Hi and thanks for your video - great to know! In your video you stated that the Mr. Heater Big Buddy can be used with a 1 lb propane tank as well as a 20lb propane. And you said it warms up your home no problem which is great to hear - exactly what I am looking for. 1) When you used the Mr. Heater Big Buddy with the 1lb propane tanks: Where did you place the propane tank ? indoors? or outdoors? 2) When you used the Mr. Heater Big Buddy with the 20lb propane tanks: Where did you place the propane tank ? indoors? or outdoors? Please confirm. Thanks again!
I have the big buddy heater and have used it indoors and out. The big buddy has 2 compartments on either side for a 1lb. tank. When I hooked it up to a 30lb. propane tank (indoors) I also kept the tank indoors. Out of caution, I fully extended the hose and used that distance to keep the tank away from the heater.
Thank you for your informative videos - especially the most recent one for detailed DIY furnace maintenance. I came across your channel via one of Scott's (Everyday Home Repairs) videos. I have been looking for several years now for options to heat my garage here in the great frozen tundra. I am NOT looking to keep it toasty as the main house as I do not plan to work in the garage for extended periods. However, it would be nice to keep the temperature bit more manageable (compared to -5F to -25F that it can go during the day in the heart of winter) if we need to go out and get something from the freezer OR work on some things for say 1-2 hours. One of the popular options has been the Mr Buddy heater you have highlighted in this video. Although I have purchased one of these, I hesitate to use it since I have heard mixed feedback about HOW to use these. Some people claim they use it indoors (similar to what is shown in this video) whereas others claim that - if connected to a propane tank - the Mr Buddy heater needs some ventilation and we should open window or garage door slightly for fresh air and minimize CO buildup. Would appreciate some additional details on the right (& safe) way to use these - be it inside the house or in the garage. Thanks again and keep up the great work.👍
@@topperdude2007 Good point topper.. - if anyone has the user manual for the 'Mr. Heater Big Buddy" , what does it officially state in the manual...as for where it should be used. The user manual is a good first start. Thanks.
I've used the Mr. Heater Big Buddy heater for years. Works great. I would recommend using the quick connect hose with regulator sold by Mr. Heater as an accessory for using large propane tanks. It hooks up to a special nozzle inside the left door. Also, it is recommended to crack a window slightly to supply your room with oxygen as this will use up oxygen. It is equipped with a sensor to turn off if oxygen gets too low but always take precautions. Please have carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
I'll add a fourth option. Here in the south we often get sunny days while the temps outside are below freezing. I built a thermoplane using beer cans. It sits outdoors below a south facing window and is inclined to be at 90 degrees to the suns elevation. You can find the angle for your area on line. It has a double plenum that fits in the lower half of one of my windows so it pulls in room air, heats it up and returns it to the room. It provides heat from around 10am to 4pm and can raise air temp around 50 degrees per pass. It requires no electricity and can heat my den, dining room and kitchen into the upper 70's on a clear day.
@@diyhvacguy So did you turn the big propane tank on before igniting the Big buddy? And can you turn the big tank on low or does it need to be full open
I am so happy I found your channel. I used your links and purchased Mr Buddy, the 10ft hose, and filter. I am a senior citizen. Whereas, I have a huge kerosine heater, I think this is easier for me to navigate in a pinch, when, and if, there is an emergency. What a deal on the Mr Buddy,- it was less than half price! Thank you again!
We just bought a Vesta. Today we used the three cans that came with it and let it run until they burned out. One almost made it to the six hours and the other two made it a little past six hours. We were very pleased with the performance. Tomorrow I plan to cook on it and see what it can do. We got ours from Camping Survival for 94.99. Way cheaper than the Vesta company and other survival places. With tax it came to 106.??. That included free shipping. Hope this will help someone.
@@chachab9239 In my garage, I found a few ceramic or terra cotta or some kind of hard floor tiles, leftover from when they tiled the bathroom, it is 12 x 12 or thereabouts, and makes a perfect landing spot for my Vesta, to protect my wood floor, and room for the snuffer to sit beside it. I found that, if I want to just use one can, though, I have to set some dummy cans (empty, used sterno cans with LID OFF) as space holders, else when I slide the tray in, the can in the #! slot, the one under the fan, will catch and get dragged to the front. That's the only complaint I have with the Vesta. Those cans are kind of expensive, but in an emergency it's worth it.
Unfortunately, I haven't had a working furnace for many many years! I use a mr. Buddy to heat my old trailer I live in. This is my way of life and it works!! One Warning I have with this is, when mr. Buddy gets worn out it can catch fire! Fortunately, I was right there when flames began to shoot up! So don't leave it going when you're out all day at work or whatever. I usually have one big propane tank one side I never thought about having a second on the other side! Also, the heating fan is a new one I'm going to try!
No joke the Big Buddy heater has come through like a champ when power has been out. And that was just on the 1lb cans. I'll be getting hoses, filters, and 20lb tanks soon. That little heater is the business! Thanks for the reviews.
Just backing you up on the Big Buddy Heater option. I have the Little Buddy Heater with the fuel filter on it and running on a 20lb tank. It is fantastic for my smaller space and cheap to run.
01-28-2023 Update: Dave, the Big Buddy arrived this morning, and the genuine Mr. Heater filter and hose came this afternoon. All were purchased using the links in your video subscription. I like the looks, features, and quality of the heater. It will be so much easier to use at the cabin without having to deal with smelly kerosene and faulty wicks. I will be buying a propane bottle to test the heater at home. Once again, thanks for all of the great info you are providing for your viewers.
@@diyhvacguy You are very welcome, Dave. We tested the Big Buddy heater in the kitchen this morning using a 1 lb propane cylinder. The amount of heat it puts out is amazing, even on low. I noticed that the right ceramic plate only comes on (or glows) at the high setting, at which point the unit puts out more heat than the kerosene heater does. It will be perfect for those chilly mornings at our uninsulated and drafty summer cabin. All the best to you and yours!
I love my buddy 3 yrs now in my Rv .I got the hose n filter at lowes .20 gal tank lasts me month using it every Cold Night ...I Do Have Vents I Opend Up above the fridge .and detectors carbon monoxide And Oxygen... Vent Above Stove as well ...I Did Build A Brick pad To Set My Buddy On both to save my hardwood floors and absorb heat ...Keeps Me Toasty & warm And Winter Like Tonight 17°😉
Hey Dave! Furnace went out when we got a winter storm, 50 below wind chill. Wasn't fun. I will be installing a Goodman furnace soon. Great videos! Very interesting and informative.
