Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 Review

First Impressions of Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 promises a reliable source of portable heat for both indoor and outdoor use, a vital piece of gear for anyone spending time in cold environments. Mr. Heater has a long-standing reputation for quality propane heaters, and this model boasts features like a built-in blower, multiple heat settings, and safety shut-offs. It seems like a versatile solution for a range of heating needs.

As someone with over a decade of experience in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I was specifically seeking a dependable heat source for ice fishing trips and emergency preparedness. I’ve used smaller propane heaters before, but they often lacked the power and safety features I desired. The Big Buddy’s advertised capability for both indoor and outdoor use, coupled with its emphasis on safety, really caught my eye.

Upon unboxing, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 felt substantial and well-built. The steel construction and porcelain-coated reflector inspire confidence, and the integrated handle makes transport easy. The swing-open doors for the propane cylinders are a nice touch, offering easy access and secure placement.

I was initially considering the smaller Mr. Heater Buddy, but the Big Buddy’s increased BTU output and integrated blower seemed worth the extra cost. Another contender was a catalytic propane heater from a different manufacturer, but the Big Buddy’s more traditional ceramic burner design felt more robust and easier to maintain. Ultimately, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 won out due to its balance of power, features, and established brand reputation.

My first impression was definitely positive. It exudes an air of quality and practicality that made me eager to put it to the test. I was hopeful that it would live up to its promises of powerful and safe heating in a variety of environments.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 was a weekend ice fishing trip in northern Minnesota. The temperatures dipped well below freezing, making a reliable heat source essential within the ice shelter. I set it up inside my portable ice fishing tent.

The heater performed admirably even in frigid conditions. The three heat settings allowed me to adjust the output as needed, and the blower fan did a great job of circulating the warm air throughout the shelter. Lighting was straightforward with the built-in piezo starter. After about 3 hours of use, the propane tank was ready to be replaced.

The only minor issue was a slight propane smell when first ignited, which dissipated quickly. I’ll need to make sure it’s well ventilated with the windows cracked to avoid any issues with that smell. Otherwise, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 exceeded my expectations on its first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 on various camping trips and in my unheated garage, I can confidently speak to its reliability. It has consistently provided a steady and adjustable heat output, making cold weather activities much more comfortable. I also use it to take the chill out of my garage when working on my motorcycle.

The heater shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being transported and used in rugged conditions. The steel construction and porcelain coating have held up well, and the non-skid pads on the base provide excellent stability on uneven surfaces. I am very satisfied with its durability.

Maintenance has been minimal. Wiping down the exterior and occasionally checking the burner for debris is all that’s needed. Compared to previous portable heaters I’ve used, the Big Buddy is significantly more robust and reliable. It delivers consistent performance and requires very little maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547

Specifications

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 is a propane-fueled portable heater designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It features a four-position heat level control knob with a built-in piezo starter, allowing for easy ignition. The heater can operate on low (4,000 BTU), medium, or high (18,000 BTU) settings.

• Fuel Type: Propane – Propane is readily available and provides a clean-burning fuel source.
• Dimensions: 19 x 11.8 x 18 inches – The heater’s size allows for convenient portability while still providing significant heating power.
• Weight: 19.6 oz – Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry during camping trips or outdoor activities.
• Safety Features: Low oxygen shutoff pilot safety system, built-in tip-over shutoff switch, thermal protection probe – These features are critical for safe operation, especially indoors.

The specifications of the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 translate directly to its real-world performance and user experience. The adjustable heat settings allow you to tailor the heat output to your specific needs, while the safety features provide peace of mind when using the heater in enclosed spaces. The weight is important for portability but it’s a nice mid-weight that doesn’t feel cheap.

Performance & Functionality

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 excels at providing consistent and adjustable heat. The piezo starter makes ignition simple, and the four heat settings offer a wide range of output options. The integrated blower fan significantly improves heat distribution, making it more effective than radiant-only heaters.

The heater’s primary strength lies in its ability to quickly and efficiently heat enclosed spaces. The blower fan is great for circulating warm air. The only area for improvement might be to make it a bit quieter.

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 exceeded my expectations. It provides a reliable, adjustable, and safe heat source for a variety of applications. It’s ideal for my needs.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 features a robust and practical design. The steel construction and porcelain-coated reflector provide durability, while the integrated handle makes it easy to carry. The swing-open doors for propane cylinder installation are a thoughtful touch, making it simple to replace empty cylinders.

The heater is designed with ease of use in mind. The four-position control knob is straightforward, and the piezo starter eliminates the need for matches or lighters. There is a slight learning curve in understanding the heat output settings.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 is built to last. The materials are rugged, and the construction is solid. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. I wipe it down after a trip. The ceramic burner tiles appear to be durable and easily replaceable if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 doesn’t offer extensive customization options. But a hose adapter is a must.

It is compatible with standard 1 lb propane cylinders and can also be connected to a larger propane tank using an optional hose adapter. The heater is not compatible with accessories from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547

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Who Should Buy Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547?

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 is perfect for:

• Ice fishermen
• Campers
• Hunters
• Anyone needing a portable heat source in garages or workshops
• Emergency preparedness

This product is not suitable for anyone who:

• Is extremely sensitive to propane odors
• Needs a heater for use in very confined spaces with poor ventilation

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• Propane hose adapter for connecting to larger propane tanks
• Carbon monoxide detector (for indoor use)

Conclusion on Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 is an excellent portable heating solution for a variety of applications. It combines powerful and adjustable heat output with essential safety features and durable construction. While there are minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

The price of $137.49 is justified by its performance, reliability, and versatility. I would highly recommend the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater 66547 to anyone seeking a dependable and safe portable heater. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends time in cold environments or needs a reliable heat source for emergency preparedness. Don’t get left in the cold – grab a Big Buddy and stay warm!