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Best Portable Propane Heaters for 2023

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(Camp Addict does NOT accept payment from any company to review or endorse their products.)

So, you don't like to be cold, eh? (Smart!) Lordie, neither do we.

Whether you are camping in the cold or looking for a portable propane heater to provide warmth in your garage, there is a portable propane heater that's right for you.

Below we review portable indoor propane heaters that are suitable for use inside RVs or most any other enclosed space that needs some heat.

Portable Propane Heater Guide

Want to know more about indoor propane heaters? Learn the differences between the types of propane heaters and how they operate by reading the Indoor Propane Heater Guide.

Table Of Contents

Portable Propane Heater Reviews

Best Portable Propane Heater

Runner-Up Portable Propane Heater

Best Portable Propane Heater For High Elevations

Best Portable RV Electric Heater

Best Portable Propane Golf Cart Heater

Portable Propane Heater Purchase Considerations

How Long Will A Buddy Heater Run?

How Many BTU's Do I Need?

Refill 1-Pound Propane Cylinders Legally

Portable Propane Heater Reviews

Great as an RV furnace is, are times when it is more economical or just smarter to use some type of portable heater for RVs.

All but one of the portable camper heaters reviewed here are safe for indoor use.

This means that you may even use them in your workshop, bedroom, greenhouse, etc when you're not RVing.

Below, find what we feel are the best options for a portable camper heater.

We include a couple of indoor propane heater reviews, a nifty compact electric heater for shore power times, and a propane golf cart heater for those who tool around in one.

All but the golf cart heater are safe for indoor use (just follow the directions!).

If Not Used Properly, You Can Die

ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS follow the manufacturer's instructions when using an indoor propane heater.

Failure to do so can result in DEATH!

DEATH, people. Used with proper ventilation, and a healthy dose of common sense, they are safe.

Best Portable Propane Heater

Camco Olympian Wave

Pros

Functions at high elevation
Safe and effective
Can plumb to existing propane tanks
Silent portable gas heater
Comes in three sizes (BTU outputs)
Safest type of propane heater available (catalytic)

Cons

Creates humid air
Cannot set a temperature
Cost

The Camco Olympian Wave comes in three different sizes/BTU ratings. It operates with NO open flame.

These propane radiant heaters are arguably the most efficient and safest small LP heaters on the market approved for use in RVs.

Check Prices

Continue Reading Camco Olympian Wave Review

The Camco Olympian Wave Heater is a safe and very effective radiant heater for your house, garage, van, or RV.

We think it is the best indoor propane heater on the market.

A Great Catalytic Heater

What does catalytic mean?

Catalytic describes how it combusts.

Propane catalytic heaters differ from other propane heaters in that the propane is combined with oxygen to create heat on the surface of a hot platinum catalyst (a pad in the case of the Wave Heater).

Because of this, there is no flame at all once it has started to heat.

Weird, eh?

But it's true.

Closeup Of The Platinum Catalyst Pad

Yes, once the pad is lit, there is no longer a flame.

That makes it a 'flameless' and therefore very safe small propane heater for use in cramped areas such as RVs.

Very nifty for a little radiant propane heater!

The catalytic heating process creates a surface temperature of no more than 720º F.

This is well below the surface temperature of a propane heater with an exposed flame (upwards of 2,100º F).

The Piezo ignition switch makes for a quick and easy start.

Hence, there is no need to have additional heating devices to start it such as matches or grill lighters.

Therefore, that's another reason it's the best indoor propane heater!

Camco Olympian Wave catalytic propane heater igniter

High Elevations

Propane catalytic heaters work just fine at high elevations, unlike other types of portable propane heaters.

For instance, the very popular Buddy Heater line of heaters only work reliably up to about 7,000 feet.

This makes the Olympian Wave best for high elevations over other types of portable propane heaters for RVs.

Because it is so efficient, it barely uses any oxygen. Thus, there is no need for an oxygen depletion sensor on these heaters.

For this reason, they work much better at an elevation where the oxygen levels are naturally lower.

(THOUGH, you still need to head the manufacturer's warning and provide adequate ventilation.)

Catalyst Pad 'Poisoning'

First off, don't panic! The word 'Poisoning' used here doesn't mean you are going to get poisoned.

It is a term referring to the catalyst material on the heating pad becoming blocked by contaminates or being physically damaged.

As long as the catalyst material is kept intact (not physically damaged) and passes gas and air freely (not blocked by contaminants), it performs properly.

If the surface of the pad is physically damaged, perforated, or blocked, it may not function properly.

This is called catalyst pad 'poisoning'.

Catalyst pad 'poisoning' can cause reduced heat output and won't allow the propane to burn properly.

Reduced heat output isn't a dangerous condition (it just means you aren't getting the rated BTU output from the heater).

But incomplete propane combustion is something to be VERY concerned about.

It causes a risk of fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Even if you properly maintain your Wave Heater by ensuring it's covered when not in use and you don't attempt to clean the catalyst pad, it may still end up suffering from reduced heat output.

This is because trace amounts of contaminants are always present in the air and in propane gas.

These contaminants will 'add up' over years of use and eventually require catalyst pad replacement.

Wave Heater Size Choices

The Olympian catalytic heater comes in three sizes, each with a different BTU (heat) output.

Each one is designed to heat a specific sized space.

Choose the Olympian heater that's right for you according to the square footage of your RV interior space.

Camco's Olympian Wave Heater- 3 Sizes:

Wave 3 Heater (1,600 to 3,000 BTU - up to 130 square feet)
Wave 6 Heater (3,200 to 6,000 BTU - up to 230 square feet)
Wave 8 Heater (4,200 to 8,000 BTU - up to 290 square feet)

Wave 3, Wave 6, and Wave 8 Catalytic Heaters (L to R)

Safety Concerns

Can This Olympian Heater Be Deadly?

Listen up, this catalytic heater, like many RV space heaters, DOES run on propane.

Propane burning always consumes some oxygen.

So yes, it can become deadly IF, and ONLY IF all of the directions on your appliance are not followed!

Proper Ventilation IS Required

The use of indoor propane heaters requires proper ventilation.

They use up oxygen (this is what happens when a flame burns) and produce carbon monoxide (a deadly gas).