Install wood stove. Works great for 3 weeks with no power in Marlow NH. Takes about a cord of wood that lasts about 3/4 of a month; some times more some times less depending on how cold it is; ie -20f is colder than 10f degrees. Also you can cook on the stove top as well as putting a cast iron skillet inside or on the top. Putting it inside is quicker. If you want baked potatoes put aluminum foil around them and put them in the fire for about 20-30 minutes then test with a for or knife. If you can cook on a camping grill you can cook on a wood stove. Also if you drink coffee get a camping percolator it takes longer than a stovetop does but to some of us coffee is a necessity.
#1 wood burning stove. ( I understand that not everyone has this option I have 2 ) #2 Chinese Diesel Heater ( I have 2 ) #3 kerosene heater. ( I have no IDEA why everyone skip's this wonderful product. I also have 2 ) I have 2 Buddy heaters . the top listed heaters are much cheaper to run and put out much more heat for much longer for less money. I am a preppier since 9-11. back ups for my back ups
Burning propane indoors produces carbon dioxide and water vapor. But, can produce carbon monoxide if your heater isn’t burning cleanly and completely. Propane heaters also burn up oxygen and can produce low oxygen levels in your home which can also be dangerous. Ample ventilation here is key, and having oxygen detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are good safety measures.
I hope he realizes his liability giving incorrect information. He's not aware of carbon monoxide poisoning due to burning propane indoors? He better talk to a lawyer.
@@innerlockbreaker3916 I've hooked up up 100 pound tank on 30000 btu wall heater which is bigger version of Mr.heater. You can but you need to get pressure regulator since bigger tank has more pressure. Buy propane hose with pressure regulator on it. You can google what pressure regulator looks like.
In case no one has said it, galvanized finishes outgas TOXIC gases when heated! If you have to use galvanized, put it in a wood fire OUTSIDE to burn off the finish BEFORE you use it indoors.
Hi Dave. I'm a new subscriber within the past month. Based on this video, I just ordered the Mr. Heater Big Buddy (Price now down to $112), the propane filter, and a hose. I have an off grid summer cabin that has a wood stove and a Kero World heater. My plan is to use the Big Buddy in place of the kerosene heater. It is also something that can be brought home at the end of the season to use in case of a power failure. Thank you for your video!
Check out using food chafing fuel. Put under an 8 or 10 inch clay pot for heat and or light. The cans of chafing fuel can be stored for a very long time.
Some really good ideas. Another would be one of those Honeywell room sized heaters and a power station. Those heaters work really well, give off zero fumes and will turn off if they are accidentally knocked over. They have a thermostat so are pretty efficient. Probably would take a medium to large power station to run one, though.
MH18B Big Buddy Heater Run Time (2) 1-lb bottles: 10.8 hours on low (2) 1-lb bottles: 4.8 hours on med (2) 1-lb bottles: 2.4 hours on high 20 lb tank: about 92 hours on low 20 lb tank: about 41 hours on med 20-lb tank: about 20 hours on high
I have three Kerosine heaters - great, even heat, pretty economical with just moderate work. Large round style burns about 12 hours on one fill-up, the smaller rectangular style run about 20-24 hours on one fill-up. Two of the smaller ones work better in most homes. Spread the heat out, plus they can be placed closer to the walls instead of having to sit in the middle of the room.
Some insurance companies won't pay for a stolen car if it was running unattended. But, great video. I did not hear anything about propane heat requiring ventilation. I would definitely leave a window cracked a bit for oxygen. The diesel heater is a great idea for homeowners but not for apartments.
For the Diesel Heater, while I don't have the Vevor model (I bought the kind used for campers/semi trucks when I converted my cargo van into a camper), I could personally vouch for how extremely efficient they are at putting heat into an interior space. Not only that, but they will actually also work with a vary large variety of fuel sources, including gasoline and kerosene. I wouldn't personally recommend use gasoline as its way more flammable and have always just stuck with diesel, however in a SHTF/mass infrastructure collapse due to natural disasters, if you don't have access to diesel, you could always substitute it for something else, just be careful on the dangers of flammability. Also another thing about those heaters: You could buy another hose for the air intake, and place that in the house as well, which will significantly improve the efficiency of the heater. If you want to really go to the extreme, the temp of the exhaust is something like 1,100 degrees F. So what I did to take advantage of that 'lost' heat: 1. Build a make shift "chimney" by buying one of those exhaust pipes for NG water heaters then cut out the inner insert of the pipe (they're usually double walled for thermal control, but we don't want that...we want the heat to escape from the sides of the pipe). 2. Insert the exhaust of the heater to the bottom of the pipe (the heater & chimney would be placed indoors) and fill the pipe with river rocks from the gardening section of Lowe's/HD. 3. The top of the pipe would be directed to the outside via like a window or something. Depending on the heat of the exhaust, you might want to follow all safety precautions such as using double walled insulating pipe/flanges, etc to prevent possible house catching on fire. 4. Obviously, ensure you properly weld or otherwise seal any possible gaps to prevent exhaust from filling up the interior space causing CO poisoning. Maintenance: If you run the heater on a low heat setting, expect a lot of soot to develop and get caked on the rocks. Most of the time, you might be able to just burn the soot off by leaving the heater on high for like 30-45 min. Usually what I'd do is just run the heater on low setting throughout the season to conserve fuel consumption, then by the end of the season, I'd drain all the rocks from the chimney and hand clean/scrub the soot off before placing everything in storage for the following year. Either that, or I'd just toss the rocks in my backyard/flowerbed, and just buy a new bag of rocks from the store come winter time since they're fairly cheap. Now, the reason why I chose to fill the chimney with rocks is to increase the heat capacity of the chimney. So when the heater will either slow down, or stop altogether because it has reached its desired temp, the chimney will actually continue to slowly release heat into the room which will reduce the amount of times the heater will need to kick on. Combined with the air intake also recycling the air from inside the house vs taking fresh but cold air from outside, you'd be looking at one HECK of a super efficient heater that can last you feeling comfortable for a very long time on just a gallon a diesel. With the experiences I've had using this setup, I'd be able to last through an entire winter season keeping my house between 68-72 on -maybe- 5 gal of diesel and no other sources of heat. Sorry for the long post, but I appreciate if you've stuck around. I don't consider myself to be the smartest type of guy, but love watching these types of videos to get inspired by other people's creativity/ingenuity. If you've found my idea helpful, I'd love to hear/learn if you've come up with other ideas to further improve this design. This is the type of thing I love hanging out on youtube for.
