Sometimes, an electric heater simply isn’t powerful enough. While it’s pretty convenient to use (and even gorgeous to look at), propane heaters can pump out even more heat. And they don’t need a plug socket to do so.
Which is why I’ve decided to look around for the best propane heaters with thermostats.
I know you want something as convenient as an electric heater, so I’ve only looked at models with thermostats.
Well, it turns out only wall heaters have thermostats built-in. But you can at least use a converter thermostat kit to upgrade any basic propane heater.
I’ve reviewed the best converter below and added three wall heaters on the list. One offers the best value, the other is the best all-rounder, and the third one has the best modern features.
Finally, I’ve also included the best no-thermostat propane heater, which you could combine with the converter kit.
Already confused about these choices? Relax. Let’s go through each of them.
Shortlist: Propane Heaters With Thermostats
Before we dive into the details, here’s the top models that we recommend. I know a lot of people aren’t big on detail and just want to know the best products, so here they are:
Image | Thermostat Heater | Chosen Because | Link |
---|---|---|---|
LB White Thermostat Kit | Cheap Upgrade To Your Heater | Amazon | |
Dyna-Glo Propane Wall Heater | Best All-Rounder | Amazon | |
HeatStorm Wall Mounted Heater | Best With Wifi Control | Amazon | |
ProCom Infrared Heater | Best Value | Amazon |
With that said – let’s dive in to the reviews.
Best Propane Heaters with Thermostats: Detailed Reviews
I chose this thermostat kit as my top converter pick for propane heaters because… it simply works!
It works to ‘convert’ your portable propane heater into one with a thermostat. All of the convenience and control without buying another propane heater with a built-in temperature setter.
(Again, only wall models have those built-ins. We’ll get to the best ones in the reviews that follow below.)
Well, this L.B. White thermostat kit is small enough to not take over a big space. And it has a 25’ cord – long enough to sit anywhere and still reach any socket.
The control knob is pretty easy to use, too. Just set it to your ideal temp setting and sit back.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
25’ Long Extension for Portable Heaters | Only a Converter Kit, You Have to Have a Propane Heater First |
Easy-to-use Control Knob | |
Compatible with Most Propane/NG Heaters |
Our Verdict
Okay, I know this isn’t exactly a propane heater. Only a thermostat kit.
Still, you may already have a trusty propane heater and don’t want to change it until after a few years. But that shouldn’t keep you from upgrading your device with a thermostat add-on.
Obviously, this item here by L.B. White could easily be the cheapest option on this list.
If you don’t want to splurge on another heating device and only need a thermostat for convenience, then perhaps you should get this converter to work for you.
This Dyna-Glo Thermostat Wall Heater is named the best all-rounder for a reason. It features an adjustable heat output. From 16,000 to 20,000 BTU — heating a room of up to 700 sq. ft.
Like the ProCom heater above, this one by Dyna-Glo includes a thermostat control knob. Perfectly easy to set and maintain your desired temp.
Also, it burns with 99.9% efficiency, operating on propane only. No need to use electricity to power up this heater.
And while it might be priced a little higher than other propane heaters, I think this model isn’t exaggerating. It’s safe enough with a built-in ODS.
Plus, you have the option to buy base legs, in case you prefer to mount it on the floor. Sounds pretty versatile to me.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Five Adjustable Knob Settings for the Temperature | A Little Pricey |
99% Blue Flame Heating Efficiency | |
Optional Legs for Floor Installation (Legs Are Sold Separately) |
Our Verdict
If you have the budget and you want the best out of it, then it must be a yes for this Dyna-Glo Propane Heater. It offers flexibility in terms of both power delivery and installation options.
And in terms of its Blue Flame Technology? It doesn’t disappoint. This means the heater’s extra focused at convecting heat to warm the air (just like a central heating system). It’s also so efficient you don’t need to ventilate it – unlike standard propane heaters.
Honestly, I only have one question. What more can you ask for?
It comes in 10,000, 20,000, and 30,000 BTU models. The link below goes to the most popular (20).
Finally, here’s something with no thermostat, but one that you could pair up with the converter kit above (the very first one we’ve reviewed on this list). I mean, if that’s the set-up you prefer. Or, if you happen to have a converter kit already.
Anyway, I must say that this Mr. Heater heating buddy knows where to place its focus.
It warms up spaces of up 225 square feet using 4,000 to 9,000 BTU. So it’s ideal for small rooms or apartments.
But where it really shines is how portable it is. You can bring it outdoors, taking it with you on your camping adventure to heat up your tent.
Just a heads-up. This heater might shut off if you’re operating it at 7,000 feet above sea level!
At least it offers clean-burning and a near 100% percent efficiency. And in case of tipping, it provides an auto-shut-off safety feature. It also shuts off in case of low oxygen levels or if the pilot light goes out.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Portable: Great for Both Indoor and Outdoor Use | Only for Small Spaces |
Clean Burning with Excellent Efficiency | |
Auto-Shut-Off Safety Feature |
Our Verdict
If you’re looking to buy an affordable, portable, small-room heater, then this Mr. Heater model could be ideal for you.
You can choose to combine it with the L.B. White 09454 Thermostat Kit above if you see the need for a thermostat later.
But honestly, if you do have the budget for a wall heater with built-in thermostat now, then you might as well scroll up and take your pick from all the other heaters above. (And in case you don’t need this heater’s portability.)
