10 best compact gas heaters: model rating and recommendations for choosing

The heating equipment market offers equipment of various types and purposes. Along with large-sized modules for heating large rooms, portable models are available for sale, convenient for transportation and use in camping or extreme conditions.

In addition to hiking, a compact gas heater is useful for heating a workplace, warehouse, trading tent, country house, change house, temporary hut or open veranda / terrace.

And how to choose the right device and which manufacturers you can trust - we talk about this in our publication. The review presents the top ten heating devices that are in demand among customers of online stores and offline networks. They are most often chosen for purchase. About them most willingly leave detailed reviews on popular portals and online sites dedicated to ratings of household appliances and heating equipment.

The content of the article:

  • 10 best compact gas heaters
    • Models up to 2 kW
    • Models from 2 kW
  • Rules for choosing an autonomous gas heater
  • Tips for potential buyers
  • Conclusions and useful video on the topic
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10 best compact gas heaters

A place

Product

Rating

Max. heating area

The weight

Price

Models up to 2 kW

#1

KOVEA Power Sense (KH-2006)

98

/ 100

10 m²

1.4 Kg

Find out the price

#2

KOVEA Cupid Heater (KH-1203)

97

/ 100

10 m²

1.4 Kg

Find out the price

#3

TOURIST MINI AFRICA

96

/ 100

12 m²

1.5KG

Find out the price

#4

KOVEA Little Sun (KH-0203)

94

/ 100

15 m²

2.1 kg

Find out the price

#5

KOVEA Fire Ball (KH-0710)

93

/ 100

8 m²

0.6 kg

Find out the price

Models from 2 kW

#1

Elekon Power PG7B

99

/ 100

8 m²

3.9 kg

Find out the price

#2

Hyundai H-HG2-29-UI686

98

/ 100

28 m²

2.5KG

Find out the price

#3

Ballu BIGH-3

96

/ 100

30 m²

1.6 kg

Find out the price

#4

Hyundai H-HG3-25-UI777

95

/ 100

40 m²

1 kg

Find out the price

#5

Ballu BIGH-4

94

/ 100

60 m²

2.3 kg

Find out the price
Models up to 2 kW

1

KOVEA Power Sense (KH-2006)

2

KOVEA Cupid Heater (KH-1203)

3

TOURIST MINI AFRICA

4

KOVEA Little Sun (KH-0203)

5

KOVEA Fire Ball (KH-0710)

Models from 2 kW

1

Elekon Power PG7B

2

Hyundai H-HG2-29-UI686

3

Ballu BIGH-3

4

Hyundai H-HG3-25-UI777

5

Ballu BIGH-4

Models up to 2 kW

#1

KOVEA Power Sense (KH-2006)

Compact model with tungsten emitter at a budget price

Expert rating:

98

/ 100

KOVEA Power Sense is considered a hit among small portable heating units. There are no plastic parts prone to melting in the interior of the device. The presence of an overpressure relief valve makes the operation of the device reliable and safe.

The heater demonstrates high efficiency at low temperatures and provides a steady heat flow. It is energy efficient. One collet standard cylinder is enough for 3 hours of continuous operation.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 1.04 kW
  • resource - butane
  • consumption - 0.08 kg / h
  • control - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - purchased separately
  • features - tungsten emitter, 4 fixed supports for mounting the device on surfaces of any type, lightweight body, hard plastic cover for protection against mechanical damage

The model heats up a temporary shelter or a spacious six-person tent with high quality. Suitable for tourists, fishermen, hunters and fans of an active lifestyle, who often travel during the cold season.

Dignity

  • Resistant to corrosion and aggressive acids
  • Easy to operate and convenient to operate
  • Elementary refueling method
  • Lightweight body
  • Affordable price

disadvantages

  • Short operating time on one fully charged cylinder

#2

KOVEA Cupid Heater (KH-1203)

Reliable, practical heating device, effective even in windy conditions

Expert rating:

97

/ 100

The heater has a robust metal body and a reliable ceramic radiator. Belongs to the class of environmentally friendly equipment. It economically consumes energy resources and guarantees the complete absence of fuel combustion products in the air.

During operation, it does not create an open flame, thereby increasing the level of operational safety. Shows resistance to alkaline and acidic environments, is not afraid of corrosion. Withstands intense loads.