I heat a 2000 ft2 house with an 8kw Vevor like shown in the video. I exhaust thru a window. Because of the size of the house it runs 24/7, 12vdc battery connected to a 12vdc battery charger. I tried recovering the exhaust heat but had carbon problems. The installation guide limits the exhaust to 1 meter. I can stay about 20 - 25 degf above outdoor temp.
@@stevethompson8171I wonder about running the exhaust into and out of a 30 gallon steel drum for low resistance but a large increase in radiation surface.
You can use a quick connect hose on the Big Buddy. The connection is next to the propane bottle fitting, in the left compartment (Left, if you're looking at the burners)
Your subscriber count is rising! These Big Buddy heaters are good. I use one in my shed which doubles as a cigar room, does a nice job of heating up that 10x15 shed in cold weather. Get the model with the built-in fan.
I have seen rave reviews of the diesel heaters. I own a Little Buddy propane heater, it takes the edge off nicely when the power goes out. I can imagine the Big Buddy working nicely, with a heat powered fan, especially with the additional fuel. Great reviews. We replaced our old heating fuel furnace with a new gas unit, so I will be getting backup power, with solar charging as described in another of your videos. Seven new reno windows will help hold the heat in nicely too.
I use the little buddy as of now. Looking to get the big buddy as well. But I use a little heat powered fan. It does well with the little buddy. I got it off of Amazon, its a 3 blade and considerably smaller. Just an fyi.
@@LeviLee88 I’ve been looking for a recommended heat activated fan for the big Buddy, you bought off Amazon, plz can you share the specific link (or if anyone else can I’d greatly appreciate it). Thank you!
If you have a system that can recirculate the air it can be mounted like that for better efficiency, however the exhaust gas is very hot and you would need a safe way of exhausting it. In an emergency situation this is probably a better option with less chance of CO leaking into the house. The fresh air intake should also be external as it is part of the combustion unit. I have a permanently mounted one to heat my garage but the exhaust goes though a cinderblock wall with exhaust gaskets, it will burn any wood, plastic, etc that it touches. You don't want to run too long of an exhaust pipe either or you may end up with soot/exhaust clogging and forming exhaust restrictions which can be dangerous. The biggest issue with this mounting is that the unit may need to be sheltered from the rain/moisture, and if it has a thermostat it may not be effective unless run indoors.
Just a tip. The diesel heater should be indoors because of the fuel jelling up because of the cold. Just make sure you put an exhaust tube outside with the intake tube obviously inside.
Not only that, but if you have the unit inside (along with a few CO detectors), you're heating (reheating) 70 degree air rather than 25 degree air. Temp check on my duct is around 230 degrees. It keeps 1500 square feet anywhere from 68 to 72 depending on how close you are to the output. Blow the heat down and heat the floor for best results, IMO.
i had never heard of 2/3 of these. that vevor heater looks interesting. i have run the mr heater off a 100lb tank. might be interest in a snozzle. nat gas is very pricey in cali
Awesome video!!!! I have a big buddy heater and it works great also sage CO levels but yeah it does reduce O2 levels so adequate ventilation required Very interested in the diesel unit and will check this out We are in Wisconsin do this information good to have Thank You for posting!
@dianacramer4747 An open flame of any kind can start a fire. I have not had any issues using the cooking oil in the containers that came with the heater. The oil creates a flame Just as the original liquid in the can, nothing bigger doesn't go down inside the can. I did have to make the opening on the cans a little bigger to fill them with cooking oil, but not much bigger.
What up Doe Mr DIY!? With the diesel heater I've seen it hooked up with a 12v cigarette adapter and connected to a Ecoflow delta. Also you can add solar panels to the delta for extended run time. Great vid👍🏻
Off-topic question..... Could you possibly make a video on how to connect the ducts to the bottom of a down flow air handler on a double wide mobile home. A how to on how to replace the crossover duct on a double wide mobile home as well. I want to replace my system with a heat pump, and I really want to redo the duct connection where the air handler mounts on the floor. I also want to replace my crossover over duct as well. Thank you so much!
I just saw a new deisel heater that has a dial on the front. Less power consumption and very simple operation. Deisel is the most efficient heat i believe. Plus no moister. And you can bu silent fuel pums now too.
I believe the Mr. Heaters are good options for lower budgets and less lead time for natural gas furnace owners. Installing a higher BTU gas wall unit in a living room would probably be a better long term bet. Keeping the main room a bit warmer with the HVAC thermostat set a few degrees cooler can pay for itself, and it's still there to crank out 30k-50k BTU when the power is out. If you have a vent hood over your stove (which you should), a simple alcohol stove will do a better job of heating a kettle of hot water or cooking a simple meal. Those stoves can be a $15 Trangia or an old catfood can filled with alcohol. They shouldn't be left burning for hours, but the CO and C02 from a 15 minute session should easily escape through the stove vent when the air is warm. Without them being heated, those gases will settle at floor level.
The other benefit of the diesel heater setup like that, it would create a positive air pressure in your home so that it would eliminate drafts from cracks and unsealed windows!
I’m surprised you didn’t include kerosene heaters. People use them all the time in garages or emergency heater. Like propane, ventilation and monoxide detectors are key; but they are cheaper to run and produce more heat than propane for a similar purchase price
Thank you Dave for this valuable information, which may end up saving someone's life! The link for the Vevor Diesel Heater is not working, I traced it to the "Mr" at the end of the link address, the "Mr" should not be there. This heater shows a heat output on the website of 3 kW, which is 10,000 BTUs. Apparently, these Chinese diesel heaters have several problems that cause the unit to quit working after a few uses but, there are numerous RUclips videos that provide solutions to make the unit reliable.
I have 4 months run time on mine, running 12-14 hours a day. But for the last 2 weeks, it runs on H3 setting medium heat for 24/7 non stop. It quit from contaminated red diesel fuel a month ago. I had an extra pump on hand and added a 1/4 inch small engine fuel filter in the suction line, a 15 minute job to complete. The refueling jug stirs sediments up but the filter takes care of that.
