10 Best Propane Heaters For Indoor Use 2025 in the United States

The Mr. Heater 18,000 BTU Big Buddy Pro Series Portable Propane Heater is a solid option for those looking to heat indoor and outdoor spaces up to 450 square feet. One of its greatest strengths is its versatility, with a heating range from 4,000 to 18,000 BTUs, making it suitable for various environments—from garages to living areas. Its clean-burning, nearly 100% efficiency is a bonus for users concerned about indoor air quality. Safety features are impressive, including auto shut-off if tipped over, pilot light extinguishes, or low oxygen levels are detected, which adds peace of mind, especially for indoor use. The heater is also portable, which means it can easily be moved to different locations as needed.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Although the heater is designed for indoor use, it still requires proper ventilation, which could be a limitation in certain scenarios. Additionally, operating at high altitudes (above 7,000 feet) can cause the heater to shut off, potentially frustrating users in mountainous areas. While the adjustable thermostat control is a useful feature, the recent removal of the fan on some models may affect performance, especially in larger spaces where air circulation is needed.

Another point to note is the requirement for D batteries to operate, which might be an inconvenience for some. Finally, the warning against using unauthorized accessories can be a concern for those looking to customize or extend functionality.

The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX is a versatile propane heater that delivers between 4,000 and 9,000 BTUs, making it suitable for spaces up to 225 square feet. This heater excels in several areas including its powerful radiant heat output and the advanced safety features it incorporates, such as a reliable tip-over safety switch and a low-oxygen shut-off system, which enhance safety in indoor settings.

The Piezo igniter ensures quick and hassle-free ignition without the need for external matches or lighters, adding to its user-friendly design. Its portability is another strong point, with a lightweight build and fold-down handle that make it easy to move around. Moreover, this heater offers flexible fuel options, connecting easily to a 1 lb. cylinder or adapting to a 20 lb. tank with an optional hose and filter.

Users will appreciate its fuel efficiency, providing up to 6 hours of heat on the low setting and 3 hours on high, ensuring prolonged warmth without frequent refills. However, one potential drawback is the absence of a built-in thermostat control, which means users need to manually adjust the heat settings. Additionally, while it is marketed as indoor-safe, adequate ventilation is still essential to prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide. This heater is best suited for small indoor spaces like bedrooms, home offices, and garages, as well as outdoor areas such as patios and job sites. Its combination of safety, portability, and efficiency makes it a reliable choice for those in need of a flexible heating solution.

The Camco Olympian Wave-3 Propane Heater is a compact and portable option, perfect for small spaces up to 100 square feet, such as an RV, bedroom, or home office. It provides adjustable heat between 1,600 and 3,000 BTUs, which is enough to warm up small rooms but may not be suitable for larger areas. Its catalytic heating design means it operates without an open flame, flue, or chimney, making it safer for indoor use compared to traditional propane heaters.

The heater includes a piezo ignition that is reliable and can last through thousands of starts, adding convenience and durability. Safety is addressed with a shut-off valve to prevent accidents, and its flameless operation reduces risks associated with gas heaters. However, it lacks a built-in thermostat control, so maintaining a steady temperature might require manual adjustment or supplementary devices. Also, while the unit is portable and lightweight at under 7 pounds, it does not have a fan or blower, so heat distribution is more gradual and localized.

Ventilation is still important with any propane device, though the Wave-3’s design reduces the need for complicated venting setups. This heater is well suited for those who need a safe, quiet, and easy-to-use propane heating solution for small indoor areas or RVs but don’t require powerful heat or advanced temperature controls.