Specifications:

  • limiting power - 1 kW
  • resource - propane / butane
  • consumption - 0.07 kg / h
  • control - mechanical turn signal
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - not included in the basic package
  • features - ceramic heating element, comfortable carrying handle, plastic case for transportation and protection from external damage

The device is suitable for heating a large tent, a temporary fishing or hunting shelter, a small room in a country house.

Dignity

  • Powerful heat flow
  • High level of security
  • Economical fuel consumption
  • Stable operation at low temperatures
  • Immunity to overheating

disadvantages

  • Poor stability on embossed surfaces

#3

TOURIST MINI AFRICA

Bestseller among budget gas heaters for tourism and outdoor activities

Expert rating:

96

/ 100

TOURIST MINI AFRICA is a completely self-contained portable device for creating comfortable warmth in a tent, shelter, shed or compact living room.

Heats air quickly and uses gas mixture economically. If the cylinder is installed incorrectly, it does not turn on.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 1.2 kW
  • resource - propane / butane
  • consumption - 0.1 kg / h
  • control - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - purchased separately
  • features - gas leakage prevention system, protection against incorrect cylinder installation

The heater is suitable for tourists, travelers and summer residents. High-quality heating of tents and tents, compact temporary buildings, hunting lodges and shelters.

Dignity

  • About 5-6 hours of operation in economy mode on one fully filled cylinder
  • Compactness
  • No open flame
  • Stable legs

disadvantages

  • In an enclosed space with poor ventilation, there is a smell of carbon monoxide
  • The plastic case is vulnerable to damage
  • Lack of carrying case

#4

KOVEA Little Sun (KH-0203)

Reliable and safe high-power unit for heating spacious tents and rooms

Expert rating:

94

/ 100

The practical, vertically oriented device in a metal housing is equipped with a ceramic heating element, an overpressure valve and a special cylinder heating plate. It ensures stable operation of the equipment at low temperatures.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 1.67 kW
  • resource - butane
  • consumption - 0.12 kg / h
  • control - mechanical turn signal
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - not included in the basic package
  • features - two heating modes, densely spaced reflector mesh rings that protect against burns in case of touch

The model is suitable for the autonomous supply of heat to large tents, country houses, temporary buildings and a car interior.

Dignity

  • Stable legs
  • Ergonomic carry handle
  • Simple controls
  • Cap with a lock on the niche for the cylinder
  • The presence of an economical mode of operation

disadvantages

  • Marked case
  • Lack of box for transportation

#5

KOVEA Fire Ball (KH-0710)

Combi appliance for heating a small tent and cooking

Expert rating:

93

/ 100

The unit combines the functions of a heater and a burner. Quickly creates a comfortable microclimate in a small room, helps to quickly warm up a kettle, a Turkish pot or a pot of food. Convenient and reliable fasteners prevent overturning during operation.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 9 kW
  • resource - propane / butane
  • consumption - 0.07 kg / h
  • control - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - purchased separately
  • Features - Anti-Flare system, heat-reflecting shield, long extension hose, fixing bolt for fixing the position reflector, compatible with cylinders of threaded and collet type, plastic case to protect the case from physical impact

KOVEA Fire Ball is a great option for those who, during hikes or long country walks, do not need only warm up a small tent, but also prepare a hot lunch / dinner for the company of tourists, fishermen or hunters.

Dignity

  • Tungsten emitter suitable for long-term use
  • Ability to withstand installation on a grid of crockery of any size
  • Swing-out legs to ensure a stable position on a raised surface

disadvantages

  • Low working power
  • Short period of operation on one cylinder

Models from 2 kW

#1

Elekon Power PG7B

Self-contained gas heater for small rooms, tents or temporary shelters

Expert rating:

99

/ 100

The unit works correctly at temperatures from -10 to +40 ° C. Equipped with a plate on which the balloon is placed.

The plate heats up during operation and ensures high-quality cylinder heating. This improves gas evaporation at low ambient temperatures and guarantees a high efficiency of the heating device.

