Mr Heater vs Propex HS 2000

[@aired-downdisconnected4125]

I've been using the heater buddy in our teardrop with no issues. Close roof vent and crack side windows open or you lose heat faster. We strap it to the wall and run in 10mins before getting in, then run it about 30-40mins before going to bed then shut it off. Good all night. Also tested up above 8,000ft with no issues.

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You! heck my other videos kzbin.info SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info?sub_confirmation=1

[@MrMeanderthal]

I have the HS 2800 model in my trailer.. I used to have a heater similar to Buddy type.. it's a different brand but is exactly the same type and is the bigger (10,000 BTU) model with two 'burner' sections.. when I used it I never let it run while i was sleeping or out of my trailer.. when it was winter I got to trailer after work and put it on high (2 burners) then turned it down (1 burner) in 15-20 minutes when it started to get hot in the trailer.. then when it got too hot I would turn it off.. then on - off for the evening until bed time when I turned it off for the night.. during the average cold weeks in winter ( -5 C to -10 C) it would use a 20 pound propane tank in 4 days... now I use Propex heater and because it it safe I leave it on 24-7.. I use the temperature dial at (2 o'clock} during the early mourning and evening (approximately 22- 24 C) and when I'm away or in bed I turn temperature dial to (12 o'clock) (approximately 18-20 C) and during the nice temperatures it produces 24-7 it uses the 20 pound propane tank in the same time during the same weather as my Buddy type... so my trailer is warm and dry 24-7 and uses the same amount of propane as the 'Mr Buddy' type I had.. one thing I discovered is that keeping heater on 24-7 uses less fuel than turning it on and off.. this may be different for other people as weather and insulation will change things.. in Canada my HS 2800 was $1,400 + tax.. I'm not a big fan of spending lots of money so buying it was a bit uncomfortable BUT now I've used for a full year and it works great.. it's much better than I expected so I would definitely buy again.. when I say "works great" I mean that it two ways.. it works well mechanically, no problems so far and it's thermometer/computer part keeps my trailer in a steady even temperature.. I assume by looking at my wall thermometer (not part of Propex) that each dial setting is 'on - off' every 2 degrees C.. another thing I notice is when it turns on it runs for 10 minutes then turns off.. the 'off time' is what changes... it takes more or less time for the temperature to drop by weather but interior size of trailer is always the same so it takes the same 10 minutes to warm it up 2 degrees.. like I said I had it running 24/7 for the past year so I don't know what it works like when you actually turn it off.. if it was cold fall weather and your RV was frosty inside I have no idea how it wood work for that situation..

[@CosmoWeems]

Great review with lots of good information. Thank You Very Much check my other videos kzbin.info SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info?sub_confirmation=1

[@CafeSquirrel]

Good review of the products. I have used both a Mr buddy and a furnace style in my pup. I would say a comparison of these two devices is far off, not apples to apples. The price difference alone sets them apart. Can't expect a Cobalt to drive like a Cadillac. My biggest concern for my pup was battery supply AH as the furnace although being 3amps max when boon docking could be an issue the Mr buddy was excellent as I used a long hose to connect my external propane to it and leaving a low window open. Keep up the videos!

[@CosmoWeems]

I started with Mr Buddy. Moisture in my confined space was an issue. I did test the Propex in sub zero and loved it kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4eoc4Vum81geNE Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@tibbydoe]

Thanks for the video. I am also looking forward to winter videos.

[@thomascronquist1604]

Cosmos, when your heater is on, I would use a small fan to move the hot air from the roof are. It would be call convection heating. The heat will me comfortable and will use less fuel.

[@CosmoWeems]

Good point Tom. That is an easy option on this trailer. It has a roof fan that can intake or exhaust. With mr Heater the issue is oxygen. He gobbels it up in such a small space so I need to have the top vent - venting and air coming in. But your idea is sound and I will experiment with it. =Cosmo

[@CosmoWeems]

THANK YOU! SUBSCRIBE and see my other videos at kzbin.info

[@rw5460]

Cosmo, go back to Vestibule country for a true winter test and please report back with your results. Stay warm and bring the snowshoes and cross country skis !