You MUST provide adequate ventilation (by cracking open one or more windows and/or overhead vents) when using an LP gas heater inside.

Camco states that the Olympian Wave requires a minimum vent area of 24 square inches.

They recommend using two openings to the outside - one down low and one high.

Followed correctly, using this propane heater is COMPLETELY SAFE.

Propane catalytic heaters are known for their almost 100% combustion rates. What this means is that they are very efficient at burning propane.

Why do we care?

Because the more efficient an appliance is at burning propane, the less byproduct (carbon monoxide) it puts out.

(Not to mention getting more bang for your propane buck.)

If damaged or not working properly, this device may emit some carbon monoxide.

Working properly, it creates virtually no carbon monoxide, making it very safe to use indoors, but you STILL NEED TO VENTILATE.

Camco Olympian Wave 6 catalytic heater in use

Why Do I Need To Ventilate?

You need to ventilate because all propane heaters burn oxygen and produce a small quantity of deadly gas (carbon monoxide).

Therefore, if you are in an enclosed space and don't ventilate the area, you could run out of oxygen and DIE.

This heater doesn't use much oxygen at all, but you STILL must ventilate.

Yes, you could die using ANY propane burning device if you do not ventilate properly.

With some, you can die from carbon monoxide poisoning or death by lack of oxygen.

However, if they are used properly, these heaters are not going to kill you from CO or asphyxiation.

The manufacturer advises venting, SO YOU MUST VENT. READ THE INSTRUCTIONS and FOLLOW THEM.

Be sure you HAVE a carbon monoxide detector in your RV and be SURE it's working.

Just FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER'S DIRECTIONS!!!

See? Warnings Are Listed RIGHT ON This Wave Heater. Pay Attention!

Olympian Catalytic Heater Manufacturer Video

Why Olympian Heater and Not Mr. Heater Buddy?

Buddy Heaters are an extremely popular propane camping heater and are the choice of many RVers.

So why would you choose an Olympian Wave Heater vs. a Buddy Heater?

First, Wave Heaters don't have a visible flame, unlike Buddy Heaters. Additionally, they have a lower operating temperature at their surface.

Also, Wave Heaters are slightly more efficient (burn less propane for a given heat output), but not enough that you'd notice a difference.

Best of all, an Olympian Heater will be more reliable at higher elevations since it doesn't have a low oxygen shut-off switch.

This is great for mountain lovers.

The Buddy Heaters are only good to about 7,000 feet elevation before they will potentially run into low oxygen issues, rendering them unusable.

Elevation Issues

Even the best propane heater will start to have issues if you go high enough. Propane heaters require oxygen to 'burn'.

The higher in elevation you get, the less available oxygen there is.

There is a point where ANY propane heater will stop functioning properly due to a lack of sufficient oxygen.

If you never plan on camping in the mountains, sure, it's totally fine to get yourself a Buddy Heater.

Kelly loves her Mister Heater propane heater, but she has had issues with her Big Buddy after having it for almost 4 years.

Camco Olympian Wave 3 catalytic heater in use

It was a good run, but it is having incomplete combustion problems on low. Therefore, it is not safe to run on that setting indoors anymore.

(Full disclosure- this is my (Kelly's) own fault for not knowing about and getting the fuel filter to use with my Buddy Heater unit when it was attached to an outside propane tank.)

Go With Wave For Long-Term Usage

Buddy Heaters are not as reliable as the Wave heaters in the long-term.

We know a few nomads who have had to buy a new Buddy (or something else) due to the failure of their unit.

We have also known people who have had a Buddy for YEARS without issue. So this is almost not an arguable point.

Yes, the Olympian Wave is more expensive than any Buddy Heater. But, cared for properly, it will cost less than having to buy multiple Buddy Heaters (if they fail during normal use after a few years).

Below is an excellent video by Bob Wells, a very well known and respected long-time nomad.

Here he talks about and supports the Olympian Wave Heaters.

We love his conversation about the Buddy Heaters not being as reliable as the Olympian Wave Heaters.

Still, Kelly and Marshall do love their Buddy Heaters as they still work.

Bob Wells Discusses Wave Heaters

Settings

The Olympian Wave heaters have three variable heat settings (Low, medium, high).

Unfortunately, they don't have a thermostatic control that lets you set a certain temperature you wish to maintain.

Instead, this is an on or off appliance.

Caring For Your Olympian Wave Heater

Yes, these small propane heaters are very durable.

However, they have one downfall if not properly cared for.

The platinum-infused pad which is the main heating element is VERY sensitive to damage from dust and other foreign matter.

Catalytic Pad Replacement

The catalyst pad is not field replaceable.

You need to return it to the manufacturer (or an appropriate repair facility) if the pad becomes damaged or otherwise doesn't function properly.

If taken care of properly, the pad will last many years.

More reason to cover it appropriately when not in use.

Wave Olympian 3 Catalytic Heater Covered

It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you cover it.

You can use something you make at home, or just get the cover built for the Camco Olympian heaters, as shown above, and further discussed below. (Kelly has two of these heaters now- and only one cover. So, she covers the smaller one with a trash bag when not in use.)

If not kept free from dust and other contaminants when not in use, the pad will discontinue working properly.

We highly recommend getting the fitted cover for your Olympian heater.

Wave Heater No-No's

Do not use a vacuum, water, or other cleaning methods in an attempt to keep the catalyst pad free of dust or other contaminants.

Doing so will physically damage the pad requiring replacement (you have to send it back to the manufacturer). When not in use, keep it covered!

Mount On Wall Or Keep On Floor?

You have options as to where to put your Olympian Wave.

You can purchase the optional legs and keep it on the floor, where you can point it towards where you want heated.

Or, you can also mount your Wave Heater on the wall.

Observe Proper Clearances

Even though Wave Heaters don't have a visible flame, they still operate at temperatures high enough to ignite flammable items on fire. Camco states you must have a minimum amount of space between the heater and anything combustible. Minimum clearances for all Wave Heaters: Top - 18 inches, Front - 30 inches, Sides - 4 inches, Bottom - 4 inches.

Wall mounting options include mounting directly to the surface or recessing it into the wall (requires cutting a hole, etc).