Specifications:

  • limiting power - 2 kW
  • resource - propane / butane
  • consumption - 0.15 kg / h
  • control - mechanical toggle switch
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - not included in the basic package
  • features - built-in pressure regulator, protection against cylinder installation when the valve is open

Practical and convenient portable oven in the middle price segment. It is not afraid of active use and is suitable for heating a tent, tourist shelter or small makeshift.

Dignity

  • High heat dissipation
  • Protective grill that protects the user from accidental contact with glowing elements
  • Side location of the gas cylinder

disadvantages

  • Exhaust gas smell due to poor ventilation in a heated room

#2

Hyundai H-HG2-29-UI686

Powerful budget device for independent heating of large open areas and preparation of simple meals

Expert rating:

98

/ 100

The floor heater in a simple metal casing is based on a ceramic heating element. Demonstrates high working power and heats open areas for various purposes, change houses and premises for temporary stay of people.

It is installed in closed rooms only if high-quality ventilation is provided, which ensures complete removal of combustion products.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 2.9 kW
  • resource - propane
  • consumption - 0.25 kg / h
  • control - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - purchased separately
  • features - reducer, gas hose, German ceramic emitter Rauschert

An elementary and easy-to-use device is suitable for summer residents, builders, installers and handymen who want to combine the heating of the area with quick preparation / heating of tea / simple dishes.

Dignity

  • Compact dimensions
  • No asbestos in the heating element
  • Serving a large area
  • Economical use of fuel resources

disadvantages

  • Burns oxygen when working indoors
  • Simplified appearance
  • Not very neat assembly
  • When installed vertically, the tilt angle should not exceed 60 °

#3

Ballu BIGH-3

Infrared unit with 100% efficiency, directed heating and the ability to cook / reheat food

Expert rating:

96

/ 100

Ballu BIGH-3 provides high heat output during operation. Copes with heating large areas. Suitable for removing ice and snow from surfaces. Jets of different diameters included in the kit allow using not only bottled propane, but also main gas.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 3 kW
  • resource - propane / butane
  • consumption - 0.2 kg / h
  • control - mechanical toggle switch
  • piezo ignition - no
  • balloon - not included in the basic package
  • features - manual ignition, A-class ceramic heating panel that does not deform when water gets in, a ring-burner with a heat-resistant coating for installing large-sized dishes

The model is effective for local heating of working areas in open areas, where there are doubts about the advisability of using traditional heating methods.

Suitable for tourists, summer residents, fishermen and hunters, as it uses fuel economically, is not afraid of extreme operating conditions and makes it possible to cook / reheat food.

Dignity

  • Almost silent operation
  • Directional heat flow
  • Does not mix air and dust
  • Resistant to high humidity and wind
  • Structural reliability

disadvantages

  • Short hose
  • Poor stability of the legs on a raised surface
  • Lack of piezo ignition

#4

Hyundai H-HG3-25-UI777

Lightweight, compact heating equipment with additional cooking / heating function

Expert rating:

95

/ 100

A handy device with a sturdy metal case and foldable legs. It is completed with a grate for installing a kettle, a saucepan or a turkey for heating. Lightweight, takes up minimal space and is easy to transport. Not afraid of active operational loads and physical damage.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 2.5 kW
  • resource - propane / butane
  • consumption - 0.22 kg / h
  • control - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - no
  • balloon - purchased separately
  • features - manual ignition, gas control, automatically shutting off the fuel supply in case of an unexpected stopping of combustion, grill grate for cooking

A budgetary small-sized option with a good level of power is suitable for heating small rooms, temporary huts, change houses and country houses that are not equipped with a heating system. Works fine outdoors. Quickly warms up a teapot or turk.

Dignity

  • Lack of unnecessary functions
  • Roll-over protection
  • Compact dimensions
  • Little weight
  • Low price

disadvantages

  • Poor build quality
  • Paint burns during operation
  • Burns oxygen

#5

Ballu BIGH-4

The device with the ability to adjust the power of work in the range from 3 to 4.5 kW

Expert rating:

94

/ 100

Ballu BIGH-4 infrared heater with a wide spectrum of action - heats, helps to remove ice and snow from the surface, makes it possible to cook food and warm water.

The body is covered with heat-resistant enamel and retains its aesthetic appearance for a long time. The leg can be disassembled into 2 parts, making it possible to compactly pack the heating device.

