A forced air propane heater is a popular heating choice in situations where electrical heating is impractical. These include job sites and barns where an electric heater may prove insufficient. Propane heaters are also common in larger-space applications such as warehouses and loading docks where other heating methods may come short.
This guide focuses on the best quietest forced air propane heaters – a category of propane heaters that utilize fans to help push heat throughout the intended space.
Though more expensive than fan-less models, a quiet propane heater come with many benefits including better and faster heat distribution. We’ll also discuss in detail, how to choose the best propane forced air heater. Before that, however, a review of some of the top products on this category;
6 Best Quietest Forced Air Propane Heater Reviews
Last update on 2023-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Mr. Heater 125,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater MH125QFAV
- Quiet Burner Technology-50% Quieter than a standard propane heater
- 10ft hose & regulator
- High-Temperature limit switch
- Heavy-duty handle
- Split barrel design for easy maintenance
Last update on 2023-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Mr. Heater MH125QFAV is a heavy duty 125k BTU heater designed primarily for job sites. The forced air heater comes with a 10-foot hose and heat regulator. In addition, it has safety switches and thermoelectric safety valves meaning it’s safe to use the heater on any job site .
Since it’s fully pre-assembled, all you need to do is plug the unit into a 110-volt outlet, hook up the hose to a 20lb+ propane tank, and you’re off to the races.
The MH125QFAV is ideal for spaces up to 3,125 square feet and can run for a whole 11.5 hours when on a full tank. It has two heat settings – Low (75,000 BTU) and High (125,000 BTU). For peace of mind, it implements continuous ignition so you don’t have to ignite the unit every time.
The MH125QFAV would be an excellent heat source in factories, sporting events, farming functions, sites, and patios. Moreover, it comes with a 40lb tank.
Pros
- Split barrel design for easy maintenance
- Quiet burner technology
- Multiple safety features
- CSA Certified
Cons
- No wheels
2. Mr. Heater Hero 35000BTU Cordless Propane Heater
- No electricity required
- Accidental tip-over safety shutoff
- Flame safety shutoff
- CSA certified
- Runs on a 20lb. lp cylinder
Last update on 2023-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This Mr. Heater Hero 35000BTU Cordless Propane Heater is another great option when shopping for a cordless propane heater for medium to large applications.
The 17-pound heater is designed for spaces up to 875 square feet and utilizes a Quiet Burner Technology that makes it 50% quieter than standard propane heaters.
Mr. Heater Hero top features include easy grip handles for easy mobility and angled heat release. The heater has an adjustable base that allows for angled heat flow.
It comes with a 20lb propane tank and runs up to 8 hours on an internally rechargeable battery. It can operate while charging and the battery takes up to 5 hours to recharge fully.
Mr. Heater Hero works well in shops, garages, and barns. The only downside is that the unit is a bit noisy. Still, it’s a steal for the price.
Pros
- Heats up to 875 sq. ft.
- Powerful, quiet and cordless
- Runs up to 8 hours per charge
- One-touch gas valve with Piezo Igniter
- Quiet Burner Technology – 50% quieter than standard propane heater
Cons
- Heater is hard to start the first time it is turned on
3. Ridgid R860424B 18-Volt Hybrid Propane Forced Air Heater (60,000 BTU)
Last update on 2023-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Ridgid brushless 18-volt R860424B heater is a hybrid propane heater (one of the first of its kind) that runs either on the Ridgid 18-volt battery or an extension cord attached to a propane tank. Neither the battery nor the extension cord is included in the shipment though, so you’ll need to purchase them separately.
The R860424B generates enormous amounts of heat. A variable power dial allows you to select the most comfortable heating temperatures depending on your job site. It has two temperature settings – Low (30,000 BTU) and High (60,000 BTU). It is equipped with electronic ignition for easy start up.
Read: how much propane will a 30000 BTU space heater use
Additionally, the Ridgid is ETL certified and comes with overheat protection. The unit is also protected by a 3-year warranty and comes with a 90-day return period.
Pros
- 60,000 BTU heater
- 3-year warranty
- ETL certified
- Hybrid heating technology
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Extension cord not included
4. DeWalt DXH70CFAV 68,000 BTU Cordless Forced Air Propane Heater
- Industrial housing - Electrostatic powder-coat finish ensures long life and protection for internal components
- Batteries: 1 - 20V battery required (batteries and charger sold separately)
- Variable rate valve for optimal heat
- Quite Burner Technology - 50 percent quieter than a standard propane heater
- High temperature limit switch for added safety
Last update on 2023-05-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The DeWalt DXH70CFAV is a cordless forced air propane heater that comes with a standard hose, heat regulator, and a plethora of safety features. It implements DeWalt’s Quiet Burner Technology for low-noise operation. You need a 20-Volt Max Battery System for the unit to run, though it’s also compatible with 20V/60V MAX Flex Volt batteries.
