TOP 12 catalytic gas heaters for tents: an overview of the best models and tips for buyers

Features of choice

Using a heater while hiking.

Summarizing the above, you can choose the appropriate model, based on the possibilities and conditions of the hike. If you have to go fishing with a tent or relax in the cold season, it’s best to use a tourist gas heater, plus which is in local heating.

When setting up a large campground, it is worth stocking up on a heater with metal emitters, which is able to cope with a large heating area.

If you have a tent vacation with children, the best option would be to choose a heater with a catalytic grid. It does not give a flame, thereby preventing the possibility of a burn.

You should purchase the device in specialized sports stores that sell hiking equipment. If there are difficulties with the choice of the required equipment, then you should contact the sales consultant. His advice will come in handy.

A little about gas cylinders

The tank is filled with a mixture of propane and butane in a liquefied concentration under high pressure. When the gas mixture is consumed, the cylinder begins to cool from the inside. The more intensive the process is, the faster the vessel will freeze and it will be impossible to get gas until the cylinder is heated.

In order for the gas supply to be normal in winter camping conditions, the mixture cylinder must be covered with warm insulating material. If all the necessary measures are taken, a cylinder weighing 11 kilograms should be enough to heat the room for 15 hours.

2 Types of catalytic heaters

Catalytic heaters are divided into types depending on what fuel they work on. Therefore, they share:

1. Infrared catalytic heaters.
2. Bartolini gas catalytic heater.
3. Petrol catalytic heater.

Catalyst type gas heater

Such a heater can be completely mobile, which makes it convenient to transport. Therefore, often such devices are bought for summer cottages, where it makes no sense to install a stationary heating system.

Also, a catalyst-type gas heater is a good option for heating a tent, since, unlike a conventional gas-powered appliance, it does not emit harmful substances into the air. This is a huge plus, since the ventilation of the tent, which reduces the temperature inside it, is no longer needed.

To operate such a device, you will need liquefied propane-butane, which can be purchased in special cans.

It is worth noting that although the heat transfer of such a device is high, the heating effect can be enhanced. To do this, you can use, as well as a fan that will drive hot air, which will speed up the heating of the room.

This is good if the housing has not been heated for a long time and the walls are very cool. But there is also a minus - for the operation of the heating element and the fan, electricity is required.

Gasoline catalytic heater

The gasoline catalytic heater also has good heat dissipation. It works by oxidizing gasoline vapors that enter through a special tube.

The principle of operation of such a device is not particularly different from catalytic heaters running on gas. It can also be used for , tent, warehouse, garage and other facilities.

Overnight in a tent is a circumstance known to many from fishing trips, picnics and other situations. At night, you can do without heating in a tent only in the summer, while in the rest of the months that are still quite warm during the day, you should take care of the camping method of heating at night, which most often becomes a portable heater.

Manufacturers of camping equipment and camping equipment today offer a variety of compact stand-alone heaters designed to heat tents and temporary shelters in the field.

Consider the most common heaters used in field conditions, in terms of their characteristics matching the necessary requirements.

If we do not consider tents and tent structures for industrial or military purposes with the ability to accommodate large groups of people, a tent is a well-known accessory for a hunter, fisherman, traveler or just going on a picnic.

Small-sized Elekon gas heater with standard gas mini-cylinder.

The device is a small volume, frame or frameless type, made of waterproof canvas, which also does not allow air to pass through. The material of the tent, depending on the composition and impregnation, reacts differently to heat and an open flame.

Considering these factors, the heater for suitability for its use in

The tent must have the following characteristics:

• security is the most important requirement given the miniaturization of housing and remoteness from the services of assistance;
• compactness - for ease of transportation by personal transport, transfer and placement in conditions of shortage of living space;
• sufficient efficiency - a portable heater with a compact design must cope with its purpose;
• efficiency - providing the unit with fuel should not be burdensome;
• rational functionality - the possibility of using the unit for cooking or heating outside the tent is welcome;
• ease of operation.

Classification

It should be noted that not all gas heaters work according to the above principle. Depending on the method of obtaining thermal energy from blue fuel, gas heaters are divided into three main classes:

• Gas convectors - have a burner design and work on the principle of a gas gun. During the combustion of fuel, thermal energy is generated, which, with the help of a fan, is directed by a stream to the desired area. The disadvantage is the presence of an open flame and relatively large losses.
• Catalytic heaters - their distinctive feature is the presence of a catalytic panel that converts fuel into thermal energy by oxidizing it. There is no combustion process in such devices, therefore they are the safest and most environmentally friendly sources of heat. But their main disadvantage is the relatively high cost of the panel itself. Therefore, heaters operating on the principle of catalytic combustion are purchased relatively rarely.
• Infrared heaters emit directional IR radiation from a ceramic burner. Unlike the previous type, they still require gas combustion, but they are capable of generating a large thermal power and are characterized by a much larger heating area.

