How to Clean a Propane Heater
Dust that accumulates inside the unit of a propane heater can prevent it from lighting and ultimately adding warmth to a chilly room in a house or other enclosed area. For safety reasons, a propane heater’s oxygen sensors keep the heaters from lighting if dust is present.
Giving the propane heater a thorough cleaning can help avoid a difficult lighting process and also help keep the heater lit once ignited.
Things You Will Need
- Vacuum cleaner
- Rag
- Warm water
- Dry towels
- Paint brush
- Screwdriver
Tip
Vacuum the propane heater’s outside cover every other month. Do a thorough cleaning at the beginning of each winter season, or after the heater sits unused for long periods of time. When cleaning inside the heater, be careful to not bump any of the parts, knocking them out of alignment.
Warning
Never try to light a propane heater when you smell propane gas. Turn off the heater's gas supply and repair any gas leak(s) before lighting the heater. Check local ordinances or building codes on using propane heaters in your area before installation.
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Make sure the propane heater is turned off. Vacuum as much dust and debris as you can from the outside of the heater, and vacuum inside the vent holes and grids on the heater.
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Use a small paint brush for brushing dust away in tight areas. Gently move the brush over the igniter and the flame areas on the heater.
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Remove the screws that hold the heater's cover panel, remove it and wipe the inside of it with warm water. Dry the newly washed area and set it aside.
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Gently vacuum the parts inside the propane heater, and use the paintbrush to brush off dust from around the oxygen sensor located near the gas line tubing.
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Put the panel cover back in place and tighten the screws. Light the heater as instructed in the operating manual.
The Drip Cap
- Dust that accumulates inside the unit of a propane heater can prevent it from lighting and ultimately adding warmth to a chilly room in a house or other enclosed area.
- Giving the propane heater a thorough cleaning can help avoid a difficult lighting process and also help keep the heater lit once ignited.
- Remove the screws that hold the heater's cover panel, remove it and wipe the inside of it with warm water.
References
Photo Credits
- Gasflamme 2 image by Stefan Balk from Fotolia.com
- Gasflamme 2 image by Stefan Balk from Fotolia.com
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