[@JeanWgraceNpeace6767]

I totally wouldn't have a propane heater inside the rig as I slept (as it seems you wouldn't either). Good vid Cosmo! Thank you.

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You . Yes I tried the heater a few times but Its not safe in my opinion. SUBSCRIBE and see my other videos at kzbin.info

[@charlevoix418]

Hello Cosmo, I will have to install the Propex Heater soon in the travel trailer I am building. It is compact in size, I love it! I would appreciate if you can film the underbelly of your Vistabule to show the two holes in the floor for the intake and exhaust outlets, I want to know how they sealed those holes to avoid water penetration inside the trailer. If I can add a comment: the thermostat and the hot air outlet are quite close one to the other: I am wondering if it does allow the thermostat to work properly.

[@CosmoWeems]

Greetings from Montauk NY. Been camping here for a weeks and had temps in the low 40s. Not much of a challenge for the heater but of course I have tried it a few times. No issues with Thermostat location so far. Seems to work great as is, I looked under the trailer. I assume you downloaded the installation manual from Propex and are familiar with it. The combustion chamber air intake and exhaust are 2 small tubes that go thru the trailer floor. Looks like they sealed the hole with a hard putty - like the kind used on furnaces - not silicone rubber, The air intake is a black hose about 3 o4 5 feet long that can be positioned anywhere under the trailer. The combustion exhaust tube is about an inch in diameter and is a metal flex hose that goes to one side of the trailer terminates in the outer trailer wall. Meaning fumes are vented out the side. Seems to be zero risk of the exhaust mixing with the air intake for the furnace. The cabin air is recirculated so its not drawing air from outside. Hope this helps. Not sure when I will be able to video this but eventually I will get to it.=Comso

[@charlevoix418]

Thank you Cosmo for your answer, I will of course use the installation manual and the drilling template included with the heater. There was not that much info regarding the outlet/inlet holes sealing method and I don't want any water intrusion inside trailer and its floor. I read about using high temp silicone for that sealing job. Of course, that high temp sealant mostly applies to the exhaust outlet, less to the inlet. There is also a blue insulating sleeve that goes over the exhaust outlet, that sleeve allows connection between the flexible exhaust pipe and the heater exhaust tube.

[@charlevoix418]

I forgot to tell you that a short film about the outside and inside installation of the furnace will be greatly appreciated!

[@halfpastnews4999]

That style of Mr. Heater has a VERY sensitive tip-over switch.--After holding the button in for 4 hours I became a little concerned about my fingers dying of stiff-and--fall-off-disease. The heater slipped and accidentally hit the floor at 300 MPH.--THEN the miracle happened it lit up and performed beautifully Now right before my fingers seize up, the Heater somehow slips at the terrific speed mention and it works great.

[@CosmoWeems]

Ha ha ha I will try that if I have a problem. Mr Heater has an excellent reputation and its very cost effective. I still use mine for heating my Clam Shelter.. In my case if it had a thermostat it would be even more attractive for me. My trailer is so small i had to turn it off very frequently to keep from roasting like a turkey.. =Cosmo Thank You for watching. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@TheSwissMoose]

Great video, thank you for the comparison. Your voice sounds a lot like Adam Carolla, that's a great thing :)

[@CosmoWeems]

Thanks Swiss. Adam sounds like me! Ha ha ha. Both heaters are good. Depends on your needs. Thanks for dropping in. 𝕋𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕜 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘! ✅ Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info =𝓒𝓸𝓼𝓶𝓸 ✅

[@erikstenbakken1488]

Cool vid. DANG, that's a LOT of water! Had no idea.

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You! Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@richardnunez5329]

I have used mine above 8000 feet in cloudcroft new mexico with no issues..