Rice. 3: infrared gas heater device

Comparing the above types of gas heaters, it can be noted that catalytic and infrared heaters have significant advantages over the classic heating device. Of these two, catalytic ones are preferred for rooms up to 20m2. Above 20m2, infrared ones have an undeniable advantage, so they can be used not only as a space heating system, but also as outdoor heaters.

The classification of infrared gas heaters can be divided according to several criteria.So all devices can be conditionally divided into two main groups: autonomous and powered by main gas pipelines. The first of them requires the installation of a gas cylinder that feeds the heater; they can be taken with you to nature to heat the tents. The latter must be powered from the central gas pipeline and cannot be moved from place to place, to new facilities without a gas supply system to this point.

By type of placement, infrared gas heaters are divided into:

• Floor - which are installed on horizontal surfaces using a special stand or by means of structural elements; Fig. 4: outdoor IR gas heater
• Ceiling - suspended from the ceiling directly above the area that needs to be heated, such models save space in rooms with a small quadrature, since they themselves do not occupy usable space; Fig. 5: ceiling IR gas heater
• Wall-mounted - identical to previous gas heaters with the difference that infrared radiation from them can be directed to the right place, both near the device and at the other end of the room, and not just under the gas heater.

The best gas heaters in the form of tiles

Hyundai H-HG3-25-UI777

A multifunctional portable device that is equally suitable for use as a stove for camping and for heating rooms up to 25 m2, greenhouses or garages. A nice bonus is the included grill grate, which allows you to turn an ordinary heater into an oven for cooking simple camping food.According to the owners, gas is consumed quite economically (about 218 g per hour). Another advantage that literally all buyers note is increased reliability and safety. The device is equipped with a nozzle for connection to the gas line.

Advantages:

• compactness, lightness;
• virtually trouble-free operation for a long time;
• the ability to connect to the main gas through a special nozzle;
• folding legs;
• versatility, the ability to use on a hike.

Minuses:

• inability to use a tourist gas cylinder. Only tanks of 12 and 50 liters can be used;
• understaffing with a reducer stabilizing the gas supply. You have to buy extra (it is inexpensive).

Solarogaz GII-3.65

The gas burner of infrared radiation "Solarogaz" has the following scope: heating of small rooms, drying after construction and painting work. Can be used in industrial premises, outbuildings, greenhouses. An excellent "car" option for truckers. The device takes up a minimum of space in the car, it is possible to use it for cooking. For anti-corrosion effect, the heater is painted with lead-free powder enamel. There are 3 modes of operation: 1 - horizontal and 2 - at an angle.

Emitter Advantages:

• low price;
• efficient stable operation, high efficiency. The formation of the microclimate occurs both due to direct radiation of heat, and from heating by infrared radiation of surrounding objects;
• reliability. Ceramic emitter from the German company Raushert ensures stable operation;
• mobility due to low weight;
• economical gas consumption;
• almost complete absence of noise.

Minuses:

• the hose included is a pure formality. Made of plastic and stops bending even at +5 degrees;
• intense burning of the galvanized frame;
• the need for thorough ventilation.

Pathfinder Dixon 4.62 kW

This heater is ideally suited to the peculiarities of the Russian climate. Its main feature is versatility, the possibility of using it in capital and temporary premises and in summer cottages (the maximum footage of a heated room is 30 m2). Dixon has proven itself well both in field conditions and for heating open areas.

The fuel source is a propane tank. Nominal gas pressure:

• liquefied - 2.9 kPa;
• natural - 1.3 kPa.

The temperature of the radiating surface is 700-800 degrees.

Advantages:

• long working life;
• high level of safety and efficiency. In particular, this is true for use in field conditions;
• quick preparation for work;
• energy independence;
• small size, light weight;
• good power;
• economical fuel consumption.

There are no cons. With all the tasks within the area of ​​​​use, the heater copes perfectly.

Which company's gas heater to choose

Various companies are fighting for world leadership in this field, but among them there are clear favorites, whose equipment is distributed in many countries.

Among the best representatives of the segment are:

1. Ballu

2. Timberk

3. Kovea

4. Pathfinder

5. Siabs

The first company has its headquarters in Hong Kong, but its branches are spread all over the world. Large offices are located in Japan, Lithuania, Korea, Poland and China. The main specialization of this corporation is climatic equipment.In her department there is a large design office and laboratories for experimental design.

