Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU Review

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU and What It Taught Me

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU is a propane-powered heater designed for temporary heating solutions. Marketed for construction sites, workshops, and outdoor events, it promises quiet, odorless, and electricity-free warmth. I was initially drawn to its high BTU output and portability, hoping it would be a reliable solution for chilly mornings on the jobsite and cold nights in my uninsulated workshop.

My workshop, a converted barn, is drafty and loses heat quickly, making winter projects a test of endurance. I needed a portable heat source that could quickly warm up a specific area without relying on electricity, as the barn’s wiring is limited. I considered several options, including kerosene heaters and electric space heaters. Ultimately, the Mr. Heater’s high BTU rating and propane fuel source made it seem like the most powerful and convenient choice.

The unit arrived fully assembled, which was a definite plus. My first impression was that it seemed robust, though the metal housing felt a bit thinner than I expected. It was surprisingly lightweight given its heating capacity, making it easy to move around the shop.

I also considered a smaller, 15,000 BTU propane heater from Camp Chef and a forced-air propane heater from ProTemp. The Camp Chef was too small for my needs, and the ProTemp was too loud and consumed more propane. The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU appeared to strike a good balance between heating power, portability, and fuel efficiency.

I was cautiously optimistic upon unboxing the Mr. Heater. I hoped it would live up to its promise of providing a quick and efficient heating solution. I was slightly concerned about its reliance on propane and the potential safety implications of using it indoors, even with precautions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place in my workshop on a day when the temperature hovered around 35°F. I connected a standard 20 lb propane cylinder using the included hose and P.O.L. connection. The piezo ignition sparked easily, and the heater fired up immediately.

The radiant heat was noticeable within seconds, providing a focused warmth that quickly raised the temperature in a 10-foot radius. The heater performed well in the cold, and there were no issues with the propane feed or ignition. I was surprised by how quiet it was compared to forced-air heaters, a major plus in my book.

After about an hour of use, I noticed a slight odor, which I attributed to the heater burning off manufacturing residue. Also, the surface of the heater got very hot; proximity is definitely something to be aware of. The unit worked, but I already realized careful placement of the heater, and proper ventilation was critical.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use in my workshop and on a few outdoor projects, the Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the main components. The metal housing is showing a bit of discoloration from the heat, but that’s to be expected.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. So far, I have not needed to clean the burner or any internal parts. I do ensure proper ventilation.

While it heats quickly and effectively, the Mr. Heater does consume propane at a moderate rate. I find myself refilling the 20 lb cylinder more often than I initially anticipated. However, it does outperform electric heaters in terms of heating power and speed. I would buy it again.

Breaking Down the Features of Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU

Specifications

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU boasts a heating capacity of 35,000 BTU per hour. This makes it suitable for heating areas up to 875 square feet. It operates exclusively on propane gas and does not require electricity, making it ideal for remote locations or situations where power is unavailable.

The unit connects to a standard 20 lb propane cylinder via a P.O.L. connection and includes a 12 ft hose. It features a tip-over safety shut-off to prevent accidents. The heater weighs approximately 19.85 lbs, making it easily portable.

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU uses a Piezo ignition system. This ensures easy start-up without the need for batteries or external power sources. The heater produces radiant heat, meaning it heats objects directly rather than heating the air.

Performance & Functionality

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU excels at providing focused, radiant heat in a relatively short amount of time. It’s particularly effective in open spaces where traditional convection heaters struggle. It quickly creates a warm zone directly in front of the unit.

Its primary strength lies in its portability and independence from electricity. This makes it a valuable asset for construction sites, workshops, and outdoor events. However, the absence of a thermostat means it’s difficult to maintain a consistent temperature. It is either fully on, or off.

Overall, the Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU meets expectations for a portable propane heater. It provides a powerful and reliable heating solution in situations where electricity is not readily available.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU features a simple, utilitarian design. The metal housing is sturdy enough for typical use, but it is not exceptionally robust. The unit is relatively lightweight and easy to carry, thanks to its compact size.

The controls are basic and straightforward. The piezo ignition system is simple to use. However, the absence of a handle or a more ergonomic design makes it slightly less convenient to move around frequently.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU should last for several years. The key is to keep it clean and dry when not in use. Regularly inspecting the hose and connections is crucial for safety.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving wiping down the exterior and checking for any leaks or damage. Replacement parts, such as hoses and regulators, are readily available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU comes with a 12 ft hose and a P.O.L. connection. Beyond that, there are limited customization options. It is compatible with any standard 20 lb propane cylinder.

Some users might consider adding a propane tank gauge to monitor fuel levels more accurately. However, there are no specific accessories designed to enhance the heater’s performance or functionality.

Pros and Cons of Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU

Who Should Buy Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU?

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU is perfect for construction workers, farmers, and workshop enthusiasts who need a reliable and portable heating solution. It’s also suitable for outdoor events, sporting events, and anyone needing temporary heat in a well-ventilated area.

Those living in small, poorly ventilated spaces should avoid this product due to the lack of an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) and the potential risks associated with propane combustion. Also, users who require precise temperature control would be better served by a heater with a thermostat.

A must-have accessory would be a carbon monoxide detector for added safety. A propane tank gauge would also be useful for monitoring fuel levels and avoiding unexpected runouts.

Conclusion on Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU

The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU is a solid choice for those needing a powerful, portable, and electricity-free heating solution. While it lacks some advanced features like a thermostat and ODS, its heating capacity and ease of use make it a valuable tool for various applications.

At $189.99, the price is justified for the performance it delivers. However, buyers should factor in the ongoing cost of propane.

I would recommend the Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater 35000 BTU to anyone looking for a reliable and portable heat source for well-ventilated spaces. Just remember to prioritize safety and ensure proper ventilation when using it. Now, go get warm and get those projects done!