Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters Review

First Impressions of Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters promises to be a versatile heating solution for enclosed spaces, and I was eager to see if it could deliver on that promise. With my extensive background in outdoor gear, I’m always on the lookout for reliable equipment that can withstand the rigors of various environments. This heater, manufactured by Mr. Heater, immediately grabbed my attention with its ability to connect to both small and large propane tanks, offering flexibility for different scenarios.

My need for a portable heater stemmed from years of cold-weather camping and ice fishing trips where staying warm is paramount. I’ve dealt with inadequate heating solutions in the past, leading to uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous situations. I wanted a heater that was both powerful and safe to use in confined spaces like ice fishing shelters and hunting blinds.

Upon unboxing, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters felt solid and well-constructed. The materials appeared durable, and the overall design was functional, albeit a bit bulky. It weighs in at 17.1 lbs, which is noticeable but manageable considering its heating capacity.

Compared to other portable propane heaters I’ve used, such as the Coleman ProCat and the smaller Mr. Heater Buddy, the Big Buddy stood out with its higher BTU output and dual fuel capability. I chose the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters over others because of its versatility and the promise of heating larger spaces more effectively. The safety features, like the Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) and tip-over shut-off, also gave me peace of mind.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality and features seemed promising, but I reserved final judgment until I could put it through real-world testing. I was excited to see if it could truly provide comfortable, safe heat in challenging conditions.

Check Best Price HERE

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

First Use Experience

I first tested the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters during a late-season ice fishing trip on a frozen lake in northern Minnesota. The temperatures hovered around 10°F with a biting wind. I set it up inside my ice fishing shelter, which is approximately 6×8 feet, or about 48 sq ft.

The heater was relatively easy to set up, connecting two 1 lb. propane cylinders. Igniting the unit was simple with the Piezo sparking mechanism. Within minutes, the shelter began to warm up noticeably. I initially ran it on the medium setting, and it kept the inside temperature comfortable, allowing me to fish for hours without feeling the biting cold.

I did notice a slight propane odor initially, which dissipated after a few minutes. There were no other issues during the first use. The heater performed as expected, providing ample heat and making the ice fishing experience much more enjoyable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple ice fishing trips and a few sessions in my uninsulated garage while working on equipment, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters has proven to be reliable. It consistently starts easily and maintains a steady heat output. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe it down after each use and occasionally check the connections for leaks. I did notice some minor surface rust forming on the burner screen after exposure to moisture, but it hasn’t affected the performance. Compared to previous portable heaters I’ve used, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters outperforms them in terms of heating capacity and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters

Specifications

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters boasts a heating capacity of 4,000-18,000 BTU, fueled by propane. It is designed to heat enclosed spaces up to 450 sq. ft. Two swivel regulators allow for connection to either two 1 lb. cylinders or a 20 lb. cylinder using an optional hose.

• Fuel Type: Propane
• BTU Output: 4,000-18,000
• Heating Area: Up to 450 sq. ft.
• Weight: 17.1 lbs.
• Safety Features: Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS), Accidental Tip-Over Shut-Off
• Ignition: Piezo Sparking Mechanism

These specifications are crucial for its performance. The high BTU output means it can quickly and effectively heat larger spaces. The dual fuel capability adds versatility, allowing users to choose between portability and extended run time.

Performance & Functionality

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters excels at its primary function: providing reliable heat in enclosed spaces. The three heat settings (low, medium, high) offer flexibility for different temperature conditions and space sizes. The heater starts quickly and easily with the Piezo ignition, and the heat output is consistent.

One minor weakness is the initial propane odor upon ignition, which dissipates quickly. However, the safety features, including the ODS and tip-over shut-off, provide peace of mind. Overall, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters meets and exceeds expectations for a portable propane heater.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters features a functional, albeit utilitarian design. The materials are durable and the construction is solid. At 17.1 lbs, it’s not the lightest portable heater on the market, but it’s manageable.

The design is user-friendly, with a single control knob for ignition and heat settings. There’s a slight learning curve in understanding the optimal heat setting for a given space.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters appears to be built to last. The metal housing is sturdy. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and occasional inspection of the connections are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters doesn’t come with many accessories. However, the most important accessory is the optional hose for connecting to a 20 lb. propane tank. This allows for extended run times without having to constantly replace 1 lb. cylinders.

It’s compatible with standard propane fittings. This opens up possibilities for using different regulators or propane tank configurations.

Pros and Cons of Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters?

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters is perfect for:

• Hunters: Provides a reliable heat source in hunting blinds and camps.
• Ice Fishermen: Keeps ice fishing shelters warm and comfortable.
• Campers: Ideal for heating larger tents and cabins.
• Construction Workers: Offers portable heat in unheated job sites.
• Anyone Needing Emergency Heat: Serves as a backup heat source during power outages.

This product may not be ideal for backpackers due to its weight. Those who are highly sensitive to propane odors might also want to consider alternative heating solutions.

Must-have accessories include the hose for connecting to a 20 lb. propane tank for extended use. A carbon monoxide detector is always recommended when using propane heaters in enclosed spaces, even with safety features like the ODS.

Conclusion on Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters is a versatile and reliable heating solution for a wide range of applications. Its high BTU output, dual fuel capability, and safety features make it a standout product in its category. While the initial propane odor and weight are minor drawbacks, the overall performance and functionality justify its price of $147.89.

I would definitely recommend the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heaters to anyone in need of a portable, powerful, and safe heating solution. It’s an investment in comfort and safety that will pay off during cold weather adventures and emergency situations. Consider grabbing the hose attachment for the 20 lb. propane tank.