Finding the right LP radiant heater means matching heat output, safety, and installation style to your space. Below is a concise summary of five propane radiant heaters selected for durability, coverage, and fuel efficiency.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Portable Buddy | Portable Radiant | 4,000–9,000 BTU, Piezo igniter, tip-over safety |
| Mr. Heater 30,000 Vent Free | Wall-Mounted Vent-Free | 30,000 BTU, radiant tiles, covers up to 1,000 sq ft |
| Mr. Heater MH18CH Cabinet | Cabinet Radiant | Hi-med-low regulator, automatic LOS |
| Mr. Heater MH540T Tank Top | Tank-Top Radiant | 45,000 BTU, 540° coverage, adjustable levels |
| Gasland MHA18BN | Portable Cabinet | 18,000 BTU, tip-over & low-oxygen shutoff, wheels |
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Mr. Heater Portable Buddy
This portable propane radiant heater uses advanced infrared technology to warm objects and people directly, simulating sun-like heat. Adjustable output ranges from 4,000 to 9,000 BTU, making it suitable for enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces up to around 225 sq. ft. The unit includes a durable Piezo igniter that provides spark ignition without matches or batteries.
Safety features include an improved tip-over safety switch designed to engage when the unit is shaken or tipped. Intended uses listed by the manufacturer include campers, workshops, job sites, and patios. The portable form factor and simple control scheme prioritize quick set-up and direct radiant warmth.
Mr. Heater 30,000 Vent Free
This vent-free wall-mounted radiant heater delivers 30,000 BTU of infrared-style heat using multiple burner tiles to heat objects and people directly rather than just air. The manufacturer cites efficient coverage for areas up to approximately 1,000 sq. ft., making it a common choice for cold rooms, additions, sunrooms, and cabins.
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Fuel efficiency details include a listed consumption of about 1.389 lbs per hour, providing extended runtime with a typical 20 lb LP cylinder. Installation requirements and local codes for vent-free heaters should be verified, as vent-free operation affects indoor air quality and may be restricted in some areas.
Mr. Heater MH18CH Cabinet
The MH18CH is a cabinet-style radiant LP heater offering simple controls with a hi-med-low regulator for variable heat output. The cabinet design houses the fuel tank, creating a compact footprint suitable for garages, workshops, or utility spaces.
Key safety elements include an Automatic Low Oxygen Shutoff System (ODS) and a regulator design that operates without electricity. Because it requires no power for operation, this model can provide heat during power outages, though ventilation and clearance guidelines must be followed for safe indoor use.
Mr. Heater MH540T Tank Top
The MH540T is a tank-top radiant heater designed to mount directly to a standard 20 lb LP cylinder. It produces high output levels with three adjustable settings: 45,000, 36,000, and 30,000 BTU. The 360° burner and 180° swivel bracket are engineered to provide broad radiant coverage for outdoor gatherings like tailgating, porches, and sporting events.
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Built-in safety protection includes a tip-over shut-off. The unit’s high BTU output and wide coverage make it suited for outdoor or well-ventilated spaces rather than enclosed rooms. The tank-top mounting simplifies deployment where a central portable heat source is needed.
Gasland MHA18BN Propane
The Gasland MHA18BN is an 18,000 BTU portable cabinet propane heater intended for ventilated garages, workshops, and construction sites. The cabinet houses the tank and includes rolling wheels and a carry handle for mobility. It is marketed for quiet operation and off-grid heating, as no electricity is required.
Safety features listed include tip-over shut-off and low-oxygen shut-off. The integrated regulator hose and included fittings provide plug-and-play setup with a standard 20 lb LP cylinder. The design prioritizes portability and space-saving storage of the cylinder inside the cabinet footprint.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An LP Radiant Heater
Selecting the right LP radiant heater depends on purpose, space, safety, and local regulations. This guide presents practical considerations and comparison perspectives to help match a heater to your needs.
Heat Output And Coverage
- BTU Rating: Higher BTU numbers mean greater heating capacity. Portable units often range from 4,000–18,000 BTU; tank-top and vent-free units can reach 30,000–45,000 BTU. Match BTU to square footage and intended use (personal spot heat vs. whole-room supplement).
- Radiant Vs. Convective Heating: Radiant heaters warm objects and people directly. For quick personal warmth or outdoor settings, radiant is efficient. For even room air temperature, consider convective systems or vent-free radiant with high BTU.
Portability And Installation
- Portable Cabinet And Buddy Heaters are convenient for moving between locations and require minimal installation.
- Tank-Top Heaters mount to a cylinder and offer high output for outdoor areas; they are not appropriate for confined indoor spaces.
- Wall-Mounted Vent-Free Units require secure installation and may need clearances; check local codes for vent-free appliance restrictions.
Fuel Consumption And Runtime
- Look for manufacturer fuel consumption rates (lbs/hr) to estimate runtime with a 20 lb LP cylinder. Lower consumption extends runtime at lower outputs.
- Higher BTU outputs consume fuel faster; choose a model with adjustable settings when variable runtime is needed.
Safety Features
- Tip-Over Shutoff: Essential for portable and tank-top heaters to stop fuel flow if the unit falls.
- Low-Oxygen Shutoff (ODS): Important for indoor use to prevent operation if oxygen levels fall.
- Ignition Systems: Piezo igniters avoid the need for matches or batteries. Verify ignition reliability and maintainability.
Vent-Free Considerations And Indoor Air Quality
- Vent-free (flueless) heaters release combustion products into the room. They offer high efficiency but can affect indoor air quality.
- Check local codes and manufacturer recommendations regarding vent-free use in bedrooms, tight homes, or areas with limited ventilation.
Durability And Use Case
- Workshop And Garage Use: Choose cabinet or portable units with robust construction and ODS protection.
- Outdoor Or Tailgate Use: Tank-top or open radiant units with high BTU and wide coverage are suitable outdoors.
- Residential Supplemental Heat: Wall-mounted vent-free radiant models provide room-sized supplemental heat but require installation and code compliance.
Mobility, Storage, And Size
- Consider weight, built-in wheels, and tank housing for storage-friendly designs. Cabinet heaters with internal tank compartments can improve aesthetics and minimize exposed cylinders.
Cost Of Ownership
- Factor fuel consumption, replacement parts (regulators, hoses), and potential installation costs for wall-mounted units. Higher BTU models can lead to increased fuel spend over time.
Comparison Perspectives
- Efficiency Vs. Safety: Vent-free units maximize heat delivery but require attention to indoor air; cabinet and portable units balance safety features for workshop environments.
- Coverage Vs. Portability: Tank-top and wall-mounted units provide larger coverage; portable buddy and cabinet units offer mobility at lower BTU ranges.
- Off-Grid Operation: Models that operate without electricity or batteries are preferred for outage preparedness.
When evaluating options, cross-reference manufacturer specifications with your space dimensions, ventilation status, and local codes. Prioritize models with the safety features required for your intended placement and use case.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.