Best Tank Top Propane Heater

Best Tank Top Propane Heater

After taking a deep dive into the propane heater market, we have found that the best tank top propane heater is the Mr. Heater, 30,000 – 45,000 BTU 540 Degree Tank Top Heater.

Of all the Mr. Heater models, it puts out the most heat and seems to be the most reliable. It also produces a consistent radius of heat, since the heating head sends its warmth out in all directions.

Last update on 2023-09-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

For a full review of this heater, see our Product Reviews section below.

Runner-Up Best Tank Top Propane Heater

The runner-up propane heater is the Dura Heat TT360DG Omni-directional propane tank-top heater. In many ways, it is similar to the Mr. Heater above, though it is a little lower power, and priced a little higher. It really is a nice heater, though, and is quite effective at warming up those cold areas!

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

For a full review of the TT360DG, see the Product Reviews section below.

Budget Pick: Tank Top Propane Heater

The ProCom PCTT15 15,000 BTU Tank-Top Propane Heater is a contender right up with the Mr. Heater models. Its primary fault is a plastic valve where users would like to have something that could be tightened with a wrench or screwdriver.

It is very nearly comparable to the Mr. Heater single tank top unit and costs quite a bit less.

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

For a full review of the ProCom, see the Product Reviews section below.

Tank Top Heater Buyer’s Tips

Tank top propane heaters are excellent for construction sites, sporting events, chilly patio gatherings, or outdoor winter camping. They have a wide variety of use cases, and while nowhere near as pretty as pole-style propane heaters, or quartz pyramid heaters, they put out similar ranges of heat, and can be conveniently stored away when not needed.

Tip-Over Risk and Safety

One of the big risks with these units is that the tank will tip over, or someone will bump the heater and it will topple over. While all of the units on our list have anti-tip safety settings, there’s always a risk with these heaters.

Without a doubt, a tank-foot is a great accessory to purchase for these tanks, and will significantly increase the safety. The tank foot will fit onto the bottom of the propane tank (these are mostly universal) and will stabilize it and reduce the chance of tipping, and of fire.

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Tank Top Heaters and Garages

Tank top heaters are sometimes used as garage heaters and shop heaters, though this can be risky. It’s usually best to use an electric heater if the air flow through your garage is low, as these don’t release any harmful gases.

If you really want use a propane heater, be sure you have adequate airflow, whether that means opening a window, the garage door, etc. Of course, this can defeat the purpose of the heater, as the air outside will almost always be cold.

Stay safe!

Tank-Top Heater Power Output

All of the heaters on our list use propane gas, and output between 15,000 BTU and 45,000 BTU. Naturally, the higher the BTU quantity, the quicker the fuel will be used up, but also, the hotter the area will get. In general, it’s better to get a higher-BTU option and turn it down if you don’t need the full power output, rather than getting multiple smaller units. These will each require their own propane tank.

How Long Will a 5 Gallon Tank Last?

A gallon of propane will provide about 90,000 BTU of energy. Most tanks have approximately 5 gallons of propane — or 450,000 BTU of capacity.

To get a rough idea of the length of time your heater will last, you can divide its maximum heat output by 450,000, and you’ll get the approximate number of hours the tank will last.

Propane Tank Top Heater Reviews

In this section, we’ll look at five of our favorite tank-top propane heaters. We’ll start with a comparison table to get the lay of the land, and then move into individual reviews before concluding with our recommendations.

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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1. Mr. Heater F242100 MH15T Single Tank Top Outdoor Propane Heater

Key Points at a Glance

• Assembly required
• 3.0 pounds weight
• Stainless Steel
• Free Standing
• Push-button ignition
• 10,000 to 15,000 BTUs per hour
• Tank not included
• Auto shutoff with loss of flame
• Operates 30 hours on high
• Outdoor Use only
• Covered under a 1-year warranty

Dimensions and Specs

• 12.8 inches x 9.8 inches, x 8 inches
• Shipping weight: 4.3 pounds
• Puts out 10,000 to 15,000 BTUs per hour
• Lasts 30 hours on high.

The Details

The Mr. Heater MH15T (now also known as the F242100) outdoor single tank propane heater is the perfect answer for warmth at an autumn or even winter outdoor gathering.

Putting out a minimum of 10,000 BTUs per hour and lasting for about 30 hours on high, it is ideal for hunting, ice fishing, camping, or construction, or general patio use. The heater should only be operated outdoors. Do not use inside a building or tent without adequate ventilation.

This tank top propane heater is a utilitarian object and is not necessarily a thing of beauty. But most of its use cases don’t require beauty, so we don’t think this is a significant concern. The main thing is that it can deliver warmth right away!