[@CosmoWeems]

Thanks for sharing! 𝕋𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕜 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘! ✅ Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info =𝓒𝓸𝓼𝓶𝓸 ✅

[@pollohuaco]

I have been looking at all your videos !!!! Will need an off-road versions!

[@CosmoWeems]

I believe the will make am off road version. You would have to speak to Vistabule. I saw one at the shop that had oversized tires and was raised up

[@ppainterco]

I’m looking to add heat to my teardrop camper, but most of my camping is in excess of 8000 feet above sea level. Some heaters have oxygen sensors that won’t function properly above 7000 feet. So, I’ve been looking at the Chinese knockoffs of diesel parking heaters. They’re cheap (~$150), efficient (burns maybe a 1/2 gallon of kerosene or diesel a night). But it always comes back to how to install the darned thing.

[@CosmoWeems]

Many people like the diesel heaters. I passed on them for a few reasons. The first was there is a review I saw that checked the electrical draw. It was several amps while the glow plug is running. In my small trailer the battery (in my calculations) was not a good fit. Second I did not want to add another fuel to the trailer. (I already had propane). BUT for a slightly different rig they seem to be working and owners are happy. Good luck. Heat is a nice luxury. =Cosmo Thank You for watching. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@ppainterco]

Cosmo Weems - I boondock a good bit so I have a 110 AH battery, but I did look at power draw on the diesel heaters. They pull about 10 Amps the run the glow plug for the first two minutes or so then drop to about 1 Amp to run the fan. The glow plug is used again in the cool down cycle. So the power draw has a burst at the start and again at the end, but a relatively low draw in between. Diesel is indeed another fuel to carry, but it’s pretty cheap. The design of the diesel heaters should be safe, and they carry a CE rating, but no UL Mark. I’m kind of set on a diesel heater, but I haven’t figured out where to mount, how to mount, etc. so that I drill the fewest holes needed. Thanks for the video.

[@CosmoWeems]

@@ppainterco You could try and calculate the electric consumption. If its -5F out and the heater is cycling on every 15 or 30 min you can multiply the cycles by the hours you intend to use the heat and get a rough idea of the electrical draw. It seems most are making it work. If your in a teardrop you do have a space limitation.

[@ppainterco]

Cosmo Weems I’m still learning about them, but it seems that a diesel heater uses the glow plug only for the initial ignition and then controls fuel flow to maintain the burn rate. Thus, the glow plug isn’t used again until toward the end which is used for a cleaning function. A really cold night means that you’re not cycling the glow plug. If nothing else, I enjoy learning, which is why I enjoy watching videos by persons such as yourself. Thanks!

[@robertbrawley5048]

@@ppainterco the Chinese diesel heaters run on gasoline thats what 6 out of 6 different youtube channels say and demonstrate

[@Mity_Moose]

One question I think I missed, Cosmo. Is there just one flame rate? On only? Wondered for such a small place, could it be set to a lower heat consumption? I am looking forward to your winter review. Will that fan going on and off all night be a bother?

[@CosmoWeems]

The Mr Heater Buddy only has one setting which is on. No temperature control. The Propex HS200 has a thermostat to turn it off when it reaches the desired temperature. I am eager to check it out in cold weather too! Will have to see about the sound. I live near railroad tracks and if I could get used to that I should be able to adjust to this. It is louder hear the headboard than sleeping with my head towards the front under the window. Will let you know. =Cosmo

[@Mity_Moose]

Hey thanks for the quick reply... Now the world waits!

[@CosmoWeems]

Its up to nature to provide some cold weather. I am very curious about propane consumption too. I have a small 10 pound tank on the trailer. 20 pounds is typical for gas grills and RVs. Usually by Thanksgiving I start seeing temps in the 20s and when they dip that low I will make every effort to "get out there" and take some measurements of heat and fuel consumption!

[@karloskelly]

1.9 amps consumption, btw.

[@ummbeer1]

Is there an install video of the propex heater?

