Portable gas ceramic heaters

[Crowblack]

What's the forums opinion of the above, thinking of buying one of the typical camping type, which runs on an integral small gas cartridge, the sort that goes out if knocked over.

Just for occasional use and small enough to go in a locker, and oh - not for overnight use. Part of my concern is do these heaters produce as much (any) condensation as an open gas flame ?

 

[rogerdog]

As it's an unvented gas appliance - the condensation CO2 etc will be identical to any other

I'd have to say that it needs adequate ventilation to work safely (exactly what you don't always want to heat the cabin up) and in addition the gas cartridge is then storing gas actually in the cabin!

If you must - fit a CO detector and store the gas out of the cabin where any leak could drain overboard (eg gas locker). In addition if used at anchor etc ensure it can't move closer to any soft furnishings etc. due to motion of the boat

Personally I would not use one.

 

[sarabande]

very roughly, for every litre of fuel burnt, you produce a similar amount of water, as vapour. With decent ventilation, that's OK, but that vapour can condense on cold surface.

 

[l'escargot]

We've got a "Blue Cat" ( http://www.amazingoutdoors.com/product_info.php/products_id/3117 ) which warms the boat through nicely on a cold evening. No particular problem with condensation but we ventilate well.

 

[Crowblack]

Thanks for responses, one more question if poss can you tell me whats the difference in a "catalytic" gas heater ?

A couple of the chandlers advertise one as "the only one suitable for indoor use" which of course makes it about four times the cost.

 

[l'escargot]

Quoted from the calor website:

"Using a Catalytic heater results in the significant reduction of Carbon Monoxide emissions. Despite their small size, Catalytic heaters can still manage a powerful output - meaning you get cosy heat wherever you want it. They are flame-free (except pilot-light), making them exceptionally safe. "

 

[ebbtide]

Re: Portable gas heaters

Am delighted with the portable Mr Buddy Heater which comes with various sensors/cut outs. Of course there's condensation, so ventilate. But as well as (expensive) replacement cartridges you can pipe it from a butane cylinder outside - and changing from propane didn't worry the cooker one bit. PM if interested.

 

[highandry]

Before you buy from the yacht jewelers..look in a decent caravan sales showroom..

 

[Crowblack]

Thanks again for responses, catalytic, with good ventilation looks the way to go, will browse a few good caraven sites too.

 

[Rabbie]

I have been using one - with sensible care - for over four years now. I have adequate ventilation, combined with adequate insulation and condensation is minimal if at all. I also have a CO2 detector - with a VERY LOUD alarm. It makes life very cosy.

 

[JKay]

one of those worked brilliantly over the snowy Easter weekend

cheers Joe