This probably means you can hook it up to a portable power bank that has the adapter for jumper cables I used to carry one of those things around and it actually helped keeping well help somebody whose car I had died get their car back to going I kept it around for quite some time because you could use that power bank with its adapter to charge your phone or if you had a car to start your car so I'm wondering if it would also work with this machine that you showed.
Best way to use those all in one diesel heaters and that's how they were originally intended to be used ... I wouldn't trust the Chineseium exhaust and fittings not to leak exhaust fumes inside.. Likewise you don't want to be spilling diesel inside your home.. a length of 3 core flex and 6x wire connectors (I use wagos) to bring the controller inside. Those worrying about waxing diesel once running the heat from the heater takes the chill off the top mounted fuel tank The exhaust can get very very hot I have had a near miss with the all in one when a rag fell off my bench and landed on the exhaust fortunately I saw it drop and instantly melt managed to grab it before it caught fire... I've just installed one on the wall of my shed via a turret plate mounted horizontal with the fuel pipe / glow plug uppermost so all fuel / exhaust connections are outside and the unit can warm already warmed air increasing efficiency.. if you get waxing use kerosene it burns cleaner but with a touch less heat output....
Hi, I also have a Blue Flame (Ethanol) Alcohol burning Fireplace which is not energy efficient at all and a Kerosene Heater (that one is VERY energy efficient) both are backups along with the Big Buddy Propane heater. I am understanding that there is no conflict of an any gas off or any fumes to run those indoors if two of them had to be used at the same time…although I would be cracking a window for sure. Any safety advice from mixture of fumes? I would’ve preferred a wood stove but that’s not in the cards at the moment. Yes I have bought 2 different plug in-battery backup detectors for carbon monoxide, propane and Natural Gas. Thank you!
My understanding is when using a 20 lb propane tank, you should keep the tank outside. The connection will usually leak a bit of propane which is toxic. The one pound tanks do not have this issue.
Shifting the fan back will redirect the heat towards the handle and will melt the handle. Luckily I caught it before the melted plastic caught on fire. 😅
@@JaneH3675 All heaters, gas or electric are inherently dangerous. Follow instructions and they are safe. Plus, common sense means never use a fuel heater inside when sleeping or not at home. Be sure to keep a window slightly open to provide air for combustion.
The diesel heater is designed to be indoors because diesel fuel will jell up in cold weather, so the fuel will become unusable if it remains outside, the diesel heater should be inside, but you rout that small exhaust pipe outside, also, the diesel heater company, should make a tube that attaches to the hot air outlet, that has several peltier devices mounted onto the tube, this way, the only time you are using your 12 volt source is during start up, but once the heater starts making heat, the peltier devices, can then supply the 12 volt source, so it can not only run the fan, but charge your battery back up, from whatever source you used, as your start up voltage. That would make a simple, low cost improvement to that heater.
Awesome video, Vevor is a super cheap chinese company that sells a ton of tools and other items. For being super cheap they are actually not too bad considering..
Can u do a video of setting up the big buddy heater with two tanks and two hoses ?? Do you open 1 tank at a time to use or have both tanks open ? Thank you 🙏
All products and tools can be found here! ➡️ www.amazon.com/shop/thediyhvacguy?ref=ac_inf_tb_vh
Hi and thanks for your video - great to know!
In your video you stated that the Mr. Heater Big Buddy can be used with a 1 lb propane tank as well as a 20lb propane.
And you said it warms up your home no problem which is great to hear - exactly what I am looking for.
1) When you used the Mr. Heater Big Buddy with the 1lb propane tanks:
Where did you place the propane tank ? indoors? or outdoors?
2) When you used the Mr. Heater Big Buddy with the 20lb propane tanks:
Where did you place the propane tank ? indoors? or outdoors?
Please confirm. Thanks again!
I have the big buddy heater and have used it indoors and out. The big buddy has 2 compartments on either side for a 1lb. tank. When I hooked it up to a 30lb. propane tank (indoors) I also kept the tank indoors. Out of caution, I fully extended the hose and used that distance to keep the tank away from the heater.
Thank you for your informative videos - especially the most recent one for detailed DIY furnace maintenance. I came across your channel via one of Scott's (Everyday Home Repairs) videos.
I have been looking for several years now for options to heat my garage here in the great frozen tundra. I am NOT looking to keep it toasty as the main house as I do not plan to work in the garage for extended periods. However, it would be nice to keep the temperature bit more manageable (compared to -5F to -25F that it can go during the day in the heart of winter) if we need to go out and get something from the freezer OR work on some things for say 1-2 hours.
One of the popular options has been the Mr Buddy heater you have highlighted in this video. Although I have purchased one of these, I hesitate to use it since I have heard mixed feedback about HOW to use these. Some people claim they use it indoors (similar to what is shown in this video) whereas others claim that - if connected to a propane tank - the Mr Buddy heater needs some ventilation and we should open window or garage door slightly for fresh air and minimize CO buildup.
Would appreciate some additional details on the right (& safe) way to use these - be it inside the house or in the garage.
Thanks again and keep up the great work.👍
@@topperdude2007 Good point topper.. - if anyone has the user manual for the 'Mr. Heater Big Buddy" , what does it officially state in the manual...as for where it should be used. The user manual is a good first start. Thanks.
The metal grid you used on the small propane heater is called a "Pot screen". That is the correct name. Have fun asking for them at the stores. 😊
I've used the Mr. Heater Big Buddy heater for years. Works great. I would recommend using the quick connect hose with regulator sold by Mr. Heater as an accessory for using large propane tanks. It hooks up to a special nozzle inside the left door. Also, it is recommended to crack a window slightly to supply your room with oxygen as this will use up oxygen. It is equipped with a sensor to turn off if oxygen gets too low but always take precautions. Please have carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
I have been doing the same . Fixed income .
I'll add a fourth option. Here in the south we often get sunny days while the temps outside are below freezing. I built a thermoplane using beer cans. It sits outdoors below a south facing window and is inclined to be at 90 degrees to the suns elevation. You can find the angle for your area on line. It has a double plenum that fits in the lower half of one of my windows so it pulls in room air, heats it up and returns it to the room. It provides heat from around 10am to 4pm and can raise air temp around 50 degrees per pass. It requires no electricity and can heat my den, dining room and kitchen into the upper 70's on a clear day.
