Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater Review

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater Made a Bold First Impression

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater, manufactured by Mr Heater, promises safe and reliable indoor propane heat. It is designed to provide instant warmth whenever and wherever needed. I was immediately drawn to its compact size and claims of indoor safety, making it seem like the perfect solution for my chilly early-morning hunting blinds.

I was tired of shivering in the pre-dawn hours waiting for deer to appear. Electric heaters are not an option, and larger propane heaters are too bulky for my smaller blinds. The promise of the Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater delivering safe, portable heat indoors was incredibly appealing. The heater arrived well-packaged and ready to go. The initial impression was positive, with a sturdy build and a simple, no-nonsense design. Compared to the bulkier, less refined propane heaters I’ve used in the past, this was a breath of fresh air.

I considered other options like the Coleman Catalytic Heater and the Texsport Sportsmate Propane Heater. However, the Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater’s reputation for indoor safety, thanks to its low oxygen shut-off pilot, made it the clear winner. The other options lacked this crucial safety feature. I was excited but also a little apprehensive. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be another over-promised, under-delivered piece of gear?

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

First Use Experience

My first real-world test came during a deer hunting trip in late November. The temperature was hovering around 28 degrees Fahrenheit, and the wind was biting. I set up the Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater inside my enclosed hunting blind, hooked it up to a 1lb propane tank, and fired it up. The difference was immediate and remarkable.

Within minutes, the blind became noticeably warmer. I sat comfortably for several hours, observing deer activity without the usual teeth-chattering cold. It was easy to use; simply connect the propane, push and hold the pilot button while clicking the igniter. There were no issues during the first use, and the heater performed flawlessly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater has proven to be a reliable source of heat. I’ve used it not only in my hunting blind but also in my ice fishing shelter and even during a power outage in my garage. It continues to start easily and provide consistent heat.

Durability has been excellent. Despite being jostled around in my truck and exposed to damp conditions, there are no signs of wear or tear. The heater is easy to clean; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it needs to stay in good condition. Compared to my previous experiences with less reliable portable heaters, the Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater has been a game-changer. It consistently outperforms expectations and has become an essential piece of my outdoor gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater

Specifications

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater boasts several key specifications. It is designed for indoor use with a low oxygen safety shutoff pilot. This feature ensures the heater shuts off automatically if oxygen levels drop to unsafe levels. It operates on propane, using a 1lb disposable cylinder or a 20lb tank with an optional hose.

The heater provides 4,000 or 9,000 BTU output settings. This allows users to customize the heat level based on their needs. It covers an area of up to 225 square feet. This makes it suitable for small to medium-sized enclosed spaces. These specifications matter because they directly impact the heater’s safety, efficiency, and usability in real-world scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater performs its job admirably. It provides consistent and reliable heat. The two heat settings offer flexibility depending on the external temperature and size of the space. The low oxygen shut-off is a critical safety feature.

The heater is easy to ignite and operates quietly. A slight propane odor is noticeable upon start-up but quickly dissipates. One minor weakness is the lack of a built-in fan. This could help circulate the heat more effectively. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a portable propane heater.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater features a functional and compact design. It’s made from durable materials and feels solid in hand. The weight is manageable, making it easy to transport. The integrated handle adds to its portability.

The controls are simple and intuitive. There is little to no learning curve. The heater’s footprint is relatively small. This makes it easy to position in tight spaces.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater is built to last. The metal housing protects the internal components from damage. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal.

Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good working order. Inspecting the propane connections before each use is essential for safety. The simplicity of the design also makes potential repairs relatively straightforward.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater doesn’t come with many accessories, but an optional hose and filter kit allows connection to a 20lb propane tank. This is a must-have for extended use. The heater is compatible with standard 1lb propane cylinders.

There aren’t many customization options, but the ability to use different propane tank sizes adds to its versatility. Aftermarket carrying cases are available for added protection during transport. A propane level indicator can also be added to the 20lb propane tank hose.

Pros and Cons of Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater

Who Should Buy Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater?

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater is perfect for hunters, ice fishermen, campers, and anyone needing a safe and reliable source of portable heat in enclosed spaces. It’s ideal for warming up hunting blinds, ice fishing shelters, tents, garages, and even providing emergency heat during power outages. Individuals sensitive to propane odors might want to avoid it or ensure adequate ventilation. Must-have accessories include the hose and filter kit for connecting to a 20lb propane tank and a carbon monoxide detector for added safety.

Conclusion on Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater

The Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater is a well-designed, reliable, and safe portable propane heater. At $95.99, the price is justified, given its performance and safety features. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a convenient and effective way to heat small to medium-sized enclosed spaces. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone spending time outdoors in cold weather. Don’t let the cold keep you indoors; grab a Mr Heater Portable Buddy Heater and stay warm and comfortable!