Mr. Heater Big Buddy Heater Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This comprehensive guide offers essential information on the Mr. Heater Big Buddy‚ a portable propane heater designed for recreational and commercial use. It covers safety precautions‚ operating instructions‚ maintenance‚ and troubleshooting. The manual ensures users can safely and effectively operate the heater‚ maximizing its benefits in various settings.
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy is a portable propane heater renowned for providing reliable and efficient heat in diverse environments. Designed for both recreational and commercial applications‚ it’s a versatile heating solution suitable for enclosed porches‚ cabins‚ fishing huts‚ trailers‚ and even tents. Its portability makes it ideal for workshops‚ garages‚ recreational vehicles‚ and emergency indoor use‚ offering warmth wherever needed.
This heater stands out due to its impressive heating capacity‚ capable of warming spaces up to 400 square feet. The Mr. Heater Big Buddy operates on propane (LP) gas and is designed with safety as a priority‚ incorporating features for indoor use when adequate combustion and ventilation are provided. The heater’s user-friendly design ensures straightforward operation.
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy is a valuable asset for anyone seeking a dependable and portable heating solution. Whether for camping trips‚ garage workshops‚ or emergency preparedness‚ this heater delivers consistent warmth and convenience. Proper adherence to the instructions outlined in the comprehensive manual will ensure safe and optimal performance.
Key Features and Specifications (MH18B Model)
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy MH18B model is a portable propane heater designed to deliver substantial heating power with user-friendly features. This model boasts a variable heat output‚ ranging from 4‚000 to 18‚000 BTU per hour‚ making it adaptable to different heating needs and space sizes. Its heating capacity allows it to effectively warm areas up to 400 square feet‚ suitable for a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.
A key feature of the MH18B is its built-in low-oxygen sensor‚ enhancing safety during indoor use by automatically shutting off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low. The heater is designed for use with propane (LP) gas and can be connected to either a 1 lb. propane cylinder or a remote 20 lb. cylinder with the appropriate hose. Its permissible settings include “LO” only for bathroom use and “LO” or “MED” for bedroom use‚ offering flexibility in different environments.
The MH18B also includes a piezo igniter for easy starting‚ eliminating the need for matches or lighters. With clearance requirements of 30 inches on top‚ 24 inches in front‚ 6 inches on the sides‚ and 0 inches in the rear‚ it provides flexible placement options while ensuring safe operation. The MH18B model provides a convenient and reliable heating solution.
Safety Precautions and Warnings
Operating the Mr. Heater Big Buddy requires strict adherence to safety precautions to prevent potential hazards. Never leave the heater unattended while burning‚ as constant monitoring is crucial to ensure safe operation. Propane (LP) gas and natural gas have man-made odorants added for leak detection; if a gas leak is suspected‚ immediately shut off the gas supply and ventilate the area.
Ensure adequate combustion and ventilation air are provided when using the heater indoors. This heater is safe for use in small recreational enclosures‚ such as enclosed porches‚ cabins‚ fishing huts‚ trailers‚ and tents‚ provided there are means for providing combustion air and ventilation. Always read and follow all instructions in the manual‚ and do not allow anyone who has not read these instructions to assemble‚ light‚ adjust‚ or operate the heater.
Clothing or other flammable materials should not be hung from the heater or placed on or near the heater. Do not operate the heater in any moving vehicle. Any safety screen or guard removed for servicing must be replaced prior to operating the heater. It is essential to replace the fuel filter annually and inspect the hose before each use‚ replacing it if there is excessive abrasion‚ wear‚ or cuts. The propane cylinder must include a listed overfilling protection device and a collar to protect the cylinder valve.
Operating Instructions: Lighting and Shutdown Procedures
To safely light the Mr. Heater Big Buddy‚ begin by ensuring the control knob is in the “OFF” position. Connect the propane cylinder securely‚ following the instructions for either a 1 lb cylinder or a remote cylinder setup. Slowly turn the control knob to the “PILOT” position and depress it. While holding the knob down‚ press the igniter button repeatedly until the pilot light ignites.