No matter which wall mount option you choose, follow the instructions in the Wave Heater owner's manual.

Camco Olympian Wave 3 catalytic heater back side

Back Side Of Olympian Wave Showing Mounting Holes

One RVer wrote a blog post showing how he mounted his Olympian Catalytic Heater to the wall of his RV.

It's mounted in a way that his catalytic heater can easily be removed for storage when not in use. (Photo of his mounted Olympian Wave Heater from the blog post below.)

Note the 90º propane fitting (sold separately) for keeping kinks out of this particular hose setup.

Olympian Wave catalytic heater wall mounted

Wave Catalytic Heater Wall Mounted (Note The 90º Connector - Sold Separately)

There are optional legs for floor use.

Follow the manufacturer's rules for mounting with regards to how far away to place it from objects.

Creative Mounting

We've seen people mount their small propane heater (Wave) inside of a cabinet door, which they simply open while the heater is in use.

Additionally, one person has it slide in and out of a pantry-style drawer on a track.

When slid back into the pantry, it's totally out of the way.

Olympian Wave Heater Accessories

Below are accessories for your Olympian catalytic heater.

The dust cover should be considered mandatory as it's vital to keep the catalytic pad free from contaminants to ensure a long life.

Whether or not you need the other accessories will depend on how you choose to mount your Wave Heater.

Olympian Wave Heater Dust Covers

If you have an Olympian Wave Heater, you need a dust cover.

Camco recommends you keep your Olympian heater covered whenever you aren't using it.

Why?

The catalyst pad (the part that creates the heat) must be free from contaminants or else it will suffer from catalyst pad poisoning and lose efficiency (and release unburned gas).

If keeping the Wave Heater covered when not in use is so darn important, then why doesn't Camco include a cover as standard equipment?

There are two different covers for each Wave model - one for use on wall mounted heaters and one for floor heaters.

Which cover you need will depend on which mounting method you choose.

Dust Cover

Select Size + Wall OR Floor Mount

Buy on Amazon

Floor Mount Leg Stands

If you choose to use your Wave catalytic heater as a freestanding unit (on the floor), you will need these legs.

They mount to the bottom of the Olympian Wave and let you place the heater wherever your propane hose lets you.

Legs For Floor Mount

Buy on Amazon

90º Propane Fitting

The Wave Heater comes standard with a propane 'nipple' fitting that points straight out the side of the unit.

Depending on how you choose to mount your catalytic propane heater, you might find it advantageous to buy this 90º fitting to allow for easier (less stress on the propane hose) propane supply line connection.

Wave Heater 90º Connector

Buy on Amazon

Download the Olympian Wave Heater manual here (PDF).

Camco Olympian Wave Heater Features and Specs:

Propane radiant heater
Catalytic combustion with no open flame (once ignited)
99.98% efficient
Three sizes (heat outputs) to choose from: Wave 3 rated at 1,600 to 3,000 BTU, Wave 6 rated at 3,200 to 6,000, and Wave 8 rated at 4,200 to 8,000 BTU
Room area heated: Wave 3 - up to 130 square feet, Wave 6 - up to 230 square feet, Wave 8 - up to 290 square feet
Use as a floor model or mount on the wall
Surface temperature of no more than 720º F, which is considerably less than RV propane heaters with an open flame
Heats 100-230 SF, depending on the model you get
Piezo spark ignition rated for 20,000 starts
No electrical/battery drain
Wave 3 (p/n 57331) dimensions: 11 3/4" High x 10 1/4" Wide x 3 1/2 Deep, 6 pounds
Dimensions for Wave 6 (p/n 57341): 17 7/8" High x 12 13/16" Wide x 4" Deep, 12 pounds
Wave 8 (p/n 57351) dimensions: 21 1/2" High x 15" Wide x 4" Deep, 14 pounds
1-year limited warranty

Runner-Up Portable Propane Heater

Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater

Pros

Can use with 1-lb propane bottles or hose connect to larger propane bottle
Produces up to 18,000 BTU of heat
Low, medium, and high settings
Low oxygen shutoff and tip over protection
Does not require electricity

Cons

Cannot set a temperature
Creates humid air - not a dry heat
Unreliable above 7,000 feet elevation

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater excels at creating a lot of heat and doing so FAST. It's a great option for boondockers that don't want to waste a ton of battery reserve by using their stock furnace.

Buy on Amazon

Continue Reading Mr. Heater Big Buddy Review

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy heater (model MH18B) is a very popular propane RV space heater for good reason.

My Buddy Heater is portable, produces a ton of heat through convection (and radiation), and merely sips propane.

The brand easily rivals the Olympian Wave heaters as the best indoor propane heater out there.

Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater

The Big Buddy portable heater is approved for indoor use in recreational vehicles as long as there is proper ventilation.

If you are using the 1-pound propane bottles, this camp heater is completely self-contained.

There is an option to hook it up to a larger remote (external to your RV) propane bottle for longer run times.

With two burner tiles, the Big Buddy portable heater has three heat settings: 4,000 BTU (per hour), 9,000 BTU (per hour), and 18,000 BTU (per hour).

This portable heater for camping uses a combination of convection heating and radiant heating to warm up a living space.

High Altitude Buddy Heater Issues

Mr. Heater says that above 7,000 in elevation the Buddy Heater (all models) may not work properly.

At these high elevations, your portable Buddy Heater may not burn as brightly as when you use it lower down.

Also, it may shut-off on its own. Lastly, it may not ignite (or reignite) at all. Why is this? The higher up in elevation you go, the less oxygen there is available.

A propane camping heater requires oxygen to create heat (by burning propane).

If there is insufficient oxygen, the burners might not have the same appearance as they do at a lower elevation.

Also, the oxygen depletion sensor might not allow for flame ignition at all.

Both Camp Addict Kelly and Marshall have used their Big Buddy heaters above 7,000 feet, so going above this elevation doesn't mean your heater WILL stop working.

It greatly depends on your local atmospheric conditions, so your mileage may vary.

If high elevation RV space heater use is a concern, consider the Olympian Wave, which doesn't suffer from these same high altitude issues.