I’d love to see some pictures of this! Maybe I can create it and share in a video. Could you email me some pictures? Diyhvacguy@gmail.com
Cheers!
@@diyhvacguy It's on RUclips, tin can solar heaters. Any cans will work. They are a bit to involved to make, but when done work quite well.
@@diyhvacguy So did you turn the big propane tank on before igniting the Big buddy? And can you turn the big tank on low or does it need to be full open
Solar air heater. Use a double bug screen (black) or landscape fabric as your collector medium for improved efficiency and less assembly headache.
I'm considering building a second one using corrugated tin as the heat ex-changer just for the simplicity of it.
If you have a fire place put your propane heater into your fire place crack the vent for fume draw works well.
I am so happy I found your channel. I used your links and purchased Mr Buddy, the 10ft hose, and filter. I am a senior citizen. Whereas, I have a huge kerosine heater, I think this is easier for me to navigate in a pinch, when, and if, there is an emergency. What a deal on the Mr Buddy,- it was less than half price! Thank you again!
We just bought a Vesta. Today we used the three cans that came with it and let it run until they burned out. One almost made it to the six hours and the other two made it a little past six hours. We were very pleased with the performance. Tomorrow I plan to cook on it and see what it can do. We got ours from Camping Survival for 94.99. Way cheaper than the Vesta company and other survival places. With tax it came to 106.??. That included free shipping. Hope this will help someone.
I have the Vesta as one of my heating and cooking solutions. I bought a few cases of Members Mark Safe Heat at Sam’s Club for 12/$20 also.
@@cocacolafiesta Sounds great.
I’d feel safer to put vesta on layer of bricks for added safety.
@@chachab9239 That is a good idea. I have a few of the large floor tiles, I wonder if that would work.
@@chachab9239 In my garage, I found a few ceramic or terra cotta or some kind of hard floor tiles, leftover from when they tiled the bathroom, it is 12 x 12 or thereabouts, and makes a perfect landing spot for my Vesta, to protect my wood floor, and room for the snuffer to sit beside it. I found that, if I want to just use one can, though, I have to set some dummy cans (empty, used sterno cans with LID OFF) as space holders, else when I slide the tray in, the can in the #! slot, the one under the fan, will catch and get dragged to the front. That's the only complaint I have with the Vesta. Those cans are kind of expensive, but in an emergency it's worth it.
Unfortunately, I haven't had a working furnace for many many years! I use a mr. Buddy to heat my old trailer I live in. This is my way of life and it works!! One Warning I have with this is, when mr. Buddy gets worn out it can catch fire! Fortunately, I was right there when flames began to shoot up! So don't leave it going when you're out all day at work or whatever. I usually have one big propane tank one side I never thought about having a second on the other side! Also, the heating fan is a new one I'm going to try!
Buy the mr buddy hose that dont need the filter. its only around 10 to 15.00 higher but will save you that on ONE FILTER..
No joke the Big Buddy heater has come through like a champ when power has been out. And that was just on the 1lb cans. I'll be getting hoses, filters, and 20lb tanks soon. That little heater is the business! Thanks for the reviews.
Just backing you up on the Big Buddy Heater option. I have the Little Buddy Heater with the fuel filter on it and running on a 20lb tank. It is fantastic for my smaller space and cheap to run.
For anyone that wishes to do the same DONT SKIP THE FILTER!!! Ask me how I know lol.
Great tip!
@@J0shua029 Did you buy the Mr Heater hose for it or and aftermarket one, there is a differents
What a great video! Still helpful in 2025.
01-28-2023 Update: Dave, the Big Buddy arrived this morning, and the genuine Mr. Heater filter and hose came this afternoon. All were purchased using the links in your video subscription. I like the looks, features, and quality of the heater. It will be so much easier to use at the cabin without having to deal with smelly kerosene and faulty wicks. I will be buying a propane bottle to test the heater at home. Once again, thanks for all of the great info you are providing for your viewers.
Thanks so much for the support! Cheers friend
@@diyhvacguy You are very welcome, Dave. We tested the Big Buddy heater in the kitchen this morning using a 1 lb propane cylinder. The amount of heat it puts out is amazing, even on low. I noticed that the right ceramic plate only comes on (or glows) at the high setting, at which point the unit puts out more heat than the kerosene heater does. It will be perfect for those chilly mornings at our uninsulated and drafty summer cabin. All the best to you and yours!
Wood stove properly installed is hard to beat. A wall mount propane heater is useful too
It’s a good idea to place some sort of nonflammables like bricks under anything with high heat or flame.
Maybe having a fire extinguisher close by would be in order.
Great video!
Best wishes!
Fire blankets are cleaner.
I love my buddy 3 yrs now in my Rv .I got the hose n filter at lowes .20 gal tank lasts me month using it every Cold Night ...I Do Have Vents I Opend Up above the fridge .and detectors carbon monoxide And Oxygen... Vent Above Stove as well ...I Did Build A Brick pad To Set My Buddy On both to save my hardwood floors and absorb heat ...Keeps Me Toasty & warm And Winter Like Tonight 17°😉
Hey Dave! Furnace went out when we got a winter storm, 50 below wind chill. Wasn't fun. I will be installing a Goodman furnace soon. Great videos! Very interesting and informative.
If you need some help with finding equipment and the install side of things feel free to email me at diyhvacguy@gmail.com Cheers, Dave
Any complete Goodman system is under $500 don't let them run you up to far! Just bc ur at the end of road 😉
Install wood stove. Works great for 3 weeks with no power in Marlow NH. Takes about a cord of wood that lasts about 3/4 of a month; some times more some times less depending on how cold it is; ie -20f is colder than 10f degrees. Also you can cook on the stove top as well as putting a cast iron skillet inside or on the top. Putting it inside is quicker. If you want baked potatoes put aluminum foil around them and put them in the fire for about 20-30 minutes then test with a for or knife. If you can cook on a camping grill you can cook on a wood stove. Also if you drink coffee get a camping percolator it takes longer than a stovetop does but to some of us coffee is a necessity.
Thank you!
#1 wood burning stove. ( I understand that not everyone has this option I have 2 )
#2 Chinese Diesel Heater ( I have 2 )
#3 kerosene heater. ( I have no IDEA why everyone skip's this wonderful product. I also have 2 )
I have 2 Buddy heaters . the top listed heaters are much cheaper to run and put out much more heat for much longer for less money.
