The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater is pretty handy if you need to warm up spaces both indoors and outdoors. Based on the manufacturer's product description, it can give off between 4,000 to 18,000 BTUs of heat. This means it can handle heating areas up to about 450 square feet, so it's great for things like garages, RVs, or even decent-sized camping tents.
When using it inside, there are a couple of safety features to be aware of. It's got Tip-Over Protection and an Oxygen Depletion Sensor, which will shut off the heater if it tips over or if oxygen levels drop. These are really reassuring for indoor use.
But remember, since it uses radiant heat instead of forced air, proper ventilation is key. Make sure to follow the operating instructions closely, as the manufacturer's guidelines are super important for safety when using propane heaters indoors.
From our research, it seems like there have been mixed results when connecting this heater to larger propane tanks. Some folks have run into clogging issues from hose particles with 20-pound propane tanks. A simple trick others have found helpful is using a propane filter to avoid this.
On the flip side, sticking to the smaller, one-pound propane bottles tends to be a bit less of a hassle.
Even with some hiccups using larger tanks, many are happy with the heater's strong heat output and portability. This pretty much matches what the manufacturer says about its performance and ease of transport.
So, if you're looking for a reliable heater for medium-sized spaces, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy is a solid pick, as long as you're mindful of the safety precautions.