Features

Equipped with a piezo style ignition system, the Big Buddy is easy to start up. It's a faster and easier process to start up than the Wave heaters.

As long as you follow the manufacturer's recommendations for use, it is a safe space heater for RV use.

There is a tip-over sensor that will shut off the heater if it is no longer upright.

Another safety feature is the oxygen depletion sensor (OPS), which will shut off the heater if there is insufficient oxygen (one of the reasons you need proper ventilation).

Big Buddy portable heater side compartment open

Big Buddy Left Side Propane Compartment

This Mister Heater portable heater has attachments for two 1-pound LP bottles, one on each side.

You can use either a single 1-lb propane bottle or use two at once.

You must use two 1-lb LP bottles if using the high (18,000 BTU) heat setting.

The small 1-pound propane cylinders won't go as far as using a larger propane tank will, but they are easier to use and require no additional purchase (no hose necessary).

To get an idea of how long a Buddy Heater will run on a given supply of propane, see how long will a Buddy Heater run feature below.

1-Pound Propane Bottles

All sizes of the Mr. Heater portable propane heaters can use the small green 1-pound propane bottles pictured below.

These bottles screw directly onto the Buddy Heaters.

While super convenient to use, these small propane bottles are intended to be disposable, which means you are constantly having to purchase them.

Plus, they don't last a super long time since they don't hold that much propane.

There is a way to legally refill 1-lb propane bottles if you like to use them but don't like the expense+all the waste they create.

If you use your Mr. Buddy portable heater a lot, consider purchasing a hose that allows you to use an external (remote) 20-pound propane tank (refillable and will last a lot longer than using 1-pound bottles).

When using the larger propane bottle, the tank MUST be located outside of your RV.

Below are 1-pound LP bottles you can purchase from Amazon. Seriously though, just go get them from some local store like Walmart.

They are WAY cheaper at Walmart. But if you have to buy online regardless... here's the cheapest set we found.

Online pricing is significantly more expensive (per bottle) if you buy them one at a time.

Buy on Amazon

Propane Tank Options

You can either use the small propane bottles, or purchase a hose to connect your Big Buddy heater.

You can either connect the hose to your LP lines in your RV (Kelly and Marshall both do this) or connect it to a supplemental LP tank OUTSIDE of your rig (This is a much more laborious method if you move a lot.).

Buddy Heater hose connection to propane tank

Diagram Showing Where To Connect Hose

Using the hose option, you can go for days and days on one 20-pound LP tank.

Of course, this depends on how cold the temperatures are at your location and if you need to run your propane RV heater day and night.

External Tank Limitation

The Big Buddy is the only one of the Buddy Heater series that has a quick disconnect fitting for external propane tanks.

While you can use an external tank, you will need to use a hose that screws into the built-in propane regulator on these small gas heaters.

Using the small bottles is more expensive and requires changing out of canisters much more often.

The small 1-pound bottles use the Big Buddy's built-in propane regulators (one in each propane bottle compartment).

If you opt to use one of the optional propane hoses, you may or may not be using the built-in propane regulator (more on this in the Buddy Heater Hose section below).

Big Buddy Heater built in propane regulator

Built-In Propane Regulator (One Each Side)

Square Footage Considerations

The Big Buddy heater easily heats up to a 450 square foot area.

Camp Addict Kelly used to use one in her 24-foot travel trailer which is about 160 square feet of interior space (It was a bit much).

Camp Addict Marshall also uses a Big Buddy heater in his trailer that is approximately 175 square feet.

Most of the time, Kelly leaves this LP gas heater on low, and it will keep her interior around 69-73º in temperatures ranging from just below freezing to around 40º or so.

VERY comfortable.

If it gets too warm, so then she just keeps a couple of windows wide open.

Proper Ventilation IS Required

Use of indoor propane heaters requires proper ventilation.

They use up oxygen (this is what happens when a flame burns) and produces carbon monoxide (a deadly gas).

You MUST provide adequate ventilation (by cracking open one or more windows and/or overhead vents) when using an LP gas heater inside.

Mr. Heater states that the Big Buddy requires a minimum vent area of 18 square inches.

Ventilate While In Use

Even though the Mr. Heater Buddy Heater has a low oxygen shutoff sensor, you have to vent your RV somehow to provide fresh air, usually by cracking a window.

Any burning of fuel will produce a small amount of carbon monoxide (and use available oxygen), so providing ventilation is VITAL.

Don't ventilate and you could DIE.

Understand? DEATH by your propane camping heater.

The manufacturer advises venting,

SO YOU MUST VENT. READ THE INSTRUCTIONS and FOLLOW THEM.

Also, be sure you HAVE a carbon monoxide detector in your RV and be SURE it's working.

Massachusets and Canada Buyers Beware!

In Massachusetts and Canada, the Buddy Heater line of portable camping heaters is certified for OUTDOOR USE ONLY.

They have different rules in these locations for certain indoor propane heaters.

You can buy versions of the Buddy Heaters for these locations with the only difference being the wording in the manuals and on the boxes and warning labels.

Here are the Massachusetts and Canada versions.

(You won't be able to buy/ship the regular versions to Canada or Massachusetts, you must order these special versions 🙂

Big Buddy (p/n F274865)

Buy on Amazon

Portable Buddy (p/n F232050)

Buy on Amazon

Hunting Buddy (p/n F232045)

Buy on Amazon

Little Buddy (p/n F215120)

Buy on Amazon

Potential Buddy Heater Issues- Incomplete Combustion

The Mr. Heater Buddy Heater should run smoothly and in total silence.

If it makes a flickering sound and has a flickering 'look' when running, this is likely a sign of incomplete combustion, That means that it is emitting larger levels of carbon monoxide.

Your portable Buddy Heater should have bright orange burner tiles.

It may take a few minutes after the initial startup to reach this bright orange appearance, but that is the 'look' your small radiant heater should have.

If the burner tile(s) don't have this bright orange appearance, something is wrong with the combustion.

DO NOT run your Mr. Buddy Heater if the burner tile(s) are experiencing any sort of incomplete combustion!

Instead, contact the manufacturer for further help.