I know, I know – this one isn’t propane.But hear me out!
In the right situations, an infrared heater is a fantastic alternative to propane. Infrared heats up objects, so it’s super wind and draft resistant heat. It’s also much the cheapest type of electric heater to run. This Heat Storm Infrared Heater has a really sleek design. Mount it on a white wall in a modern home, and it just fits perfectly.
This is one of the only models with a true digital thermostat. It’s clear display and touch-controls make it super easy to use, even for seniors.
The best part? It’s WiFi-enabled. Meaning, it allows you to control the temperature from anywhere with your phone.
Not only does it look cool. It stays cool, too. The exterior always stays safe to touch – even the grill! Not a problem if you prefer mounting it low, and you have kids around.
It also provides 1000 watts of power. This means it suits a 300-square-feet home as the primary heater. Or, if you have a bigger place, you can use it to supplement your current heating equipment.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
WiFi-enabled Temperature Control | May Not Be Suitable for Large Rooms |
Safe and Cool to Touch Grill | |
Sleek and Space-Saving Design |
Our Verdict
If you’re a fan of modern technology and the convenience it brings, I bet you’re already (or almost) convinced about getting this heater.
Just a little push here. Many homeowners are loving the WiFi-enabled model (there are two other variants that don’t have WiFi.)
And I have to say this. The experience is pretty similar to having an electric heater with a thermostat and remote control.
Convenient. Cozy. Cool. (And warm.)
This ProCom Wall Heater offers incredible energy-saving heating features at a reasonable cost.
I think the best part is how its thermostat control works. It automatically cycles the burner, turning it on and off to maintain the room temperature you prefer.
To set the temperature, you only have to turn the control knob to your desired heat setting. Simply turn the heater on, and in about five minutes, it should heat up your room to the mid-70s.
Then, just adjust the thermostat if you want to keep the temperature at a constant 70° F. You don’t have to do anything else after.
Lastly, this heater has a built-in safety feature. It has an ODS (oxygen depletion sensor) that shuts down the heater in case it detects carbon monoxide or a lack of oxygen.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
10,000 or 30,000 BTU Variants Available | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
Automatic Thermostat Control | |
Built-In Oxygen Depletion Sensor for Added Safety |
Our Verdict
ProCom offers two variants for this propane wall heater. One has 10,000 maximum BTU (Model: MG10TBF) and the other, 30,000 (Model: MG30TBF). (Don’t know what a BTU means? Learn more here.)
Just choose the latter if you’re heating a room that’s over 300 sq. ft in size. Anything below that, the smaller model will do.
When you include all the above features, any of these two models aren’t really pricey. Compared to other heaters, they pack both convenience and heating quality without messing up with your budget.
Not sure which model to get? I’d say just pick according to your room size. Or, simply visit the following link to compare the two variants more closely.
Benefits of Thermostat for Propane Heaters
Propane heaters are already powerful in and of themselves. But couple them with a thermostat and they’re the ultimate in convenience, control, and raw heating power..
Let’s review the benefits of having a thermostat on your propane heater.
- You set the temperature. And that’s basically the purpose of a thermostat.
- You’ll know the temperature. Many thermostat heaters have LED displays on them.
- It’s easier to maintain the temp. In some heaters, you have to tweak the manual controls just to get the perfect temperature. With a thermostat we can just set it and forget it. So much more peace of mind.
- Saves you hassle. Many programmable thermostats can be scheduled to turn the heater on and off – meaning it can be set to turn off after you fall asleep, or before you arrive home.
- Saves you money. By not having toadjust the power input to maintain your desired temp, you’ll find that you’ll use less energy. Often without a thermostat, we set the heater too high and forget about it. At least until the room feels like a furnace. By setting an exact temperature you use no more power than you need.
Tips for Using Propane Heater with Thermostat
Propane heaters (with thermostats) are… safe. If you use them correctly!
And if you want to make everything safer, you will take note of the following usage tips.
- Be careful where you place your propane heater. It operates by using up oxygen, so you could risk running out of O2 (This is where the ODS – Oxygen Detection System – feature is pretty useful.)
- Ventilation is the key. Why? Because of tip #1. Just open up a window a little. And don’t worry about the heat coming out. You will have plenty of that with propane-operated heaters.
- Don’t leave unattended gas on. If not in use, turn the heater off. In the case of propane leakage, you should smell it immediately. While propane doesn’t have a smell, the manufacturers lace it with foul-smelling additives so we can immediately tell if there’s a leak!
- Watch out for the carbon monoxide your heater produces. Save yourself and get a carbon monoxide detector. CO pushes out oxygen from the air while being invisible and odorless. Although the wall heaters we recommend are vent-free (they don’t need vented), this is always something to keep in mind.
- Keep your heater away from kids and pets. Only a few models are ‘safe to touch.’ And while many have auto shut-off if they’re knocked over, this still isn’t something you can compromise on.
Conclusion
Most propane heaters offer more heating power than electric ones. Some models may not be as accurate, but when coupled with a thermostat, they can provide a consistent and reliable heating experience.
I hope I’ve helped you make a clearer decision about getting your own propane heater. Or at least upgrading the one that you have with a thermostat converter kit.
As always, there’s not a model that would work perfectly for everyone. Take time to re-evaluate your needs, revisit the above reviews, and pick the unit that ticks off everything right.
Have a beautiful day!
– Craig