Non-Electric Space Heaters

Heating Claims Don't Add Up from Consumer Reports, February 10, 2010
"Manufacturers of electric space heaters want you to believe that using one of their devices will lower your heating bill. Lowering your home's thermostat(s) and using your main heating system less in tandem with a space heater--called zone heating--will cut your utility bill. (Every degree you lower the thermostat(s) can save you about 2 percent on your heating bill.) But keep in mind that based on current national average prices and adjusting for the energy losses due to burning a fuel, heating with electricity is about two and a half times more expensive than heating with gas, the most common heating fuel in this country."

PROS: Since these space heaters do not run on electricity, the biggest advantage is they will work during a power outage. Kerosene heaters use a dual combustion system that burns cleanly and efficiently. Both propane and kerosene are inexpensive alternative fuel sources that may be purchased ahead of time and stored safely.

CONS: Non-electric space heaters are generally considered less safe than electric heaters, mainly because handling gas can be dangerous. Their use is recommended only in emergency situations by Consumer Reports.

The most common alternatives to portable electric heaters are gas and kerosene heaters. Gas heaters can be powered by either natural gas or propane.

Disposable propane tanks are easy to use and best for emergency situations. Keep at least two bottles of the disposable propane tanks for minimum preparedness for a power outage. Propane heaters can also be hooked up to a much larger permanent (not disposable) tanks. When you purchase of a propane heater the unit will include a hose attachment and regulator.

Kerosene heaters will burn fuel slowly and efficiently. A gallon of kerosene can last 12 - 16 hours, which is longer than a wheelbarrow full of wood. Kerosene heaters are a great solution for camping, trailers, basements or garages.

Some portable gas heaters are called ventless or vent-free. They draw air from inside a room to feed the combustion of fuel and release combustion waste back into the same room. These can be hazardous. Ventless gas heaters pose many risks including suffocation from insufficient oxygen and carbon monoxide poisoning. Using these indoors is risky and in fact illegal in some states, including Massachusetts and California.

Propane heaters can be found in a price range from $80 to $250. The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Propane Heater (featured below) is a recommended brand in this price range.
Kerosene heaters will run from about $150 to $350 and natural gas heaters can be found in a price range from $130 to $230.
Of all the types of heaters reviewed, this reviewer recommends the Mr. Heater brand for any category of non-electric space heaters. They are quality built, flexible and made in the USA.