Other signs to look out for that your Buddy (or any propane space heater) is not combusting properly:

Burning eyes
Flame that is not the color specified in the operating manual
Noise coming from the unit/flickering flame

In the event that any of this is happening, something is wrong and the propane gas heater needs troubleshooting by a professional.

Just remember, even though the Buddy propane heater has tip over protection (shutoff) and low oxygen shut-off devices, this does not mean that things cannot go wrong.

It's a heater. It gets hot and can experience operational issues.

Don't Catch Fire!

Because the Big Buddy portable heater produces a flame, it can catch things on fire.

Mr. Heater states you must have a minimum amount of space between the heater and anything combustible.

Minimum clearances (applies to all Buddy propane heater sizes): Top - 30 inches, Front - 24 inches, Sides - 6 inches.

It's Hot!

Yes, there are opportunities to burn yourself. Or, a toddler could touch it in the wrong place.

So, be aware of your situation and where you place it and who/what can get to it.

Practice common sense and either don't get this kind of propane space heater or keep it in a location where nothing can get to it where it can do harm.

Caution With Pets!

One evening Kelly's furry dog Trixie stood with her butt to the Buddy Heater for too long.

Her hair singed, and we don't even want to imagine what else could have happened if Kelly wasn't there to move Trixie before it may have been too late!

Therefore, we can NOT recommend using RV space heaters while you are away, especially if you have pets.

Why The Fan?

The Big Buddy heater has a place to plug in a power cord. What's that for?

Well, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater has a blower fan at the top (It's the ONLY Buddy heater with a fan).

The fan helps circulate the hot air to maximize warmth in the room.

Yes, the Buddy heater can be used without using the fan. Neither Kelly or Marshall ever use theirs.

The fan is run off of 4 size D batteries or from 120V power, using an optional A/C power cord.

There are also other versions of the Buddy Heater designed for smaller spaces.

If you have a smaller area you need to heat, or just want a more compact propane room heater, one of the other Buddy Heaters may do the trick for you.

Check out the other Buddy Heater sizes below.

All About The Big Buddy Heater

Big Buddy Heater Cleaning And Maintenance

Download the Big Buddy Heater manual here (PDF).

Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater Features and Specs:

Mr. Heater model number MH18B
Propane indoor heater (not for use indoors in Massachusetts or Canada)
Three heat settings: 4,000, 9,000 or 18,000 BTU per hour
Can heat up to a 450 square foot area
Indoor safe (not for use indoors in Massachusetts or Canada)
Piezo spark mechanism to ignite pilot flame
Automatic low-oxygen sensor shut off (ODS or oxygen depletion sensor)
Tip over protection (will automatically shut-off)
Fan runs on 4 D-cell batteries or AC adapter (sold separately)
Propane Supply: One or two 1-pound propane canisters OR connects to a remote 20-pound LP tank with hose (sold separately)
Weighs 17.1 lbs
Dimensions (approximate): 16.5" Tall x 17" Wide x 11" Deep
May not perform well in elevations over 7,000 feet
1-year limited warranty

Other Buddy Heater Size Options

The Mr. Heater brand of portable propane heaters also has smaller sizes of the My Buddy Heater series.

Little Buddy Heater

There's the Little Buddy heater, the Portable Buddy heater, and the Hunting Buddy heater.

The Little Buddy heater (model MH4B) 'sits' right on top of a 1-pound propane bottle, making for a very compact small gas heater.

This mini propane heater has a single heat setting (3,800 BTU/hour) and is designed for spaces up to 95 square feet.

Little Buddy Heater

Buy on Amazon

Download the Little Buddy Heater manual here (PDF).

Portable Buddy Heater

The Portable Buddy heater (model MH9BX) uses a single 1-pound propane cylinder.

You have the option to instead use a 20-pound propane tank (located outside your RV) that requires the purchase of a propane hose.

With two heat settings (4,000 and 9,000 BTU/hour), the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy heater can heat up to 225 square feet of space.

Portable Buddy Heater

Choose Color

Buy on Amazon

Download the Portable Buddy Heater manual here (PDF).

Hunting Buddy Heater

The Hunting Buddy heater (model MH12HB) is very similar in appearance to the Portable Buddy heater, with a few key differences.

The Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy has two heat setting with a bit more output (6,000 and 12,000 BTU/hour).

It has a storage compartment that can store a spare 1-lb LP cylinder (it uses a single 1-lb LP bottle at a time).

Also, the Hunting Buddy heater uses a pulse ignition system (requires a AA battery) instead of the piezo system all other portable Buddy heaters use.

The Mr. Heater Hunter Buddy can heat up to 300 square feet of space.

It has a camouflage color scheme that befits its name.

It too has the option to use an external propane tank if you purchase the optional propane hose.

Hunting Buddy Heater

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Download the Hunting Buddy Heater manual here (PDF).

Buddy Heater Propane Hoses

If you don't want to use the disposable 1-pound propane bottles with your Buddy propane heater, purchase an optional Mr. Buddy Heater hose to use with a larger propane tank (up to 20-pound size).

We feature the two most popular Buddy Heater hoses below.

One is only for use with the Big Buddy Heater and features a quick disconnect fitting.

The other one can be used with any of the Buddy Heaters that accept an external propane hose (every one but the Little Buddy Heater).

Propane Tank Warning

If you are using an external propane tank, the tank must be located outside of the living space/your RV.

Only the 1-pound propane tanks are allowed to be inside the space that is being heated.

Big Buddy Heater Hose With Regulator & Quick Disconnect

This Big Buddy Heater Hose (p/n F271803) has a quick connect end that connects to the quick disconnect fitting inside the right propane compartment (pictured below).

Using this hose bypasses the built-in propane pressure regulator.

The Big Buddy is the only one of the Mr. Heater Buddy Heater line that has this quick disconnect fitting.

Therefore, this hose is ONLY compatible with the Big Buddy.

Big Buddy Quick Disconnect In Use

The end of this Big Buddy Heater hose that attaches to the external propane tank has a pressure regulator built-in.

You do not need to use a fuel filter with this hose. Hose is 12 feet in length.

Big Buddy Heater Hose With Regulator

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Buddy Heater Series Propane Hose

The Buddy Heater Series propane hose (p/n F272704) is compatible with all Buddy Heaters that can be used with an external propane tank (which means all but the Little Buddy).

