Texas Propane Provides Important Information about LP Gas Space Heaters

Often referred to as infrared space heaters, these models heat rooms and spaces in the same way the sun heats the earth. They function to heat objects which in turn heats the surrounding air.

Commonly marketed and sold as “blue flame” space heaters, these space heaters models have a visible blue flame and work similarly to a central air heater. Air is warmed by the flame and circulated to surrounding objects and people.

Either of the above listed propane space heaters can be attached to a wall provided the space heater is installed correctly.

Unvented propane space heaters are designed to operate within a single space using the indoor room air for combustion. Vented propane space heaters draw air from the outside for combustion and return flame gases back to the outdoors.

Indoor propane space heater installation must be performed so that the heater functions efficiently, effectively and safely. Differing types of space heaters are subject to individual installation requirements. The reasoning behind these regulations are not only for safety, but also for warmth and comfort on cold days when needed and used. As a general rule, unvented space heaters should not be installed in bedrooms or bathrooms. This is because this requirement involves combustion requirements and available space in the room.

All indoor propane gas space heaters should be installed on a non-combustible surface and away from any combustible material such as curtains, towels, doors, walls and furniture. Wall mounted room heaters should be attached to a non-combustible wall surface. They should also be installed so that they are not a hazard to individuals walking around. NFPA 54 states that air circulating (blue flame) type space heaters have at least 12 inches clearance from the heater sides and rear. Radiant (infrared) type space heaters should have at least 18 inches clearance from the sides and rear of the heater, as well as 36 inches clearance from the front. While these are general propane space heater installation requirements, all gas space and room heaters should be installed according to the manufacturers specifications.

While it’s recommended that direct vent LP Gas space heaters be installed in rooms typically kept closed, unvented indoor propane heaters are permitted to be installed in bedrooms and bathrooms provided the following requirements are met:

These exceptions are simply stating that wall mounted propane space heaters are allowed in bedrooms and bathrooms as long as the heaters are relatively small and incorporate an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS). The purpose of the ODS is to safely shut down the heater if oxygen becomes too low. The oxygen depletion sensor detects the absence of needed oxygen and will automatically shut off an unvented space heater. The safety mechanism keeps the heater from using available oxygen that is needed for individuals in enclosed areas, such as rooms. A propane indoor space heater without an ODS installed in a room can result in asphyxiation and Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Also, keep in mind that wall mounted room heaters are subject to installation requirements as previously discussed. Don’t hesitate to contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below for more information on indoor propane gas space heaters.