I am a preppier since 9-11. back ups for my back ups
Burning propane indoors produces carbon dioxide and water vapor. But, can produce carbon monoxide if your heater isn’t burning cleanly and completely. Propane heaters also burn up oxygen and can produce low oxygen levels in your home which can also be dangerous. Ample ventilation here is key, and having oxygen detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are good safety measures.
I hope he realizes his liability giving incorrect information. He's not aware of carbon monoxide poisoning due to burning propane indoors? He better talk to a lawyer.
The heaters are absolutely safe to use indoors and I have seen this tested. He's not the one giving incorrect advice. You are.
@@leodanryan966 Do you know if it would be safe to hook the buddy heater up to a 30lb propane cylinder?
@@innerlockbreaker3916l have ran mine off a 30lb tank, for around 10 hrs or so no problems
@@innerlockbreaker3916 I've hooked up up 100 pound tank on 30000 btu wall heater which is bigger version of Mr.heater. You can but you need to get pressure regulator since bigger tank has more pressure. Buy propane hose with pressure regulator on it. You can google what pressure regulator looks like.
In case no one has said it, galvanized finishes outgas TOXIC gases when heated! If you have to use galvanized, put it in a wood fire OUTSIDE to burn off the finish BEFORE you use it indoors.
How grate is those heaters, and the cost wow. Thank you, good to know, good job,
OG xbox... All these useful tips and tests. You sir are a man of culture.
good job
Hi Dave. I'm a new subscriber within the past month. Based on this video, I just ordered the Mr. Heater Big Buddy (Price now down to $112), the propane filter, and a hose. I have an off grid summer cabin that has a wood stove and a Kero World heater. My plan is to use the Big Buddy in place of the kerosene heater. It is also something that can be brought home at the end of the season to use in case of a power failure. Thank you for your video!
You read my mind, just what I was looking for, thank you for doing this video 😊👍
Got two of the smaller units 4000/9000 btu they work great. Also got a 50k btu heater which I used in a very old house that I heated with wood.
Check out using food chafing fuel. Put under an 8 or 10 inch clay pot for heat and or light. The cans of chafing fuel can be stored for a very long time.
Thanks, very informative. I have Mr. heater big body, but that diesel heater is impressive.
Some really good ideas. Another would be one of those Honeywell room sized heaters and a power station. Those heaters work really well, give off zero fumes and will turn off if they are accidentally knocked over. They have a thermostat so are pretty efficient. Probably would take a medium to large power station to run one, though.
Thank you for your informative video. You have heat sources that I haven’t seen anywhere else
Great video , thankyou for showing all this .
Last option harder to do .
Great Information for Right now Actually 👍😊
MH18B Big Buddy Heater Run Time
(2) 1-lb bottles: 10.8 hours on low
(2) 1-lb bottles: 4.8 hours on med
(2) 1-lb bottles: 2.4 hours on high
20 lb tank: about 92 hours on low
20 lb tank: about 41 hours on med
20-lb tank: about 20 hours on high
I have three Kerosine heaters - great, even heat, pretty economical with just moderate work. Large round style burns about 12 hours on one fill-up, the smaller rectangular style run about 20-24 hours on one fill-up. Two of the smaller ones work better in most homes. Spread the heat out, plus they can be placed closer to the walls instead of having to sit in the middle of the room.
Some insurance companies won't pay for a stolen car if it was running unattended. But, great video. I did not hear anything about propane heat requiring ventilation. I would definitely leave a window cracked a bit for oxygen. The diesel heater is a great idea for homeowners but not for apartments.
Just came across your video, living in the south rhese ideas come in handy, you have a new subscriber Sir..Thank you for your knowledge ❤
For the Diesel Heater, while I don't have the Vevor model (I bought the kind used for campers/semi trucks when I converted my cargo van into a camper), I could personally vouch for how extremely efficient they are at putting heat into an interior space. Not only that, but they will actually also work with a vary large variety of fuel sources, including gasoline and kerosene. I wouldn't personally recommend use gasoline as its way more flammable and have always just stuck with diesel, however in a SHTF/mass infrastructure collapse due to natural disasters, if you don't have access to diesel, you could always substitute it for something else, just be careful on the dangers of flammability.
Also another thing about those heaters: You could buy another hose for the air intake, and place that in the house as well, which will significantly improve the efficiency of the heater. If you want to really go to the extreme, the temp of the exhaust is something like 1,100 degrees F. So what I did to take advantage of that 'lost' heat:
1. Build a make shift "chimney" by buying one of those exhaust pipes for NG water heaters then cut out the inner insert of the pipe (they're usually double walled for thermal control, but we don't want that...we want the heat to escape from the sides of the pipe).
2. Insert the exhaust of the heater to the bottom of the pipe (the heater & chimney would be placed indoors) and fill the pipe with river rocks from the gardening section of Lowe's/HD.
3. The top of the pipe would be directed to the outside via like a window or something. Depending on the heat of the exhaust, you might want to follow all safety precautions such as using double walled insulating pipe/flanges, etc to prevent possible house catching on fire.
4. Obviously, ensure you properly weld or otherwise seal any possible gaps to prevent exhaust from filling up the interior space causing CO poisoning.
Maintenance: If you run the heater on a low heat setting, expect a lot of soot to develop and get caked on the rocks. Most of the time, you might be able to just burn the soot off by leaving the heater on high for like 30-45 min. Usually what I'd do is just run the heater on low setting throughout the season to conserve fuel consumption, then by the end of the season, I'd drain all the rocks from the chimney and hand clean/scrub the soot off before placing everything in storage for the following year. Either that, or I'd just toss the rocks in my backyard/flowerbed, and just buy a new bag of rocks from the store come winter time since they're fairly cheap.
Now, the reason why I chose to fill the chimney with rocks is to increase the heat capacity of the chimney. So when the heater will either slow down, or stop altogether because it has reached its desired temp, the chimney will actually continue to slowly release heat into the room which will reduce the amount of times the heater will need to kick on. Combined with the air intake also recycling the air from inside the house vs taking fresh but cold air from outside, you'd be looking at one HECK of a super efficient heater that can last you feeling comfortable for a very long time on just a gallon a diesel. With the experiences I've had using this setup, I'd be able to last through an entire winter season keeping my house between 68-72 on -maybe- 5 gal of diesel and no other sources of heat.