Because this Buddy Heater hose doesn't have a propane pressure regulator, it uses the built-in regulator.

On the Buddy Heater side, you simply screw one end of the hose into the built-in pressure regulator.

The other end goes directly into the external propane tank.

The Big Buddy Heater has two built-in pressure regulators (one in each side propane compartment).

You can use the hose on either side. Hose is 10 feet in length.

Buddy Heater Series Hose

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Buddy Heater Accessories

Buddy Heater Fuel Filter

The Buddy Heater Fuel Filter is used when you are using an external propane tank (not the 1-lb propane canisters) and CERTAIN propane hoses.

It is designed to remove contaminants that can potentially harm your Buddy Heater.

These contaminants leach out of certain propane hoses when exposed to high pressure propane.

The propane hoses (part numbers F271803 and F273704) featured in this review do not require the use of a fuel filter.

Only when you are 'pushing' high-pressure (non-regulated) propane through other hoses do you possibly need a fuel filter.

A good rule of thumb is if you are utilizing the Buddy Heater's built-in propane regulator (which means there is high-pressure propane in the propane line) then you need a fuel filter.

(Again, not necessary if you are using the non-regulated 'Buddy Series Hose' p/n F273704.)

If you don't use a fuel filter, you will learn, like Kelly did, that your Buddy will start to have problems with incomplete combustion.

Therefore, the Buddy Heater Fuel Filter needs to be replaced annually.

Fuel Filter

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Buddy Heater Carry Bags

If you use your buddy heater inside your home as well as in your RV, or you don't use it much, you may want a storage bag/carry case for it.

It carries the heater plus a propane hose and two 1-pound propane canisters.

Buddy Heater carry bags come in two sizes - one for the Big Buddy portable heater and one for the Portable Buddy Heater.

Big Buddy Carry Tote

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Portable Buddy Carry Tote

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Big Buddy Heater Power Adapter

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater has a built-in fan that can be used to help distribute the heat it produces.

The fan can run off 4 D-cell batteries or an optional AC power adapter (part number F276127) that plugs into a 110-volt outlet.

The power adapter provides 6 volts of power to the Big Buddy Heater fan.

The Big Buddy heater is the only Mr. Heater portable propane heater with a built-in fan. The use of this fan is optional.

Neither Kelly nor Marshall use this fan when they use their Big Buddy heaters.

A/C Adapter For Big Buddy

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Best Portable Propane Heater For High Elevations

Camco Olympian Wave Heater

Pros

Less performance degradation at altitude than the competition

Cons

The Camco Olympian Wave Heater performs better at higher elevations than the Mr. Heater Buddy Heater does.

If you spend a lot of time at altitude (above 7,000 feet), this is the propane RV heater you should take a hard look at.

Read the complete Camco Olympian Wave Heater review above for complete details.

Best Portable RV Electric Heater

pureHeat SNUG

Green Tech PureHeat heater next to outlet

Pros

Never hot to the touch and automatic shut-off timer
Won't take up valuable counter or floor space
Comes with power cord if you can't plug unit directly into an outlet
Able to set temperature

Cons

A touch pricey

There are many choices when it comes to electric RV heaters.

We like the pureHeat SNUG electric heater since it won't sacrifice any floor or counter space. It's well under 1200 Watts, making it safe to use in your RV.

Buy on Amazon

Continue Reading PureHeat SNUG RV Electric Heater Review

Many Electric Heaters Will Suffice

There are a 'zillion' RV electric heaters out there.

Most of them probably do a pretty good job, so this category was pretty tough to choose a winner.

In reality, there are many regular electric heaters that will work fine in your RV.

Then Why The pureHeat SNUG Heater?

Still, we did some research and found the pureHeat Snug is one of the best electric heater for RVs.

This compact little RV space heater is unique in that it can be plugged directly into your wall outlet, effectively keeping it off of the floor or counter (Floor space is at a premium in RVs).

Also, it can be used as a regular heater with a power cord if you don't have an outlet that would work.

This is great as RVs aren't known for their enormous sizes and storage capacities.

You don't have to sacrifice floor space or counter space to use this little gem! We also picked this one because it is only a 1000-watt heater.

If you have already read our guide, you know that it can be dangerous to use a heater in a camper that uses over 1200 watts of power.

This heater also has a Safe-t-touch housing and heater grill, so it is never hot enough to burn you, your kids, or your pet in such a small space.

The pureHeat SNUG has a 1000W maximum PTC (Positive Thermal Coefficient) heating element.

Therefore, it provides more heat than most heaters of this size and is purported to be more efficient while eliminating the possibility of getting burned.

Features

This portable electric heater will shut off after a pre-programmed time so you don't have to worry about forgetting to turn it off when you leave.

Also, the pureHeat SNUG heater won't hog outlet space as it provides two additional receptacles on the sides.

To avoid outlet overload, do not plug in and use anything that pulls a lot of amps, such as another space heater.

The auxiliary plugs on the side of the SNUG are rated at 5 amps combined.

Only for use with three-prong outlets and cannot be used with GFCI outlets, horizontal outlets, or outdated, worn outlets.

But I Can't I Use Just About Any Electric Heater?

Sure!

Just keep it under 1200 watts, and remember that you probably don't have much floor space or counter space, so get something that isn't very large.

Again, to emphasize the importance of this, please only buy an RV electric heater that is rated at 1200W or under.

That said, we think that this RV electric heater would work very well for most rig types.

If it's not for you, check out the other (1200 watt and under) electric heaters on Amazon or in your local store.

If you go Amazon, don't forget to check the website "Fakespot" to see if the reviews are legit or if they are fake.

There were a TON of reviewed items for sale on Amazon, ranked very highly, that got 'F' scores on Fakespot.

