How to Light a Propane Construction Heater

Propane construction heaters attach to propane cylinders for their fuel.

Propane construction heaters are often called "torpedo" heaters because of the cylindrical tube design. This type of heater has a high output to warm work areas and help dry materials in cold weather. Torpedo heaters are portable to move from one area to another for comfort and expediency in drying drywall joint compounds and paints. Very cold rooms do not allow these products to dry correctly and cause surface cracks in the future.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Spark lighter

Instructions

1. Insert the end of a propane hose and regulator into the threads on a propane cylinder. Turn the fitting to tighten by hand. Place an adjustable wrench on the fitting with one hand and hold the tank steady with the other hand. Turn the wrench to tighten the fitting completely. Depending on the design of your heater and tank, the regulator may tighten in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

2. Press the loose end of a propane hose onto the inlet stem on the heater rear. Place an adjustable wrench on the inlet fitting and tighten fully.

3. Plug the heater power cord into a grounded electrical socket or extension cord.

4. Grasp the valve on the propane tank top near the fuel line. Turn the valve counterclockwise until it stops. This action opens the flow valve to introduce propane into the heater.

5. Push the gas control knob in while turning to the "Low" or "Ignite" setting on the heater. This action starts the fan and motor on the heater. Hold the knob in this position while continuing to press it in for about 30 seconds. The electronic igniter will emit a spark to light the heater. Older models may not have an electronic igniter. Follow the same procedure to turn the heater on. Hold a spark lighter near the end of the heater and squeeze the two handles together to emit a spark and light the heater.

6. Turn the gas valve knob on the heater to "Medium" or "High" to warm the work area.

Tips & Warnings

• Never light a propane heater if the smell of gas is present in the room.

• Use propane construction heaters in well-ventilated areas to decrease fumes.

• Wait five minutes after attaching a new propane tank before lighting the heater to allow fumes to dissipate.

References

• Home Depot: Dyna-Glo Propane Construction Heater User's Manual and Operating Instructions