Sorry for the long post, but I appreciate if you've stuck around. I don't consider myself to be the smartest type of guy, but love watching these types of videos to get inspired by other people's creativity/ingenuity. If you've found my idea helpful, I'd love to hear/learn if you've come up with other ideas to further improve this design. This is the type of thing I love hanging out on youtube for.
I have a small barn, non insulated & I have done what you described ( I used a small heater core). I can truly say, these diesel heaters are great
I always appreciate comments from those “in the know”…Thank you!❤
Do you think you can post a video on RUclips on it.
I heat a 2000 ft2 house with an 8kw Vevor like shown in the video. I exhaust thru a window. Because of the size of the house it runs 24/7, 12vdc battery connected to a 12vdc battery charger. I tried recovering the exhaust heat but had carbon problems. The installation guide limits the exhaust to 1 meter. I can stay about 20 - 25 degf above outdoor temp.
@@stevethompson8171I wonder about running the exhaust into and out of a 30 gallon steel drum for low resistance but a large increase in radiation surface.
I have a 5L suitcase diesel heater on wheels. It is awesome
good show...
Well done sir, great video!
So appreciate this information! Thank you so much!
Great Video lots of great information! - Thank you for filming this episode
Very informative video thanks for sharing ❤
Thanks for the info! Great to always have back up heat.
Please can you tell us the actual name of the second heater as I'm having trouble finding it on Amazon? Thank you. Great video
I personally like an alcohol stove. You can cook and heat. The only emissions is water vapor
Excellent information, thank you!
Thank you very, very much.
I like that Deisel heater. You could. Put a cig lighter adaptor on it and plug it into a solar power generator.
You can use a quick connect hose on the Big Buddy. The connection is next to the propane bottle fitting, in the left compartment (Left, if you're looking at the burners)
Thank you,
All good recommendations! Thanks for sharing this. 👍
Your subscriber count is rising! These Big Buddy heaters are good. I use one in my shed which doubles as a cigar room, does a nice job of heating up that 10x15 shed in cold weather. Get the model with the built-in fan.
I think they stop making that model.The new ones are fanless
According to Mr Heater folks, you can still buy the fan model at many big box stores as of 11/2023@@chris8383
I just got a Big Buddy for $99 at L&M Fleet Supply in Grand Rapids Minnesota.
I have seen rave reviews of the diesel heaters. I own a Little Buddy propane heater, it takes the edge off nicely when the power goes out. I can imagine the Big Buddy working nicely, with a heat powered fan, especially with the additional fuel. Great reviews. We replaced our old heating fuel furnace with a new gas unit, so I will be getting backup power, with solar charging as described in another of your videos. Seven new reno windows will help hold the heat in nicely too.
I use the little buddy as of now. Looking to get the big buddy as well. But I use a little heat powered fan. It does well with the little buddy. I got it off of Amazon, its a 3 blade and considerably smaller. Just an fyi.
@@LeviLee88 I’ve been looking for a recommended heat activated fan for the big Buddy, you bought off Amazon, plz can you share the specific link (or if anyone else can I’d greatly appreciate it). Thank you!
Diesel Heaters are really good for RV and Vans .. especially if your vehicle runs off diesel
Good job hvac comrade... I'm not going to make a fuss like the other HVAC guys are doing here😂 guud job man🤙
I believe the diesel can/should be indoors with the exhaust and intake being directed outdoors. They're designed for use in RV's, boats and such.
If you have a system that can recirculate the air it can be mounted like that for better efficiency, however the exhaust gas is very hot and you would need a safe way of exhausting it. In an emergency situation this is probably a better option with less chance of CO leaking into the house. The fresh air intake should also be external as it is part of the combustion unit.
I have a permanently mounted one to heat my garage but the exhaust goes though a cinderblock wall with exhaust gaskets, it will burn any wood, plastic, etc that it touches. You don't want to run too long of an exhaust pipe either or you may end up with soot/exhaust clogging and forming exhaust restrictions which can be dangerous.
The biggest issue with this mounting is that the unit may need to be sheltered from the rain/moisture, and if it has a thermostat it may not be effective unless run indoors.
Just a tip. The diesel heater should be indoors because of the fuel jelling up because of the cold. Just make sure you put an exhaust tube outside with the intake tube obviously inside.
I know of guys I Canada that camp with these in snow and they leave them outside with no issues. You can always put fuel stabilizer in them.
Not only that, but if you have the unit inside (along with a few CO detectors), you're heating (reheating) 70 degree air rather than 25 degree air. Temp check on my duct is around 230 degrees. It keeps 1500 square feet anywhere from 68 to 72 depending on how close you are to the output. Blow the heat down and heat the floor for best results, IMO.
great info. thanks
i had never heard of 2/3 of these. that vevor heater looks interesting. i have run the mr heater off a 100lb tank. might be interest in a snozzle. nat gas is very pricey in cali
Awesome video!!!!
I have a big buddy heater and it works great also sage CO levels but yeah it does reduce O2 levels so adequate ventilation required
Very interested in the diesel unit and will check this out
We are in Wisconsin do this information good to have
Thank You for posting!
Great info & useful. Thank you for your posting.
Take care,
God Bless
On the Vesta heater you can save money when your fuel cans are empty use cooking oil instead.
will the cooking oil start a fire
@dianacramer4747 An open flame of any kind can start a fire. I have not had any issues using the cooking oil in the containers that came with the heater. The oil creates a flame
Just as the original liquid in the can, nothing bigger doesn't go down inside the can. I did have to make the opening on the cans a little bigger to fill them with cooking oil, but not much bigger.
Should have air inlet somewhere when running one of these, correct?
What up Doe Mr DIY!?
With the diesel heater I've seen it hooked up with a 12v cigarette adapter and connected to a Ecoflow delta. Also you can add solar panels to the delta for extended run time.
Great vid👍🏻
Off-topic question.....
Could you possibly make a video on how to connect the ducts to the bottom of a down flow air handler on a double wide mobile home. A how to on how to replace the crossover duct on a double wide mobile home as well. I want to replace my system with a heat pump, and I really want to redo the duct connection where the air handler mounts on the floor. I also want to replace my crossover over duct as well. Thank you so much!
Thank you for a great video.
Thanks for the video.
I just saw a new deisel heater that has a dial on the front. Less power consumption and very simple operation. Deisel is the most efficient heat i believe. Plus no moister. And you can bu silent fuel pums now too.