Download the pureHeat SNUG electric RV heater manual here (PDF).

pureHeat SNUG RV Electric Heater Features and Specs:

Infrared RV electric heater
Can plug directly into wall outlet (taking up no floor space) or can be used freestanding with included cord
Heat output: 3500 BTU from a 1000-watt heating element
Can heat up to a 650 square foot area
Safe-to-Touch housing and heater grill
Adjustable from 60-90 degrees Fahrenheit
Automatic shut-off timer
Low and high fan speeds
2 auxiliary side power outlets (5 amps maximum)
Dimensions: 14" High x 4.75" Wide x 5" Deep, weighs 3.3 pounds
1-Year limited warranty (limited lifetime warranty on heating element)

Best Portable Propane Golf Cart Heater

Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater

Pros

Can use in golf cart or elsewhere outdoorsy
Multiple safety features
Wind resistant burner

Cons

May not fit your cupholder - check size
NOT for indoor use

Why be cold in the golf cart you use to get around the RV park or the golf course?

This heater is affordable and will run for up to 5.5 hours on a single 1-pound propane bottle.

For outdoor use only. Don't use it inside your RV or other enclosed building.

Buy on Amazon

Continue Reading Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater Review

Stay Cozy In Your Golf Cart!

This is a great little propane space heater to keep you warm in your golf cart.

Because it's radiant heat, even if you don't have a covered interior, it can keep you warm when pointed at you.

Radiant heat works very much like sunlight. You need to be 'in' the rays in order to feel the majority of the heat.

However, for best performance, it's better to have a canopy cover for your golf cart.

The Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater has a piezo ignition button (doesn't use electricity).

It is equipped with a wind-resistant screen over the burner so it won't blow out in a breeze.

More Features/Info

A one-pound propane bottle screws directly onto this propane heater.

Run time on a full 1-lb LP bottle is approximately 5.5 hours.

This heater is not for indoor use as the tip over switch (because golf carts go up and over hills frequently) is set to 90 degrees and will only shut off if a total tip over event happens.

In a home, the heater could tip over and land on something, say, at a 45-degree angle.

At that angle, it wouldn't shut off.

In such a case, it could land leaning against something flammable and could start a fire. Therefore, this portable propane heater is not for use indoors.

Don't Catch Fire!

Because this portable propane heater produces a flame, it can catch things on fire.

Mr. Heater states you must have a minimum amount of space between the heater and anything combustible.

Minimum clearances: Top - 24 inches, Front - 18 inches, Sides - 6 inches.

The Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater comes with a cup holder adapter that will work with most cup holders.

You simply set the heater in an available cup holder and aim it in the direction you want the heat to go.

Cup Holder Bottom Showing How It Pushes Out For Stability

Download the Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater manual here (PDF).

Golf Cart Enclosure

Putting an enclosure over your golf cart will keep the wind out AND keep your heat in from your Buddy Heater.

Consider getting on for your comfort on those extra cold days.

Find The Cover That Will Work On Your Cart

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Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater Features and Specs:

Radiant heater (for outdoor use only)
Mr. Heater model number MH4GC
Wind resistant protective screen for burner
4000 BTU's per hour of heat output
For use with a 1-lb propane cylinder (up to 5.5 hours of use per tank)
Safety tip-over switch (90 degree)
Piezo ignition button
ODS (oxygen depletion sensor) low oxygen shut-off system
No electricity required
Dimensions: 12" Long x 9.75" Wide, weighs 6 pounds
1-year limited warranty

Portable Propane Heater Purchase Considerations

In addition to what you can learn by reading our Indoor Propane Heater Guide, below are a few things to consider when it comes time to purchase your portable propane heater.

How Long Will A Buddy Heater Run?

Do you want to know how long a Big Buddy Heater will run on a 20-lb tank? Or how long a Little Buddy Heater will run on a 1-pound propane canister?

Or for that matter, you may wonder long any of the Buddy Heaters will run on a given supply of propane before you have to worry about your fingers and toes becoming numb.

How long a Buddy Heater will run depends on two things - supply (of propane) and demand (how long you have it on).

Can we get a 'duh!'?

Oh, you wanted specifics? Not satisfied with that really vague answer?

Read on...

Read the complete Buddy Heater review to learn more about these portable heaters.

The below chart is based on data published in the various Buddy Heater owner's manuals and the Mr. Heater website.

Don't take these run times as gospel. They are only an approximate range.

If your Mr. Heater Big Buddy run time doesn't match the times listed below, then that's just how life goes.

It will pay to have way more fuel on hand than you think will be necessary, if you are in deadly cold temperatures.

In other words, your mileage may (and most likely will) vary.

The Cold Air Effect

Run times can be significantly reduced in temperatures below 20º F.

(This won't apply if the outside temps are below 20º but your 1-lb propane cylinder is inside in relative warmth.)

The reduced run time at low temperatures has to do with LP gas properties when the gas is cooled below a certain point.

Buddy Heater Model	Propane Source	Run Time*
Big Buddy (MH18B)	One 1-lb Cylinder	1.5 to 6 hours
	Two 1-lb Cylinders	3 to 12 hours
	20-lb Tank	25 to 110 hours
Portable Buddy (MH9BX)	1-lb Cylinder	2.4 to 5.4 hours
	20-lb Tank	48 to 110 hours
Hunting Buddy (MH12HB)	1-lb Cylinder	1.5 to 3.5 hours
	20-lb Tank	36 to 72 hours
Little Buddy (MH4B)	1-lb Cylinder	5 hours

* Depends on heat setting. If there are multiple heat settings for a particular Buddy Heater model, then the run time will be expressed in a range with the shortest time being the highest heat setting and the longest time being the lowest heat setting.

How Many BTU's Do I Need?

Below is a way to quickly approximate the amount of BTU's (heater heat output) you will need for your space.

You can use this with the manufacturers recommended maximum square footage to figure out what size heater you should purchase.

Warning- Math! Haha.

You can calculate the amount of BTUs required by using the following method:

Measure the space’s dimension to determine cubic feet: Length x Width x Height = Cubic Feet
Subtract the outside temperature from the desired inside temp to determine the temperature increase (either in Fahrenheit or Celsius).
Calculate the approximate BTU requirements using either the Fahrenheit or Celsius formula below:

Fahrenheit Calculation: Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase (in Fahrenheit) x .133 = Required BTUs

Celsius Calculation: Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase (in Celsius) x .2394 = Required BTUs

Again, this is just an estimate.

The construction quality of the area you are trying to heat will play a large factor in how many BTUs you need.