Made from stainless steel, the MH15T attaches directly to the top of a standard portable propane tank. Some assembly is required upon arrival, though it’s pretty straightforward.

Wipe clean with a damp cloth when cool, turn off and cool before attaching to a new tank.

The heater is ideal for outdoor events and can be used as a sort of instant campfire for heat.

Some users had problems with the burner not producing a proper low-level flame, but most were happy with the steady heat provided by the MH15T. 

The Bottom Line

If you spend a great deal of time out of doors, the MH15T heater can help make your late autumn and early winter excursions and events far more pleasant. It’s reasonably priced, and Mr. Heater is a reliable heater brand. It’s also covered under a 1-year warranty, which is always a plus.

Test the heater out of doors before going on your camping trip or other events to make sure it is working properly before it is needed. Don’t plan to assemble it when you’re already in need of heat!

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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2. Mr. Heater F242655 MH30TS Double Tank Top Outdoor Heater

Key Points at a Glance

• Two burner surfaces
• High, medium and low heat settings
• Polished reflector
• Tip-over shut off
• Push-button ignition
• Can operate one or two burners
• Outdoor use only
• One year limited warranty
• Online User Manual

Dimensions and Specs

• Dimensions: 16 inches by 6.5 inches x 16.8 inches
• Weight: 10 pounds
• Shipping weight: 6.8 pounds
• Heat Output: 8,000 to 30,000 BTUs
• One 5 gallon tank will last 14 hours with both burners on high setting.

The Details

The Mr. Heater MH30TS is a two-burner version of the MH15T above. Note they’ve changed the name to F242655 in some listings. 

Like the MH15T, this propane heater is quite utilitarian and is not a thing of beauty. If you want a small but attractive heater, stick to a tabletop heater or other pole-style propane heater. This is a utilitarian unit and is made for quick, easy functionality. It’s not made for beauty, which is reasonable.

But if you are working outside or are otherwise spending time on the patio and are feeling cold, this heater can be a blessing. The angle of both of the heating elements can be adjusted independently, so multiple people can get some heat, and a range of about 5′ from the unit is the sweet spot for heating.

Like all the other propane heaters on our list, this unit is not recommended for enclosed areas, and you need to be sure to provide adequate ventilation.

It is made of stainless steel and comes with a one-year limited warranty, which is always a plus.

This is one of those items that when it works, it works great, but it can go wrong. There are a few reports around of these units shooting fire out, and causing an extremely hazardous situation to occur. This is obviously a concern, and as we mentioned, be sure not to use it unattended.

The Bottom Line

The MH30TS is one of those appliances that you love when it works, and it either works or it doesn’t. As we mentioned above, pay attention to the unit and ensure that everything is working properly each time you use it.

It is an excellent device to take camping or even out to the ballgame but is not recommended for indoor use.

Like all unvented heaters, there is a danger of asphyxiation when used in an enclosed space. Ensure your ventilation is adequate. Keep an eye on your heater and turn it off at the first sign of trouble.

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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3. Dura Heat TT360DG 40000 Liquid Propane 360-Degree Tank Top Heater

Key Points at a Glance

• Puts out up to 40,000 BTU of heat
• Omnidirectional design heats up to 1,000 SF
• Match-light ignition
• Has multiple heat settings
• Heater will last about 11 hours on high setting
• Covered under a 1-year warranty

Dimensions and Specs

• Dimensions: 8.9 x 8.9 x 20.71 in
• Weight: 4.2 lbs

The Details

The Dura Heat TT360DG propane tank top heater is a fairly attractive omnidirectional heater that moves away from the headlight-style design commonly found on the lower-end Mr. Heater units, and toward a more attractive presentation. The 360DG stands for 360 degrees of heating. It’s still not as nice looking as the MH540T discussed below, but it is decent looking.

This heater has three heat levels and is pretty easily lit with a standard long-stem lighter. It can put out up to 40,000 BTU of heat, which is great, and it will heat up a somewhat-enclosed space quite rapidly. It will heat up to 1,000 sf.

Generally, it’s best to fire this up and turn it on high for a minute or two, before dropping the temperature down to the desired level. It’s also a good idea to pick up a propane tank foot, and make sure that the tank is level, as the anti-tip system is a bit sensitive.

Those who find that this heater is shutting off more than it should may not have it quite level, or they may have a problem with their auto-off switch. There are also reports of occasional issues with the thermocouple, but this unit is covered under warranty, so keep that in mind.

The Bottom Line

The Dyna-Glo TT360DG is a great choice for many who are looking for a powerful propane tank that will produce even heat and will work quietly. It is covered under a 1-year warranty, and most find that this unit works quite well. 