The heater’s highlight features include factory installed high limit switches and a thermometric safety valve. The controls are recessed to avoid damage. The split barrel design makes maintenance easier than you’d expect while an ergonomic easy carry handle allows you to take the heater wherever you wish. It runs for 6.17 hours uninterrupted on High and 13 hours on Low heat setting when on a full tank.
The DeWalt DXH70CFAV weighs 14.8lbs, is CSA Certified, and features a stainless build with an electrostatic powder-coat finish that ensures a long life.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction
- High temperature limit switch
- Variable heat settings
- CSA Certified
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
5. Heatstar By Enerco Forced Air Propane Heater HS35FA (35k BTU)
- Package Dimensions: 52.07 cms (L) x 32.257 cms (W) x 24.637 cms (H)
- Product Type: Bearings And Bushings
- Package Quantity: 1
- Country Of Origin: China
Last update on 2023-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Heat Star model HS35FA is another heavy-duty heater to consider when shopping for a forced air propane heating system. Built to last with high quality components, the 35,000BTU heater comes with a standard 20-foot hose as well as a heat regulator. It is also equipped with overheating shutoff technology and features solid-state ignition.
The HS35FA is designed for use in spaces up to 800 square feet and features a durable, rugged stainless steel construction to withstand the harshest job conditions. It has a heavy duty fan that blows air at 100 CFM. A 20lb propane tank is required, though you can use larger tanks.
The HS35FA weighs 13.65 lbs, plugs into a regular 115v outlet and comes with a one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- Rugged, durable steel construction
- 20-foot hose and heat regulator included
- Heavy duty, high output fan
- One-year warranty
- Most affordable on this list
Cons
- Smallest size (BTU) on this list
- Not ideal for very large applications
6. Remington Heater REM-125-GFA-0 150,000 BTU Propane Forced Air Heater
- RELIABLE—great for construction sites, workshops, farms, or garages
- RUGGED—steel construction
- HIGH-OUPUT—variable BTU for heating up to 1500 square feet
- Class-exclusive electronic ignition, adjustable heat angle, fan assembly, and a 10-foot hose and regulator. Air flow capacity: 300 CFM
- 1-year limited warranty
Last update on 2023-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Finally, at 150,000 BTU, the Remington REM-125-GFA-0 is the largest heater on this list. This makes it great for extra large applications such as construction sites, farms, and large workshops.
The REM-125-GFA-0 isn’t just big though. It also comes with many useful features that allow for easy handling and convenient heating control. For one, the rugged steel construction guarantees a long life.
In addition, the heater boasts class-exclusive electronic ignition, fan assembly, and an adjustable heat angle. A convenient carry handle, programmable thermostat control, and an overheat shutoff switch are other notable features. A 10-foot hose is included.
The 21.6lb REM-125-GFA-0 is ideal for spaces up to 3,125 square feet and can run for 22 hours uninterrupted when on a full tank – the longest on this list. It comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- Ideal for spaces up to 3,125 sq. ft.
- Runs for up to 22 hours uninterrupted
- Class-exclusive electronic ignition
- One-year warranty
- Rugged steel construction
Cons
- A 10-foot hose is a bit short
- Most expensive on this list
Quiet Propane Heater Buying Guide
With the reviews covered, it’s time to pick the right forced air propane heater for your application. Let’s begin with a definition;
What is a Propane Heater?
A propane heater is a type of heater that runs either primarily or exclusively on propane fuel. In models where propane is the “primary” source of fuel, the heaters rely on batteries and electricity especially for ignition.
What makes propane a good fuel for heaters is that it’s clean-burning and very efficient. Propane itself is usually a gas. But, for use in heaters and grills, the gas is compressed into a liquid. The propane we use is known as commercial propane and comprises several other compounds, including propylene and butane.
How Propane Heaters Work
A typical propane heaters comprises three main parts; the igniter, element, and pilot light. The whole working process starts at the igniter. An igniter is a material, often quartz or crystal, with the potential to develop an electric current when pressure is applied to it. The material is housed in a mechanism that allows a spring-loaded hammer to strike. Whenever the hammer strikes, the action generates a spark that ignites propane. The most common type of igniter is the piezoelectric igniter.
Once the propane ignites, the element, made from porcelain, spreads the flame out in a pattern and helps with distributing the flame’s heat. A pilot then steps in to light the main burner.
All propane heaters have a means to control the flame and amount of heat produced. Some modern models, for example, have a thermostat that allows for digital adjustment and control of temperatures. Others, meanwhile, have manual flame controls mechanisms.
What is a Forced Air Propane Heater?
Also known as fan propane heaters, forced air propane heaters are propane heaters that incorporate a fan. While a standard heater depends almost exclusively on natural heat transfer processes, especially convection and radiation, forced air models introduce a fan into the process for faster and more even heat distribution.
The introduction of a fan often necessitates a change in heater design. Indeed, most forced air propane heaters look like a jet pack and are designed to direct heat in one direction. And most of them are large heaters with carry handles.