A cheaply built RV with zero insulation will require a larger heater than a quality rig actually built for cold weather.

Refill 1-Pound Propane Cylinders Legally

The Buddy Heater line of portable propane heaters can run off the small (normally green in color) 1-pound propane bottles.

You know, the kind that are a few bucks at the local store and you toss when you're done. Because they cannot be refilled.

Yep, they normally are not supposed to be refilled and then traveled with. Yes, we know people do it all the time. People do a lot of stuff all the time that isn't 'right'.

**Insert eye-roll here**

Flame King Refillable Propane Cylinder Kit

Refill Kit

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Fear not! There is a legal way to safety refill 1-lb propane cylinders.

The Flame King 1-lb Refillable Cylinder Refill Kit comes with a stand, a refill adapter, and a single refillable 1-lb propane bottle (you can purchase additional ones).

Extra Cylinder

Buy on Amazon

If you want to save money in the long run by not purchasing relatively expensive disposable 1-pound propane cylinders, consider the Flame King refill kit.

Legally Refill 1-Pound Propane Bottles

View the Flame King Refillable Cylinder Kit training here.

Conclusion

Most RVs come with some type of pre-installed heater.

Even so, one may need a supplemental heater to use either in place of the installed system or to use as a supplement during certain called for situations.

Having a secondary heating method can mean the difference between life and death (or just comfort in general).

We highly recommend having a supplemental portable propane heater of some kind to have on hand while camping in or living in an RV.

It's always prudent to make sure you are safe and cozy when camping. Having a supplemental heater for your RV is a no-brainer for safety and comfort.

Get out there and Camp On!

Authors: Kelly Beasley & Marshall Wendler

Kelly Beasley

He-llllo. I'm the co-founder of Camp Addict, which my biz partner and I launched in 2017. I frigging love the RVing lifestyle but in December of 2020, I converted to part-time RV life. Heck, I lived in my travel trailer for over 5.5 years, STRICTLY boondocking for pretty much all of it. Boondocking is a GREAT way to live, but it's not easy. Anyway, I'm passionate about animals, can't stand campgrounds, I hardly ever cook, and I love a good dance party. Currently, I can be found plotting and scheming whether or not to start collecting farm animals (or plotting my next RV trip!) at my beautiful new 'ranch' named 'Hotel Kellyfornia', in Southern Arizona.

Marshall Wendler

Camp Addict co-founder Marshall Wendler brings his technical expertise to help explain RV products in an easy to understand fashion. Full-time RVing from April 2014 - December 2020 (now RVing about 50% of the time), Marshall loves sharing his knowledge of the RV lifestyle. Marshall spends the majority of his RVing life boondocking. He is the part of Camp Addict that knows 'all the things'. He's good at sharing his technical knowledge so you can benefit.

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Kind of interested in boondocking a little bit

Kelly Beasley says:

February 18, 2021 at 1:03 pm

Hi Charles,

Great! We say go for it. Did you have a specific question related to portable propane heaters?

Reply

Can you make your Amazon links go to “smile.amazon.com” instead of the regular Amazon? I’m not sure if that’s possible for you to do, but FYI the only reason I wouldn’t order a couple of these products through your links is that it I really like to contribute money to charities through my Amazon purchases.

Otherwise great list and I just learned from it that you can buy refill kits for those little one pound propane tanks, which is awesome!

Kelly Beasley says:

February 1, 2021 at 10:01 am

Hi Terry,

Yes! I used to refill my propane tanks as well! Saves you a ton of money!

While we understand and appreciate your desire to donate to your favorite charity, I’m not sure how we could make our links support ‘X organization’ through Smile and still continue to produce new content for this site. I love Smile- I use it to donate (when I remember, grrr) to Alaqua Animal Refuge.

Truth is, this website is our lifeblood. It’s our only income. We make a very small percentage of a purchase when one buys a product through our links. And Amazon, right at the beginning of the pandemic, slashed all affiliate percentages (again) by almost 50%. This effectively cut our income from Amazon in half. We ware relieved we started putting ads on the site just before that or we’d have been in a world of hurt!

The only way we can sustain this free RVing information for our readers, is if people go through our links when they make purchases (And now, through ads as well). Just like the charities, we have to make money, too! Otherwise, we’d have to quit this site and get jobs (or start another company.)

Still, you can always choose to support your charity, which is honorable, by going through one of our links to a product you are interested in, copy the product description, go to Amazon.Smile, then re-enter the description into the Amazon search bar. Then you can get the item and still support your charity. No commission would go to us.

Hope this helps, and thank you for your suggestion! You’ve piqued my interest in the company contributing a portion of our Amazon earnings to a charity every year. It’s a very good idea.

Cheers!

Reply

Why list electric heaters on a “indoor propane heater” page?
Why list outdoor-only models?
Why have “select a color” button that doesn’t do anything?

Kelly Beasley says:

March 23, 2020 at 10:50 am

All legit questions- thank you for asking! Here are our answers:

1. The page was intended to be for alternative heaters from built-in RV heaters, as we alluded to in the intro of the page. Any kind of portable heater. So yes, there’s also a portable electric heater in there. Just gave an alternative for when one doesn’t want to run propane, as we don’t have a page on ‘indoor RV electric heaters’.

2. The only outdoor model we listed is the golf cart Buddy. Common sense says it should be used in a golf cart and not indoors. Still, it’s relevant to RVing as many RVers bring golf carts with them so we included it. Otherwise, maybe you are speaking of the Buddy Heaters for Canada/Massachussetts. We only point out that if you try to buy a Buddy heater made in Massachusetts or Canada, it WILL be rated as ‘outdoor only’, simply due to legislation of the rules for indoor propane heaters in those places. They are the same product. But to be LEGAL about it, you would have to get the ones we list for those areas to use them indoors legally.

3. There are no ‘select a color’ buttons. (Buddy Heater section) It’s just text. It’s there to let you that you will need to choose your color when you get to Amazon. However, upon re-review of two of the Buddy heaters on that page, there were no longer any colors to choose from. We have removed ‘select color’ from those product links.

That’s it, we hope we answered your questions sufficiently and that you found some assistance from this page about portable RV heaters, propane or otherwise!

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