[@CosmoWeems]

If you do a search on KZbin for Propex installation you can see videos of the install! Thank You for watching. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@lisablaus1459]

Might you suggest the switch to Vistabule ? I would like to have the frig on also.

[@CosmoWeems]

Well its not one size fits all. Some people want a master switch that cuts all power from the battery to the trailer. Some like me done need that, its easy to add the switch if you go that route I can provide details. Takes a few min with minimal tools. Thanks for your input =Cosmo

[@lisablaus1459]

Yes please! Simple how to instructions......

[@CosmoWeems]

More when I get home. Out camping in Montauk NY. Regards. =Cosmo

[@BudgetTravelGuy]

Opinions on the Propex now that you've put it through it's paces?

[@CosmoWeems]

There is lots of chatter about Diesel heaters. They are not a fit for my minimalism. There would be adding a liquid fuel to my tiny trailer. With Propex I only have Propane. I think the Propex is the most fuel and electric efficient heater available that I know of. But I dont know everything. If I was doing it over with my trailer I would do it the same way. =Cosmo

[@ytJnC]

Any issues with the thermostat located so close to the heat vent?

[@CosmoWeems]

No issues with the thermostat location. Used it overnight last week in temps of low 40s SUBSCRIBE and see my other videos at kzbin.info

[@pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN]

Very well explained indeed. A1.

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You! Check my other videos kzbin.info Better yet SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info?sub_confirmation=1 and

[@lisablaus1459]

Did Vistabule install that heater for you?

[@CosmoWeems]

Hello Lisa. Yes they did in August. It took about a day. They added the port woodwork where the hot air comes out which I don't think I could do myself.=Cosmo

[@christopherdelaney5471]

Cosmo, What is the speaker system on the top-shelf of the cupboards? What is their power and amplification supply? I purchased a Vistabule (#190) this year and need a Hi-Fidelity work around.

[@CosmoWeems]

Hello Christopher. We all have our levels of Hi-Fi satisfaction. The stereo in the trailer is a Tivoli Model two (no longer made) runs on 12V and 120V. If you buy one used - it would be pretty old so maybe not a good idea now. Another option I am using is the JBL FLIP 4 which is a Blue Tooth speaker which also takes an wire connection like an ear bud. With that you can play MP3s and other audio in put. Even a small portable radio sounds good thru the speaker. Its totally waterproof and plays for about 12 hours on a charge. Bass is pretty surprising for such a small unit. I show it in some of my other videos. I have 2 of the FLIP 4 speakers for stereo Check my other videos kzbin.info SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info?sub_confirmation=1

[@CosmoWeems]

Audio output on the Tivoli is 10 watts not sure about the JBL but you can look it up JBL is totally waterproof - submersible. www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=JBL+Flip+4

[@kvhvtke1935]

Most people over ventilate with a propane heater really you shouldn't have to do anything but crack a window and answer Less I'm no expert and that's just my opinion which ain't worth much but I've been in campers an awful lot and that's all we ever did was crack it but half inch to an inch never got headaches ever noticed anything

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You. I have 5M views on the channel and 20K subscribers. Not all of them have both oars in the water. So I tilt towards the side of caution for their safety. Adequate ventilation is important. Adequate depends on a lot of factors. Thank You for watching. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@khadijagwen]

Got involved in the install of a 2000. Straight up nightmare.

[@karloskelly]

Explain. Anyone with basic skills will have no problems.

[@davidcarrico3385]

What made it a nightmare?

[@karloskelly]

@@davidcarrico3385 I'm guessing that they didn't read the instructions nor consult with the Propex rep for support once they created a problem. 😉

[@bruceskousen5451]

I installed my Propex heater two years ago and it wasn’t difficult at all. It’s a fantastic heater!

[@Sprintervan1]

Hmmmm.. Breathe clean air or breathe carbon monoxide? Tough question..

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You for watching. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@exploringtejas2357]

Where is the fuel coming from and how is it stored?

