermoelectric safety valves.
  • Quiet Burner Technology: Designed to run quieter than comparable forced-air heaters to reduce noise on job sites.

Applications include large industrial or commercial settings, warehouses, and outdoor event heating. Ensure adequate fresh air and compliance with local codes for indoor use of high-BTU propane forced-air units.

Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGD 30,000 – 60,000 BTU Liquid Propane Forced Air Heater

Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGD

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Type: Medium-output forced-air propane heater. Output: 30,000–60,000 BTU with continuous variability to match load requirements.

Key Features

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  • Variable Output: Continuously adjustable BTU output to control heat delivery and fuel consumption.
  • Coverage: Manufacturer-rating indicates suitability for spaces up to about 1,350 sq ft under ideal conditions.
  • Portability: Smaller footprint than 150k-class units, easier to move and store.

This model suits medium garages, workshops, and job-site tents where a lower-capacity forced-air heater is sufficient. It is relevant when comparing modulation, efficiency, and distribution versus higher-output 150k-class units.

Dura Heat LPC80 50-80,000 BTU Propane Convection Heater

Dura Heat LPC80 Convection Heater

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Type: Propane convection heater. Output: 50,000–80,000 BTU. Designed for continuous, 360-degree warm-air circulation without electrical components.

Key Features

  • 360° Convection: Natural convective circulation for whole-room warming in enclosed spaces.
  • No Electricity Required: Piezo igniter and mechanical controls; suitable for off-grid or unpowered locations.
  • Run Time: Operates up to 17 hours on a 40 lb cylinder (manufacturer estimate).

Best used where continuous, quieter convection heating is preferred over forced-air blowers. Consider this unit for medium-to-large enclosed spaces that benefit from even ambient warming.

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX

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Type: Small radiant propane heater. Output: 4,000–9,000 BTU. Intended for personal or small-space heating up to about 225 sq ft.

Key Features

  • Radiant Infrared Heat: Heats objects and people directly rather than primarily heating the air.
  • Safety Enhancements: Tip-over safety switch and improved ignition safety features.
  • Portable Use: Compact design for campers, small workshops, and temporary indoor-safe applications where ventilation and guidelines are followed.

This unit is not in the 150k BTU class but is included for perspective on small radiant heaters versus large forced-air solutions when assessing heat type, portability, and indoor suitability.

Buying Guide: How To Choose A 150,000 BTU Propane Heater

Choosing the right high-output propane heater requires evaluating heat requirement, heater type, safety features, fuel logistics, and installation conditions. Below are focused considerations and comparisons to guide selection.

1. Calculate Heating Needs

Estimate the space volume in cubic feet (length × width × height). For uninsulated or drafty spaces, use higher BTU per cubic foot. A 150,000 BTU-class unit is intended for large open areas, high-volume garages, and job sites rather than small rooms.

2. Forced-Air Versus Convection Versus Radiant

  • Forced-Air Heaters (e.g., Dura Heat GFA150A, Mr. Heater MH170): Provide rapid warm-up and can push heat across large areas. Require careful ventilation and safety protocols for indoor use.
  • Convection Heaters (e.g., Dura Heat LPC80): Offer even, 360-degree warming, quieter operation, and better for enclosed, insulated rooms.
  • Radiant Heaters (e.g., Mr. Heater Portable Buddy): Heat people and surfaces directly and are efficient for targeted or occupied-area heating at lower BTU ranges.

3. Fuel Supply And Runtime

Check manufacturer runtime estimates and the cylinder size required. Large forced-air heaters often use 100 lb cylinders for multi-hour operation. Consider logistics of refilling, storage, and secure cylinder placement.

4. Safety Features And Certifications

Look for high-temperature limit switches, thermoelectric safety valves, tip-over protection, and any applicable certifications. For indoor or semi-enclosed use, verify manufacturer guidance and local code compliance.

5. Noise, Portability, And Installation

Forced-air units typically use blowers and may be louder than convection units. If noise matters, compare units with quiet-burner or low-noise designs. Consider handles, wheels, and overall weight for portability.

6. Ventilation And Indoor Use Considerations

High-BTU propane heaters often require adequate ventilation to prevent buildup of combustion byproducts. Confirm whether a heater is rated for indoor use and follow clearance, exhaust, and fresh-air requirements.

7. Output Modulation And Controls

Variable output or continuously adjustable BTU control helps match heat output to environmental conditions and conserve fuel. Consider units with reliable control dials or multi-stage settings.

8. Durability And Build Quality

For job sites and frequent transport, prioritize rugged construction, heavy-duty handles, and protective finishes. Look for steel housings and reinforced components that withstand rough handling.

9. Maintenance And Parts Availability

Check ease of access to replacement parts like igniters, thermocouples, regulators, and blower motors. Regular maintenance tasks include burner cleaning, regulator inspections, and leak checks.

10. Comparison Perspectives

  • Performance vs. Portability: Higher output units deliver more heat but are heavier and require larger cylinders.
  • Speed vs. Efficiency: Forced-air heaters heat faster but can use more fuel; convection heaters are more efficient for steady-state warmth.
  • Indoor Safety vs. Outdoor Capability: Some high-output units are designed for outdoor/job-site use only—match rating to intended environment.

Use these criteria to prioritize which features matter most for your application. Cross-reference manufacturer installation instructions and local regulations before operating any propane heater indoors or in enclosed spaces.

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