It is priced fairly reasonably, given the heat output, and is a really nice tank-top propane heater.

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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4. Mr. Heater, Corporation Mr. Heater MH540T 30,000 – 45,000 BTU 540 Degree Tank Top Heater

Key Points at a Glance

• 360-degree heater head
• 180 multi-directional Bracket
• Use with Liquid Propane
• TE Valve is Push Button
• Match-light ignition
• Has 3 heat settings
• Safety Shutoff
• Mounts on a 20-pound propane cylinder
• 1 year limited warranty

Dimensions and Specs

• Run Time: 10 hours on high
• Fuel consumption: .176 pounds per hour
• Weight 5.5 pounds

The Details

The circular head on the Mr. Heater MH540T propane tank top heater is designed to heat in all directions in a similar fashion to the Dyna-Glo. In addition, it rotates back and forth 180 degrees to deliver a powerful, even heat. It can be used both directionally (in the same way the MH15T above works) or it can supply heat to all directions. The design is quite clever, and works well.

The overall look is perhaps a bit more attractive than the headlight-style heaters by Mr. Heater mentioned above, though it’s still a far cry from a Quartz Glass Heater or other styles of patio heater. It looks utilitarian, but there’s nothing wrong with that!

This unit is capable of putting out a significant amount of heat, maxing out at 45,000 BTU It has three power levels, and ignites pretty easily with a standard lighter.

The burner is encased in a wire cage to prevent accidental touching of the heated area. Users have almost universally praised its ability to raise temperatures quickly.

However, a few users have indicated problems with the safety valve sticking, and with the temperature controller. Almost all noted that it is a bit of a fuel hog and does not last as long as the single or double head models. 

To fully realize the benefits of the warranty, the heater should be registered at the Mr. Heater website upon purchase.

The Bottom Line

If your goal is to heat an area quickly and to only run the heater when it is in immediate need of use, this is an excellent heater. This heater is pretty high quality, looks decent, and puts out a lot of heat.

It’s also covered under a 1-year warranty, which is always a plus! This is the best tank top propane heater available.

Last update on 2023-09-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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5. ProCom PCTT15 Tank-Top Propane Heater, Single Burner, 15,000 BTU

Key Points at a Glance

• Puts out up to 15,000 BTU of heat
• Lasts 24 to 43 hours depending on temp setting
• Has three temperature level options
• Single Burner
• Matchlight ignition

Dimensions and Specs

• Online manual available here
• Limited parts warranty – See manual, link above

The Details

The ProCom PCTT15 patio heater is quite similar to the Mr. Heater MH15T above, though it is positioned at a more attractive price point.

This is a less expensive unit that users generally report to be reliable. Two main points of concern with this unit are that the attachment valve is plastic, and some find that the safety shut-off valve is finicky.

The PCTT15 heater does a good job of putting out heat but does need to be lighted with a match.

As with all these units, it is intended for outdoor use only and needs proper ventilation if used in a garage or other similar area.

It is not an especially attractive unit, but it seems to get the job done.

The Bottom Line

If you need an inexpensive heater for outdoor use, this one should do the job. It is not the most powerful heater in this list, but it seems to be the most reliable of the bunch.  The Mr. Heater Corporation model is probably a little more powerful if you need to heat a large area quickly.

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Conclusion: Tank Top Outdoor Heaters

Tank top propane heaters are intended for outdoor use and should only be used there. They are not appropriate for emergency indoor heating as they do produce carbon monoxide which can lead to asphyxiation. With that said, they can turn grey weather camping into an endurable session, especially in areas where fires are forbidden or where firewood is limited.

The Mr. Heater Corporation model has the felicity of giving off a uniform amount of heat in all directions and is one of the better rated Mr. Heater models if user reports can be relied upon. The single top Mr. Heater model puts off a nice amount of heat, but in only one direction. It is, however, a little more economical to run than the Mr. Heater corporation model. The budget runner up, the ProCom tank top actually has been reported to have slightly better performance than the Mr. Heater Single Top but had fewer user reports available for comparison. It is priced considerably lower than the Mr. Heater model.

All tank top heaters should be used under supervision, out of doors. None of them are designed for use inside a garage, tent, outbuilding or any other place where the fumes from the burning propane might be contained. All of them put out a reasonable amount of heat. Caution should be used when assembling and lighting these heaters. If you smell gas, you should put them aside at once, and call your provider. All of them come with limited warranties, including the budget model, and there are options for replacement parts.

With that said, you can make your next gray weather camping trip or sporting event a lot more pleasant with one of these portable heat sources.

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