[@CosmoWeems]

10 Pound propane tank in the front of the trailer piped back to the Propex heater. You cn see more in my other videos Thank Check my other videos kzbin.info SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info?sub_confirmation=1

[@alexanderjones8787]

Your a funny nice guy keep it up

[@bike-n-hikecascomaine5052]

Good review

[@CosmoWeems]

Thanks. I love exercising my gear! SUBSCRIBE and see my other videos at kzbin.info

[@ravenfeather7087]

The Propex certainly has some advantages over the Mr Heater but this was not a very good review. First of all you focused upon only one of their models. And you don't have to use the small canisters to fuel the device. And, you stated the device will not work above above 7,000 feet. I use the next size up Mr Heater and it does work at at least 8,000 feet (Yellowstone) although at that elevation it requires more ventilation because the atmospheric O2 concentration is lower and the device shuts off if you don't provide adequate ventilation. And if it's snowing the high humidity of the ambient air in combination with the H2O emitted by the heater does cause a condition of high humidity within my specific rig. That's a disadvantage but the device does, at least mine did, operate at about 8,000 feet under snow storm conditions. Under non-snow storm conditions it would probably have been more satisfactory. My Mr Heater consumes very little propane. I think you overemphasized the magnitude of the propane consumption. It's very inexpensive to operate. The Propex is probably a "good" heater and certainly has some advantages as compared to the Mr Heater products but on the other hand they are much less complex and much much less expensive. Much more difficult to install. I'm personally installing a Dickinson Marine heater because it too draws combustion O2 from the exterior of my little RV and also discharges combusted gases to the exterior. I like the fact it does not require any electricity to operate. It comes with a little low energy consumption fan but it can be run without the fan turned on. I'll keep my Mr Heater and use it in my wall tent, and in my two larger RVs because even at it's lowest setting of 4,000 btus it is in my opinion better suited for a larger space. But again, it's a device that is efficient and it's history presents a very good safety record. Not that the Propex is an inferior device. It's just a lot more expensive than a Mr Heater, even the most expensive model, and gets even more expensive if you have to hire someone to install it. And it's much more complex and has more parts which could fail. So does have some drawbacks. In general, each user has somewhat individualized wants and needs. For many the Mr Heater will do the trick without spending over $1000 if you'd don't feel comfortable self-installing a propane device.

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@CosmoWeems]

The 7,000' reference is from the company. (Website, and packaging, and manual). No scope creep please - I was only reviewing what I reviewed not the product line. In my situation without a thermostat Mr heater consumes lots more propane than the Propex - Almost double and it’s a real pain in the A** to turn it on and off if you want to maintain a livable temp in that small space with Mr Buddy. Dickinson Marine heater is not a cheap solution either. Plus installation is far more limited than the propex Some models sell for $1000. Ya no electric but no fan either. Propex draws air for combustion from outside too. Plus if your familiar with my trailer there is no way a Dickson will work. Propex can be stuffed into a small space and operate economically, efficiently, safely and quietly. Its quite popular and I am not indicating it is the best choice for you or anyone else. But it’s a great for many but not all . Thanks =Cosmo

[@patrickio8084]

@@CosmoWeems You mentioned the Propex was quiet. Can you measure the sound volume in decibels?

[@CosmoWeems]

@@patrickio8084 kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4Opg4WtbsR2jJI Thanks for watching =Cosmo

[@nwoodhou]

We have the same Propex heater in our campervan and found it very unreliable, proun to different error codes (intermittent flashing red light on the thermostat controller) difficult to reset, disappointing and expensive, particularly with a dedicated on board Lpg tank servicing both the heater and hob. The heater fan also consumes a far bit of 12v battery power when off grid. Not ideal!

[@keithnewton8981]

Mr buddy is not meant to be used in confined spaces so dangerous.

[@CosmoWeems]

That was the point of the video.

[@CosmoWeems]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGmyeYWNbp16a7c

[@davidelo5843]

I don't understand the difference than using a small BTU rv fce ! 8 or 10000 BTUs !