Another concern originating in Asia is Timberk, which has existed since 2004. The marketing network covers all of Eastern Europe, Russia, and the CIS countries. The range includes more than 120 types of climatic products, including split systems and heaters.

A highly specialized company with domestic production and export to neighboring countries is the Pathfinder company. Operating since 1991, it has focused its activities on camping equipment and equipment, of which compact gas heaters are an integral part.

Innovative technologies are also actively used by the Italian company Siabs, whose models have no analogues and are reliable in operation.

Safety of use

Any gas equipment is a potential source of danger. Incorrect operation or malfunction of the device can lead to serious consequences: fires, smoke and even cylinder explosions.

It is necessary to use only reliable and serviceable equipment, branded hoses and reducers so that there is no accidental gas leakage.

Security is 90% dependent on human actions. Safety precautions must always be followed. It is strictly forbidden to leave cylinders, gas convectors and heaters unattended, to place them near other heated bodies, flammable objects and liquids. Do not allow children to touch the heater and even more so to play near it.

Choice

How to choose the right heater? It is necessary to pay attention to several important criteria:

Device type. The device is mobile and stationary.The second option is ideal for enclosed spaces. A portable is required to heat the tent while camping.
Versatility

It is important that the device can operate from the central line and cylinder. Then it will be much more convenient.
Safety

It is advisable to purchase devices where there is a function for analyzing the level of oxygen, a combustion sensor, and the possibility of shutting off gas.
Power level. It is determined by the size of the area. The larger it is, the higher the power should be.

These parameters are the main selection criteria

This is what you need to pay attention to first of all. Based on the presented aspects, a rating of quality devices was created

Overview of the best manufacturers

An extensive range of catalytic heaters is represented by various imported and domestic brands. Consider several manufacturers whose products are recognized by consumers as the best in this area.

No. 1 - reliable and functional Bartolini devices

Heating equipment of the Italian brand Bartolini is the most in demand on the market. The company produces quite powerful devices with a capacity of 2900 to 4200 W, running on liquefied gas.

The main emphasis in production is on the independence of equipment from the presence of communications.

Almost all of the presented models are equipped with gas cylinders built into the body, have several power modes with the possibility of stepwise adjustment, and are offered in different configurations. The operation of the devices is based on the conversion of thermal energy into infrared radiation.

Most of them have CO2 control sensors, rollover shutdown systems. Among buyers, the Bartolini pullover k model is especially in demand.

No. 2 - compact and economical models from Campingaz

The next most popular company is Campingaz

This French company produces efficient and safe gas heaters for residential, warehouse, commercial and industrial premises. Special attention is paid to portable equipment that provides a comfortable stay in nature.

Campingaz heaters are characterized by small dimensions, stylish modern design, and long working life. They are equipped with reliable sensors-analyzers that guarantee the safety of device operation.

Brand devices provide excellent heat dissipation, have European quality certificates. Their production involves new technologies for economical fuel consumption.

The average cost of products is 11 thousand rubles. The best representative of the range is Campingaz cr 5000 turbo.

No. 3 - comfortable and safe Kovea brand heaters

The Korean company Kovea offers customers gas heaters of various designs. Mostly these are compact portable models of low power, operating on the basis of infrared radiation.

The main difference between Kovea heaters is the simplicity of the device, compactness and light weight. They are very convenient to use, but are designed for heating a small area. They are mainly used outdoors, hiking, in small garages and utility rooms.

The Korean manufacturer practically does not use plastic elements in the design of its devices, which further increases the safety of operation. The average price of products is 5-8 thousand rubles.

No. 4 - inexpensive and hardy heaters from Argo

The budget version of the catalytic heater is offered by the domestic manufacturer Argo.The gas heat generator of this company is designed for heating industrial premises, garages, verandas with normal air circulation. Farmers often use it in greenhouses, sheds.

The device runs on gas supplied through a special hose from a cylinder with a volume of 5-15 liters. With a performance of 2900 W, 250 g / h of fuel is consumed. Despite the minimum percentage of carbon dioxide emissions, the device must not be operated in poorly ventilated rooms.

With not too large dimensions, the weight of the device is 6.7 kg. There are no wheels in it, so it is quite difficult to move it over long distances. But for stationary use, it is quite suitable. The approximate cost of the device is 2000 rubles.

Does the catalytic version of the device seem unreasonably expensive to you as a temporary heater for summer cottages? We recommend that you familiarize yourself with other gas appliances suitable for heating temporary accommodation.