What brand was that diesel heater w the dial on the front? L👀King.
Thanks for sharing 😊
Thank you
Can you use solar for the last heater? Really good video . Thanks
Your videos are awesome .
Nice" If you only had the car battery in the house' would the heater still work only with the heater remote an jumper cable connected?
How long does a take of Diesel last heating wise before you need to refill the Diesel??
I believe the Mr. Heaters are good options for lower budgets and less lead time for natural gas furnace owners.
Installing a higher BTU gas wall unit in a living room would probably be a better long term bet. Keeping the main room a bit warmer with the HVAC thermostat set a few degrees cooler can pay for itself, and it's still there to crank out 30k-50k BTU when the power is out.
If you have a vent hood over your stove (which you should), a simple alcohol stove will do a better job of heating a kettle of hot water or cooking a simple meal. Those stoves can be a $15 Trangia or an old catfood can filled with alcohol. They shouldn't be left burning for hours, but the CO and C02 from a 15 minute session should easily escape through the stove vent when the air is warm. Without them being heated, those gases will settle at floor level.
Thank you as always great content 😊
Can u use a jumper box for the diesel heater
Awesome!
Does it come with two propane tanks? Amazon has it for $112!
Love your videos! Thank you! I'm in Farr West UT, you should come to our preparedness fair 14 Sep 24
The other benefit of the diesel heater setup like that, it would create a positive air pressure in your home so that it would eliminate drafts from cracks and unsealed windows!
Great information. Thank you.
I’m surprised you didn’t include kerosene heaters. People use them all the time in garages or emergency heater. Like propane, ventilation and monoxide detectors are key; but they are cheaper to run and produce more heat than propane for a similar purchase price
Thank you Dave for this valuable information, which may end up saving someone's life! The link for the Vevor Diesel Heater is not working, I traced it to the "Mr" at the end of the link address, the "Mr" should not be there. This heater shows a heat output on the website of 3 kW, which is 10,000 BTUs. Apparently, these Chinese diesel heaters have several problems that cause the unit to quit working after a few uses but, there are numerous RUclips videos that provide solutions to make the unit reliable.
I have 4 months run time on mine, running 12-14 hours a day. But for the last 2 weeks, it runs on H3 setting medium heat for 24/7 non stop. It quit from contaminated red diesel fuel a month ago. I had an extra pump on hand and added a 1/4 inch small engine fuel filter in the suction line, a 15 minute job to complete. The refueling jug stirs sediments up but the filter takes care of that.
This probably means you can hook it up to a portable power bank that has the adapter for jumper cables I used to carry one of those things around and it actually helped keeping well help somebody whose car I had died get their car back to going I kept it around for quite some time because you could use that power bank with its adapter to charge your phone or if you had a car to start your car so I'm wondering if it would also work with this machine that you showed.
Could Also connect to a 50Lb tank or even 100lb if you wanted to and have tank outside run a line inside .
Heck yea
Thats what I was thinking. Would rather have cylinder outside. Additionally would propane company fill it?
Good tips , thanks for sharing , God bless !
Best way to use those all in one diesel heaters and that's how they were originally intended to be used ... I wouldn't trust the Chineseium exhaust and fittings not to leak exhaust fumes inside.. Likewise you don't want to be spilling diesel inside your home.. a length of 3 core flex and 6x wire connectors (I use wagos) to bring the controller inside.
Those worrying about waxing diesel once running the heat from the heater takes the chill off the top mounted fuel tank
The exhaust can get very very hot I have had a near miss with the all in one when a rag fell off my bench and landed on the exhaust fortunately I saw it drop and instantly melt managed to grab it before it caught fire...
I've just installed one on the wall of my shed via a turret plate mounted horizontal with the fuel pipe / glow plug uppermost so all fuel / exhaust connections are outside and the unit can warm already warmed air increasing efficiency.. if you get waxing use kerosene it burns cleaner but with a touch less heat output....
Hi, I also have a Blue Flame (Ethanol) Alcohol burning Fireplace which is not energy efficient at all and a Kerosene Heater (that one is VERY energy efficient) both are backups along with the Big Buddy Propane heater. I am understanding that there is no conflict of an any gas off or any fumes to run those indoors if two of them had to be used at the same time…although I would be cracking a window for sure. Any safety advice from mixture of fumes? I would’ve preferred a wood stove but that’s not in the cards at the moment. Yes I have bought 2 different plug in-battery backup detectors for carbon monoxide, propane and Natural Gas. Thank you!
Think beans.
My understanding is when using a 20 lb propane tank, you should keep the tank outside. The connection will usually leak a bit of propane which is toxic. The one pound tanks do not have this issue.
Shifting the fan back will redirect the heat towards the handle and will melt the handle. Luckily I caught it before the melted plastic caught on fire. 😅
Bought the big buddy a couple years ago and it’s still in my garage in the box LOL
I have one in my closest, been there 2 years. Afraid to use it after hearing they can burst into flames.
@@JaneH3675 never heard that before our company uses them in every truck to warm tents we use when working on utility outages in 15 States
@@JaneH3675 All heaters, gas or electric are inherently dangerous. Follow instructions and they are safe. Plus, common sense means never use a fuel heater inside when sleeping or not at home. Be sure to keep a window slightly open to provide air for combustion.
The diesel heater is designed to be indoors because diesel fuel will jell up in cold weather, so the fuel will become unusable if it remains outside, the diesel heater should be inside, but you rout that small exhaust pipe outside, also, the diesel heater company, should make a tube that attaches to the hot air outlet, that has several peltier devices mounted onto the tube, this way, the only time you are using your 12 volt source is during start up, but once the heater starts making heat, the peltier devices, can then supply the 12 volt source, so it can not only run the fan, but charge your battery back up, from whatever source you used, as your start up voltage. That would make a simple, low cost improvement to that heater.
Do you need a pressure regulator on the hose for the 20 pound propane tank?
Nice mr buddy setup but I did not see the propane filter for sale on Amazon
Awesome video, Vevor is a super cheap chinese company that sells a ton of tools and other items. For being super cheap they are actually not too bad considering..
Can u do a video of setting up the big buddy heater with two tanks and two hoses ?? Do you open 1 tank at a time to use or have both tanks open ? Thank you 🙏
You can do either. Both open or just one. Both open will draw them both down evenly