Best Propane Heater for Home – 2025 Reviews

BTU (British Thermal Units) measure heating power, and getting this right is crucial for efficiency. As a general rule, you need about 20-25 BTU per square foot of space. For small rooms under 150 square feet (like home offices), look for 3,000-5,000 BTU models. Medium rooms (150-300 square feet) work well with 5,000-10,000 BTU, while large spaces like living rooms or garages may need 10,000-30,000 BTU.

Remember that overpowering a small room can make it uncomfortably hot and waste propane, while underpowering a large space means the heater will struggle to maintain warmth.

Oxygen Depletion Sensors (ODS) are non-negotiable for indoor use—they automatically shut off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low, preventing carbon monoxide buildup. Tip-over protection is equally important, cutting power if the unit gets knocked over. I always look for cool-touch cabinets to prevent burns, and automatic shut-off valves that activate if the flame goes out unexpectedly.

Always ensure proper ventilation when using propane heaters indoors, even with these safety features, and never leave them unattended for extended periods.

Portable heaters with handles or wheels are perfect if you need to move heat between rooms or take it outdoors. They typically use smaller 1-pound propane cylinders and are great for temporary heating. Permanent installation models that wall-mount or connect to larger propane tanks are better for dedicated spaces like garages or workshops where you want consistent heat without moving equipment around.

Consider how often you’ll need to relocate the heater—frequent moves favor portable designs, while stationary use might benefit from more permanent solutions.

Runtime varies dramatically based on BTU output and tank size. A 1-pound propane cylinder typically lasts 2-6 hours on high heat settings, while connecting to a 20-pound tank can provide days of continuous use. Look for models with adjustable BTU settings—being able to dial down the heat when you don’t need maximum output can significantly extend your propane supply.

Vent-free models tend to be more efficient since no heat escapes through vents, but proper room ventilation remains essential for safety.

Thermostat controls are worth the investment if you want consistent temperatures without constant adjustment—they automatically cycle the burner to maintain your preferred warmth. Electronic ignition systems are more reliable than manual lighters, especially in damp conditions. Multiple heat settings give you flexibility, and built-in fans (on electric models) can help distribute heat more evenly throughout the room.

For convenience, consider features like remote controls, timer functions, or battery backup systems that maintain operation during power outages.

Not all propane heaters are safe for indoor use—only those specifically labeled as indoor-safe with ODS protection should be used inside your home. Outdoor models lack these safety features and can produce carbon monoxide, making them dangerous for enclosed spaces. Even indoor-safe models need adequate ventilation—I always crack a window slightly to ensure fresh air circulation.

If you plan to use the heater in both environments, look for dual-rated models that meet safety standards for indoor and outdoor operation.

Yes, but only specific models designed for indoor use with proper safety features. Look for heaters with oxygen depletion sensors (ODS) and tip-over protection that are explicitly certified for indoor operation. Always ensure adequate ventilation by keeping a window slightly open, and never use outdoor-only propane heaters indoors as they can produce dangerous carbon monoxide levels.

A simple rule of thumb is 20-25 BTU per square foot of space. Measure your room’s length and width, multiply them to get square footage, then multiply by 25 for a well-insulated room or 30 for a drafty space. For example, a 10×12 foot room (120 square feet) would need approximately 3,000 BTU. Remember that ceiling height, insulation quality, and window coverage also affect heating needs—higher ceilings or poor insulation may require slightly more BTU.

Regular maintenance is simple but important. Clean the burner and vents periodically with a soft brush to remove dust and debris that could affect performance. Check hose connections for leaks using soapy water—bubbles indicate leaks that need addressing. Inspect the ODS system according to manufacturer instructions, and always store propane tanks upright in well-ventilated areas away from heat sources.

I don’t recommend using propane heaters while sleeping in enclosed spaces like bedrooms. Even with safety features, there’s always a risk of oxygen depletion or carbon monoxide buildup when unsupervised. If you must use one for nighttime warmth, ensure excellent ventilation, keep it away from bedding and flammable materials, and consider using a carbon monoxide detector in the room as an additional safety measure.

Runtime depends on BTU setting and tank size. A standard 1-pound disposable propane cylinder lasts 2-6 hours on high heat (around 9,000 BTU), while a 20-pound tank can provide 10-30 hours of continuous use. Models with adjustable BTU settings extend runtime significantly—using low settings (3,000-6,000 BTU) can double or triple the operating time compared to maximum output.