Continue to hold the control knob down for 30-60 seconds after the pilot light is lit to heat the thermocouple. After this period‚ release the knob; the pilot light should remain lit. If the pilot light goes out‚ repeat the lighting procedure. Once the pilot light is stable‚ turn the control knob to your desired heat setting: “LO‚” “MED‚” or “HI.” Note that both tiles will only glow orange on the “HI” setting.
To shut down the heater‚ turn the control knob to the “OFF” position. This will extinguish the main burner and the pilot light. If using a remote propane cylinder‚ close the valve on the cylinder. Allow the heater to cool down completely before storing it. Always disconnect the propane cylinder when the heater is not in use and store it in a well-ventilated area‚ away from flammable materials. Regular practice of these procedures ensures safe and efficient operation;
Connecting to a Remote Propane Cylinder
To connect your Mr. Heater Big Buddy to a remote propane cylinder‚ ensure you have the correct hose and regulator assembly. Mr. Heater offers specific hoses designed for this purpose‚ such as Hose No. F273701‚ F273702‚ or F272702. When using these hoses‚ it’s crucial to also use fuel filter F273699‚ which should be replaced annually to maintain optimal performance.
Alternatively‚ you can use Mr. Heater Hose No. F271802‚ which includes a quick disconnect fitting and a 3/8 female flare fitting. This hose doesn’t require a separate fuel filter. Before connecting any hose‚ inspect it for excessive abrasion‚ wear‚ or cuts. Replace the hose immediately if any damage is found.
The remote propane cylinder must include a listed overfilling protection device and a collar to protect the cylinder valve. Ensure any hose connection to a quick disconnect fitting on the heater is regulated to 11 inches of water column (W.C.) pressure. Securely attach the hose to both the heater and the propane cylinder‚ tightening all connections to prevent leaks. Always perform a leak test with soapy water after connecting to ensure a safe and reliable setup before operating the heater.
Fuel and Hose Requirements
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy is designed to operate exclusively on propane (LP) gas. Using any other fuel type can result in damage to the heater and pose a significant safety risk. When connecting the heater to a propane source‚ it’s crucial to use the correct hose and regulator assembly to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Mr. Heater specifies several hose options for connecting to a remote propane cylinder. These include Hose No. F273701‚ F273702‚ and F272702‚ all of which require the use of fuel filter F273699. This fuel filter must be replaced annually to prevent contaminants from affecting the heater’s performance. An alternative option is Mr. Heater Hose No. F271802‚ which features a quick disconnect fitting and a 3/8 female flare fitting and does not require a separate fuel filter.
Regardless of the hose used‚ always inspect it before each use for signs of wear‚ abrasion‚ or damage. If any issues are detected‚ replace the hose immediately. The propane cylinder should include a listed overfilling protection device and a collar to safeguard the cylinder valve. Any hose connected to a quick disconnect fitting on the heater must be regulated to 11 inches of water column (W.C.) pressure.
Maintenance: Cleaning and Inspection
Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of your Mr. Heater Big Buddy. Before each use‚ visually inspect the heater for any signs of damage or wear. Pay close attention to the hose‚ regulator‚ and connections‚ replacing any parts that appear worn or damaged. Never operate the heater if you suspect a gas leak or any other malfunction.
To clean the heater‚ start by disconnecting it from the propane source and allowing it to cool completely. Wipe down the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. For more stubborn dirt‚ use a mild detergent solution. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents‚ as these can damage the heater’s finish.
Inspect and clean the main burner orifice‚ located at the bottom of the burner venturi tube. Use a vacuum cleaner or compressed air to remove any obstructions. If the pilot light is yellow or the burner flame is irregular‚ cleaning may be necessary. Replace the wire guard after cleaning. Annually replace the fuel filter (if applicable to your hose type) to prevent contaminants from affecting the heater’s performance. Regular maintenance prolongs the life of the heater.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering issues with your Mr. Heater Big Buddy can be frustrating‚ but many problems can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. If the heater fails to light‚ first ensure that the propane cylinder is not empty and is properly connected. Check the control knob position and repeat the lighting procedure‚ holding the knob down for a sufficient amount of time to heat the thermocouple. A faulty thermocouple can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
If the pilot light lights but the main burner does not ignite‚ inspect the burner orifice for any obstructions. Clean the orifice with compressed air or a small brush to remove any debris. Insufficient ventilation can also cause issues; ensure the heater is used in a well-ventilated area.