[@CosmoWeems]

I am not sure if your are asking a question. If your are please restate it, =Cosmo

[@davidelo5843]

Its a question !

[@CosmoWeems]

Still not clear what your asking. But I will take shot at it. The furnace is a closed combustion system - no fumes. Space heater consumes oxygen from the area its in and you havr to be more careful. BTUs are the heat measure and you can calculate how many BTUs you need to heat square footage to size your heater for the space you need to heat.

[@davidelo5843]

@@CosmoWeems I'm talking about a regular RV furnace about 10 to 20 Thousand BTUs which fits right under your seat or wall works exactly as yours and you can buy for around four hundred dollars !

[@davidelo5843]

The furnace in my truck camper is very small!

[@pollohuaco]

Want to take one home (Peru)

[@pollohuaco]

Teardrop !

[@CosmoWeems]

I will ship one to you immediately!!! Thank You SUBSCRIBE and see my other videos at kzbin.info

[@jquest43]

Ok

[@CosmoWeems]

Thank You! Check my other videos kzbin.info SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info?sub_confirmation=1

[@63j10qmpet]

heat riseis opening your top vent open is not yery smart one side vent open engouh

[@CosmoWeems]

I cant separate the heat from the combustion fumes. I open the top and it carries both out. The new heater solves both problems and eliminates water vapor from propane combustion. Thank You. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@paulhunter546]

Sorry..not much of a comparison. Less than 100.00 to over 700.00. One is able to be used immediately..the other has a fairly involved install. They both have their uses..pluses and minuses. Valid points made but comparing apples to oranges.

[@CosmoWeems]

Hi Paul, thanks for your input. I share my experience to help people who are deciding. Mr Heater puts out 20 ounces of water into the cabin air per pound of burned propane. It also competes with me for oxygen and releases combustion exhaust into my cabin. I am sure you see the results of that. It also does not have a thermostat which wastes fuel. While I own and have used both extensively I love my Propex and highly recommend it if its a match for someone. I did do a test of the Propex in sub zero weather which you may find interesting. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4eoc4Vum81geNE In my opinion the Propex is far better than the Asian diesel heaters which are electricity hogs when the glow plug is activated. Its wonderful we have so many choices at all price points! Thank You for watching. Check my other videos kzbin.infovideos SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info

[@paulhunter546]

@@CosmoWeems My response wasn't meant that you didn't have valid points..just that comparing those 2 very different heating systems wasn't really fair. As a bit of background..I've been van dwelling for over 10 years so I have a fair amount of experience in the different types of heating systems available. Not implying at all that I know everything there is about it..lol. I've used the Mr Heater and the Olympian Wave..which I think would have been a better comparison. Then a video about the Chinese diesel heaters vs the Propex would have been better..just my opinion ;-) For long term in a colder environment I believe the Propex would be superior and in the long run worth the extra expense. I'll check out your other videos as well. Take care !

[@CosmoWeems]

Not an issue and again thanks for discussing. In my opinion because there is a very large price difference its important to note the differences advantages and disadvantages. I am data drive. Give me the data and I can make a decision! Keep warm and enjoy the freedom! =Cosmo

[@georgekrug2071]

Very loud

[@CosmoWeems]

Yes but very warm. Amazing how little the sound bothers me when I am cold. I do get spoiled by the extrema quiet I enjoy boondocking alone. But occasionally I reach for the thermostat and take off my coat. Check my other videos kzbin.info SUBSCRIBE kzbin.info?sub_confirmation=1

[@karloskelly]

60 decibels loud? The optional acoustic ducting drops the sound level to a whisper.

[@davidcarrico3385]

@@karloskelly I was going to ask, is the sound from the propex itself or due to the ducting and flow of air. I would think there would be mitigation strategies for both to lower the decibel level (sound insulating around the propex or widening the ducts just to name a few).

[@karloskelly]

@@davidcarrico3385 fan noise, which the acoustic ducting quiets incredibly; exhaust noise which is quieted by a muffler.