Big Buddy Heaters

[the lone gunman]

With Cold temps coming soon I want to get an emergency Heat source for the house. Something to at least keep my Kitchen/Living room warm. I would say less than 600 sq ft. I like this heater and always have 20lb propane on hand. I would go with the 18000 btu model.
Do any of you have any experience with these type heaters?
Thanks.

 

[gadgetgeek]

Keep a battery powered CO monitor near by, and all should be well. My experience with radiant heaters is that they feel warm when you are in the beam, but don't warm the air as much, this makes them more efficient, but not necessarily as comfortable. Other than that, they tend to do the job well, as long as you do your part and be smart about it.

 

[sideways]

Here is an earlier thread about one of the smaller Mr Heater units.
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/1156216-Portable-heating-Mr-Heater-Protable-Buddy-Propane-heater-review-and-operation

My thoughts have not changed on the subject. Portable heaters and retrofits are a half measure if you live in a cold environment. Don't do half measures.

Better to have a wood stove big enough to heat your entire home using locally sourced renewable materials. Keep the chimney clean and lay in a good supply of wood. You won't find a more foolproof backup heating system.

 

[ac700wildcat]

I have one that I use in my 2 man ice house. It puts out way more heat than I need in there. I brought a carbon monoxide detector with one day and it never registered any. I did have one day where some ice got in the line or something and it would gas me out in 5 mins of use, so I'd definitely keep a detector around when in use. A 20lb propane tank lasts quite a while when using it.

 

[gadgetgeek]

sideways, not all areas would allow wood stoves by local ordinance. Plus a big investment if someone doesn't need it often. but as a backup situation, if it makes sense, wood can be very useful.