A weak or flickering flame may indicate a low propane supply or a partially blocked gas line. Check the hose for kinks or damage and ensure the regulator is functioning correctly. If you smell gas‚ immediately turn off the heater and ventilate the area. Never attempt to repair a gas leak yourself; contact a qualified service technician. Addressing these common issues can restore your heater.
Understanding Error Codes and Solutions
While the Mr. Heater Big Buddy may not display traditional error codes like some electronic devices‚ certain operational issues can indicate underlying problems. A common issue is the heater shutting off unexpectedly‚ which often points to a lack of adequate ventilation or a problem with the oxygen depletion sensor (ODS). Ensure the heater is used in a space with sufficient fresh air to prevent the ODS from triggering a shutdown.
Another potential issue is a persistent pilot light failure. This can be caused by a malfunctioning thermocouple‚ which is responsible for sensing the pilot flame and allowing gas to flow to the main burner. If the thermocouple is faulty‚ it may need to be replaced. Similarly‚ a blocked pilot orifice can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
If the heater produces a strong odor or excessive soot‚ it may indicate incomplete combustion. This can be due to a dirty burner or improper gas pressure. Cleaning the burner and ensuring the correct propane pressure can resolve this issue. In all cases‚ consult the manual for specific troubleshooting steps and safety precautions.
Parts Ordering Information and Warranty
When it comes to maintaining your Mr. Heater Big Buddy‚ knowing how to source replacement parts is crucial. Mr. Heater‚ Inc. provides a warranty for their heaters and accessories‚ typically covering defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. During this warranty period‚ the company will repair or replace the product free of charge if it proves to be defective‚ provided it’s returned at the customer’s expense with proof of purchase.
To order replacement parts or inquire about warranty claims‚ you can visit the official Mr. Heater website. The website usually has a dedicated section for parts and service information‚ allowing you to identify and order the specific components you need‚ such as hoses‚ filters‚ or thermocouples. You can also contact Mr. Heater’s customer service directly through their toll-free number for assistance with parts ordering or warranty-related questions.
Remember to have your heater’s model number (MH18B) and serial number readily available when contacting customer service or ordering parts online. This will ensure you receive the correct components for your specific unit.
Indoor Use and Ventilation Requirements
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy is designed for indoor use in recreational enclosures. However‚ it is crucial to understand and adhere to strict ventilation requirements to ensure safe operation. This heater is a vent-free appliance‚ which means it draws air (oxygen) from the surrounding area for combustion. Therefore‚ adequate combustion and ventilation air must be provided to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
The manual specifies minimum ventilation openings required for safe operation. These openings allow fresh air to enter the space‚ ensuring a sufficient oxygen supply and preventing the build-up of harmful gases. Always refer to the manual for the specific ventilation requirements for your model and the size of the enclosure where you plan to use the heater.
Never operate the heater in a completely sealed environment. Ensure there is at least the minimum required ventilation to prevent oxygen depletion and carbon monoxide accumulation. Symptoms of inadequate ventilation include headache‚ dizziness‚ and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms‚ immediately turn off the heater and ventilate the area. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal‚ so prioritizing proper ventilation is paramount when using the Mr. Heater Big Buddy indoors.
Accessories and Optional Equipment
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy heater can be enhanced with various accessories and optional equipment designed to improve its functionality and convenience. These accessories allow users to tailor the heater to specific needs and applications‚ expanding its versatility. One popular accessory is a hose that enables connection to a remote propane cylinder‚ typically a 20-pound tank. This provides an extended run time compared to using only the integrated one-pound cylinders.
When using a remote propane cylinder‚ it’s essential to use the correct hose and fuel filter. Some hoses‚ like the Buddy series hose‚ may not require a separate fuel filter. Refer to the manual for specific hose and filter requirements.
Additionally‚ Mr. Heater offers a fan accessory that can improve heat circulation‚ distributing warmth more evenly throughout the space. Other optional equipment may include carrying cases for convenient transport and storage‚ as well as replacement parts such as thermocouples and burner assemblies. These accessories ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the Mr. Heater Big Buddy. Always consult the Mr. Heater website or authorized dealers for the most up-to-date list of available accessories and their compatibility with your specific model.