Specifications:

  • maximum power - 4.5 kW
  • resource - propane / butane
  • consumption - 0.32 kg / h
  • control - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • balloon - included
  • peculiarities - reducer and gas hose, split leg, premium ceramic panel A, gas valve controlled by a sensitive thermocouple

The model is considered professional and is suitable for heating technological and construction areas, outdoor terraces, gazebos. It is not the air that warms, but the surrounding objects and people.

Dignity

  • Infinitely variable power control
  • High efficiency
  • Protection against gas leakage in the event of flame extinguishing
  • Heat resistant enamel coating
  • Corrosion resistant

disadvantages

  • Short gas hose

Rules for choosing an autonomous gas heater

The main parameters for choosing portable infrared gas heaters are - serviced area and the weight. It is on these indicators that you should focus on in the first place.

If you are looking for a device for use in field conditions, you should pay attention to the lightest, most compact unit. During long walks, every extra gram will feel like a weighty load.

Floor standing gas heater

For people traveling by car, weight is not so important. Such users can purchase any model they like, capable, if necessary, of high-quality heating not only of the tent, but also of the car interior.

It is desirable that the kit comes with a plastic carrying box. It protects equipment from physical damage that is almost inevitable in extreme conditions.

When you need to pick up a device for a stationary room, temporary huts, change houses, garage, a warehouse or a country house that is not equipped with a heating system, you need to take into account what area the device can serve. It is better to take equipment with a certain margin in order to reduce the load and extend the service life.

For permanent transportation / carrying, it makes sense to buy a module with strong body made of anodized metal. Plastic models are more prone to damage and often do not withstand too much use.

Gas heater in the tent

The combi options are capable of not only heating, but also cooking / reheating food. Such devices make it possible to more comfortably equip your life even in the most extreme conditions.

When choosing, it is recommended to pay attention to strength and stability of models, especially if you plan to use the equipment as outdoor heater.

In some units, the legs are made of thick metal and are equipped with a lock that ensures the stable position of the entire structure. If you plan to regularly use the heater as a tile, this quality will make a big difference.

Another plus for the heater is presence of piezo ignition. In difficult weather conditions, in high humidity, in rain, snow or wind, you can easily turn on the burner and you can keep warm. You do not need to watch all the time so that the matches do not get damp, or the lighter does not fail.

You don't need to pay much attention to additional functions. In portable products, they are extremely rare and have no fundamental value for work.

Appliance brand - not the most fundamental parameter, but it is worth considering it when buying. In every field, there are successful manufacturers offering the best products at the most attractive prices. Unnamed models from one-day firms are not worth taking. Such equipment does not withstand the operational load and often fails in the first couple of months of use.

If the cost of a branded device seems to you unreasonably high, and you like making useful homemade products from scrap materials, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with manufacturing instructions gas heater with your own hands.

Tips for potential buyers

When using gas equipment, strictly adhere to the basic safety rules. Before starting the device, carefully study the manufacturer's instructions and follow the recommendations indicated there.

Cylinders for gas heaters

Buy branded gas cylinders of well-known brands. Saving on fuel quality in the future may result in equipment failure, fire or other unpleasant consequences.

Switch on the gas unit in closed rooms only if there is good ventilation. Even the highest quality device, in the process of operation, emits combustion products that negatively affect a person.

To avoid problems, do not leave the unit unattended for a long time and do not go to bed in a room heated by gas appliances. Reasonable care and attention will allow you to fully operate the equipment without having any problems with it.

We also recommend that you read the rules terms of use gas cylinders at home.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

How are mini gas heaters with a ceramic burner arranged and what are their advantages:

An overview of the most popular portable heating devices for fishing, hunting and extreme recreation:

Testing of gas cylinders for compact heating devices.

A portable gas heater is an inexpensive outdoor heating appliance. With its help, it is easy to create comfort in a tent during a camping trip, hunting, fishing or going out into the countryside, to heat a country house, a construction site or a warehouse. Having chosen the right unit, you will never freeze even where it is physically impossible to equip a high-quality heating system.

Have a great mobile heater but not in the ranking above? Give the advantages and disadvantages of this model, identified during operation. If you still have questions about the choice of equipment, ask our experts and other users - the feedback form is located below.

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