Propane heaters are a great solution when the power goes out, and you can always use it as your backup heating option.
However, you might wonder if they’re safe to use indoors.
Some people think they’re dangerous. An indoor-rated model can be used safely, but only with some ventilation and a carbon monoxide detector.
I have over five years of experience dealing with propane heaters, and I’ve prepared a couple of safety tips for you, but first, let’s talk about the overall safety of propane heaters.
Can You Use A Propane Heater Indoors?
This is the question I get asked a lot.
Yes, but only an indoor-rated propane heater, used with a carbon monoxide detector and a little ventilation. Never use an outdoor model indoors.
Regarding propane heaters, there are two types – indoor and outdoor models.
An indoor model is the right start; the tips below cover the rest.
On the other hand, if you’ve bought an outdoor model, don’t use it indoors. Look for a new propane heater made for indoor use. I always recommend getting a carbon monoxide detector for peace of mind at night.
I’ll cover more differences between these two models, but let’s keep you safe now with some helpful tips.
Tank size and heater BTU in, hours per tank and cost per hour out, at your state's propane price.
Propane Heater Safety Tips
1. Install a carbon monoxide detector (CO)
If I wanted you to remember just one tip from the whole list, this would be it.
I can’t describe how important it is to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
They’re affordable and can save your life because they notify you if CO levels rise.
Amazingly, such a small device can be so important sometimes.
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2. Leave a window open
Although you might think it’s crazy to open your window when heating your room, you should leave it open for just a few inches.
In this way, you won’t cool the room, and it will be enough for the room to ventilate.
The process is similar to garage heaters because garages can easily be ventilated.
By doing this, you’ll be able to heat your house with a propane heater for longer safely.
It keeps you warmer in the long run.
3. Tip-over safety switch
One of the most significant risks of propane heaters is the chance of tipping over.
It could cause fire easily and cause a dangerous situation. A lot of propane heaters already have built-in tip-over safety switches.
What it does is it automatically turns off the heater if it isn’t standing solely on the base.
This adds an extra layer of security to your home.
If you’re looking for a propane heater with this and other advanced features, you should look at Mr. Heater F232000.
4. Check for leaks
You should regularly maintain your heater and check for any type of leaks.
The first thing you should do is clean it once a month to keep it dust-free.
Next, look overall at all connections, hoses, cracks, and anything else that can cause gas to escape.
Helpful trick: with the heater switched off and no flame anywhere near, brush soapy water over the hose and the connections, open the gas valve and watch for bubbles. Bubbles mean a leak: close the valve and fix or replace the part before you light the heater.
5. Don’t use your heater often
This might sound awkward, but you should use the heater only when necessary.
This gives the room time to air out, saves propane, and keeps the heater off while you sleep, which is when you cannot notice a problem.
6. Turn off if you smell anything suspicious
While carbon monoxide is odorless, propane has a certain smell that sticks in your nose.
If you smell gas, turn the heater off at the valve, open the windows and leave the room. Don’t flick switches or light anything on the way out, and call your propane supplier before you use the heater again.
Although you might be overreacting, it’s always better to prioritize safety.
7. Don’t use any flammable spray
When the propane heater is running, you should never use flammable spray. This could be deodorant, hair spray, fragrance, or anything else that could be flammable.
You should either go to a different room or turn off your heater and air out the room before using these sprays.
You would be surprised at how often something as simple as this can cause a fire.
Differences Between Indoor & Outdoor Propane Heaters
The main difference is the label: an indoor-rated heater is built and tested for use in an enclosed room, and an outdoor heater is not.
Indoor models have a lower output, an oxygen depletion sensor that shuts the heater off if the oxygen level in the room drops, and usually a tip-over switch.
Outdoor heaters put out far more heat and burn far more propane, with none of those protections, so in a closed room they can use up the oxygen and fill the room with carbon monoxide.
I highly recommend that you check if your heater is made for indoor or outdoor use. If it’s made for outdoor use, the safest tip I can give you is to look for a new propane heater.
Also, you should look at an in-depth guide about propane heaters, where you’ll learn many more tips to help you stay safe and make the right buying choice.
Content writer from Croatia. Dominic studies Information Science at the University of Sarajevo, which helps him research and organize his work.
