Safe Luxury

Is a catalytic heater safe to use indoors ?

I am going camping in my fifth wheel this weekend and it gets pretty cool at night. I am wondering if a catalytic heater(uses propane) will be safe to use. On the box it states it is safe to use indoors for home emergencies , ice fishing, etc,But will it be safe in a small enclosed area? I realize a window will need to be open for fresh air.

Public Comments

1. Put a carbon monoxide detector in your trailer as a precaution too - some are battery operated, and others will plug into your trailers' AC system. Have a safe trip!
2. they are safe if used exactly as directed by the maker. I second the carbon monoxide detector
3. yes i use one in my tent in the winter. as long as you have at least a 6 inch vent (open window). we love this thing although it uses a lot of propane.
4. Anything that produces heat energy burns oxygen, especially something that has a flame (your catalytic heater DOES though you may not see it). As a result, there is Carbon Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide to be concerned about and Ventilation is a Key element for using one. Don't just keep one vent open... but afford cross-ventilation. It will still keep the area warm and I would suggest having it located where you won't roll over onto it or toss part of a sleeping bag onto it. I hung mine from the center support of the tent about 3 feet down from the top... it warmed the roof but didn't make it hot and I used wire to secure it (cord may burn).
5. I use one in my little camper van all the time - try and keep the heater down low with the side door cracked open a small bet let and C0-2 slide out if any - heaver than regular air - where you get allot of C0-2 is from poor combustion so if you have a good flow of air in you camper should be ok.