Portable propane heater safety: know your space

Propane is a clean, safe and reliable energy source, and its versatile uses make it a great option for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As temperatures drop, small or portable propane heaters can add warmth to campers, hunting blinds, workshops and ice fishing shanties.

While propane space heaters provide many benefits during the winter months, it’s important to understand how to use them correctly. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using a portable space heater this winter. 

1. Know your space.

Propane heaters are great for outdoor use in well-ventilated areas, since they use open flames to generate heat at a higher capacity than electric heaters. However, if you will be heating a room inside a home or other building, choose an electric space heater instead, because propane heaters can pose a carbon monoxide hazard when used without adequate ventilation.

2. Propane heaters need oxygen to breath.

If you have a propane heater in a small space, like a fish house or hunting blind, and it’s running on high, it is probably consuming some of the oxygen you need to breathe. Be sure to frequently open a door or window to let in fresh air.

3. Don’t leave a heater on ice overnight.

Ice fishing houses usually need some kind of heat source to keep occupants comfortable, but leaving a heater on all the time can be dangerous. Ice below the house can melt, creating a hazardous situation for anyone inside or near the house. Use only approved propane heaters to warm your icehouse.

4. Find the perfect match.

With so many options, it’s important to understand how your heater works. When shopping for a new propane space heater, look for safety features such as automatic tip-over shut-off, a secure propane tank guard and an oxygen depletion sensor. And be sure to read the safety manual before using it each season.

You can visit the Cenex Locater to find a propane dealer near you to accommodate all of your propane needs – from small purchases to bulk business and residential needs. Ask your dealer about the qualified service technicians who can run safety and operation checks on your propane systems and appliances to ensure they operate efficiently and safely this winter.

To learn more about propane safety tips and guidelines visit the Cenex propane safety page.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user.