Advantages of Forced Air Propane Heaters
The benefits of propane heaters are evident. First off, propane is cheaper than electricity. Secondly, the units make excellent complementary/secondary heaters. Whenever the heat from the main furnace proves insufficient, the propane heater can be used to top up the difference. Finally, propane is a great option in areas where electric power and natural gas aren’t readily available. You’ll easily find propane dealers even in remote areas.
Forced air propane heaters come with even more benefits. These include;
- Faster heating: Fan-free heaters take at least a few minutes to raise the temperature of a given space to the desired level. In the heart of winter, the biting cold might not allow you to wait so long. Forced air propane heaters are the perfect solution in such situations because they deliver heat instantly.
- More efficient heat distribution:Forced air heaters are also much better at circulating heat within a confined space. That’s because the fans blow continuously, thus moving heat out of the heater at a higher speed as well as circling it throughout the room more evenly. Fan-free models, meanwhile, rely on natural air movement and heat transfer, which can be both slow and inefficient.
- Multiple applications: Forced air propane heaters are some of the most versatile heaters around. They can be used in very many applications, even in situations where others heaters might not be practical. The heaters are, for instance, are one of the best options for large barns and warehouses. Moreover, they are also excellent for commercial stores and loading docks.
- Take them everywhere: Above all, forced-air propane heaters are portable. You can take them with you wherever you go. You can even bring the heater to your commercial facility and carry it back home for use in the garage.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Propane Forced Air Heater
There are several factors to consider when shopping for a forced-air propane heater. These include;
1. Indoor-safe vs. outdoor-only models
Some propane heaters are not safe for indoor use unless you have chosen an indoor propane heater. These heaters are designed to kick out a lot of heat. The heat is also directed in one direction. This significantly increases the risk of fires and burning, making such heaters unsafe for indoor use. Most forced air propane heaters fall in this category. Do not use them indoors. If you’re shopping for any propane heaters to use indoors, check that it’s listed as indoor-safe. However, we have also reviewed the best propane heaters for garage and best basement heater.
2. Ignition type
The majority of propane heaters come with an integrated electric ignition mechanism where the fuel is automatically and instantly ignited. Other heaters, meanwhile, must be ignited manually. For greater safety and increased convenience, consider models with in-built electronic ignition.
3. Portability
All propane heaters are portable. However, some are more portable than others. The smaller portable propane heater models, for instance, are light enough to carry around with a handle. However, other heavier, bigger-size models are moved around on wheels. Which level of portability would best suit your application?
4. Heating capacity (size)
You’ll also need to find the right size (capacity) heater for the intended application. Propane heater capacity is given in British Thermal Units (BTU). One (1) BTU = 0.293 watts such that one watt is equivalent to 3.41 BTU. Make sure to check heater size charts and calculators to determine the right size heater for your application. If you’re looking to heat a large room, we have reviewed the best indoor electric heaters for large rooms.
5. Convenience controls
Modern propane heaters are equipped with several convenience controls that allow you to adjust your climate to the most comfortable levels. These include in-built thermostats, timer functions, and LED displays. Always keep an eye out for the controls. Room heaters with thermostat seem to be the best option.
6. Cost
Finally, forced air propane heaters don’t come cheap. Most of them are priced in the $100 to $250 range. Some even cost over $500. Typically, prices rise as the size (BTU value) increases. Prices also depend on the quality of build and the number and quality of convenience features. That said, however, the most expensive products aren’t always the best. Choose a product with the features you need.
Propane Heater Safety
Propane heaters are not completely safe. First off, when burnt, propane produces a few gases that might be unsafe for human health. Additionally, the heaters get very hot. Without proper care, children and pets might get burnt. The following are several propane heater safety tips to help keep your family and home safe;
- Ensure regular maintenance: Gas leaks are one of the most common issues in propane heaters. When inhaled, the leaked gas can affect the respiratory tract and cause many other health problems. To prevent any leaks, ensure regular maintenance of the heater.
- Prevent any burn accidents: As already mentioned, propane heater surfaces get very hot when the unit is in operation. To prevent burn accidents, position the heater out of reach of pets and children.
- Turn it off when refilling: Never attempt to refill the heater when it’s in operation. It creates a preventable burn and fire risk. Whenever you need to refill it, power off the unit and allow the surfaces to cool down first.
- Leave sufficient clearance: The heater must be placed at least three feet away from flammable items such as curtains and furniture. Maintain the said clearance all around the heater.
- Don’t leave it on overnight: Even if you end up using the heating deep into the night, before you go to bed, turn it off. Leaving a forced air propane heater ON overnight creates a huge fire risk.
Summary
If you’re looking for a versatile heater to use in largely unconventional situations such as outdoor gatherings, a large warehouse, or in the barn, a quiet propane heater would be a great option. The heaters pack plenty of heat and are easy to use and maintain. They also provide instant heat and burn clean flames. Make sure to find the right size though.