Tent Equipment Selection Criteria

Going to the store for the device, you need to understand the purpose of the purchase and know a number of important nuances that will help you choose the best model that fully meets all the requirements.

The main factors that influence the choice of a camping gas burner:

1. Needs.
2. Weather.
3. Weight, dimensions and fuel efficiency.
4. Packing volume.
5. Compatible with different types of gas cylinders.
6. The presence of piezo ignition.

The more a person will participate in hikes and outings, the larger the dimensions of the bowlers used will be, respectively. For such cases, you will need a wider and more stable burner. For smaller groups, compact lightweight models are suitable for small-sized dishes with a small bottom diameter.

It is worth considering the fact that it will mainly be cooked on a mini-stove. For example, if these are dishes that require stewing, a sensitive flame control system is needed.

The selected burner must be suitable for the intended operating conditions. Those who plan to use it at low temperatures should clarify the stability of the fuel equipment in frosty weather.

Trouble-free operation at temperatures below zero is provided by the option of fuel preheating, wind protection or the ability to install a wind shield, designs with remote hoses

Of great importance are the weight, dimensions, packaging volume of the burner. Ease of transportation, installation and carrying depends on these parameters.

The fuel consumption indicator will give a rough idea of ​​how economical the device will be in operation.

Check which types of gas cylinders the appliance is compatible with. Most often these are cylinders with a collet or threaded fastening. The first option is more common and cheaper. There are also universal models that work with cylinders of different standards.

Of the additional functions in the device, the electric ignition system is important. It will allow you to easily start the gas at the touch of a button, eliminating the problems of lighters forgotten at home and wet matches in your pocket.

When buying a gas heater for a tent, consider the following points:

1. Power and heating area.
2. Fuel consumption.
3. Safety system.
4. Efficiency.
5. Multifunctionality.

The main parameter of the heater is thermal power. It is better to choose it, focusing on the type of your tent

It is also worth paying attention to the maximum possible heating area.

For structures made of thin summer materials, more powerful devices are needed. For products intended for autumn / spring - medium power models. For insulated winter options, light compact devices are enough

It must be foreseen that both gas burners and any equipment for heating a tent with higher power usually use more fuel.

To refuel them, you will have to take a lot of spare cartridges with you. On average, one cylinder is enough for 4-5 hours of continuous operation. We recommend that you read the instructions for refueling the can with your own hands.

Since a tent can burn down in a matter of minutes, a safety system must be thought out in the heater. Infrared models are the safest in the segment

It is desirable that the device be additionally equipped with an overpressure safety device, leakage protection mechanisms, and an automatic shutdown system. One of the safer and more efficient types of gas tent heaters are catalytic ones.

The heater, which is used to heat the tent with gas, with compact volumes, must provide sufficient thermal efficiency, quickly warm up the tent. For hiking and outdoor recreation, universal models are ideal, combining the possibility of heating and cooking.

The best outdoor heaters

When it is required to heat an open space on the street (a picnic in nature or gatherings in a courtyard gazebo in spring and autumn), then gas-fired outdoor heaters are used. They feature a stylish design and a tall body to distribute heat over a large area. Below are the models most liked by users.

Siabs Kaliente - elegant heating

One of the most beautiful and expensive types of outdoor heater is Siabs Kaliente. This Italian machine stands 233 cm tall and is a vertical piece of equipment reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower in miniature. The power of the heater is 10.5 kW, and its heating capacity covers 35 square meters. Housing materials are aluminum and stainless steel.

The lower part has LED lighting for decoration. Weight with a filled cylinder will be 33 kg. Continuous operation is enough for 10-18 hours, depending on the set mode. The flame burns in a closed flask under glass. This gives a beautiful effect and warmth in the form of infrared radiation. High quality case assembly. Stands firmly on the ground.

Advantages:

• very beautiful design;
• economical gas consumption;
• stainless materials;
• good stability;
• safe;
• integral protective grille.

Flaws:

• packaging stickers on the case are poorly torn off;
• high price;
• a lot of unnecessary technical information in the passport.

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ENDERS Elegance - for a cozy stay with a small company

This German heater is much cheaper than its counterparts and is designed for a range of only 9 meters. The design of the device resembles a street lamp with a fungus. It reaches 220 cm in height. Case material – polished stainless steel. It is practical to install it in the center of the gazebo or yard. The power of the device is 8 kW. Gas combustion consumption takes almost 600 g per hour.

Among the functionality there is a pressure regulator that monitors the maintenance of the flame. In the absence of fire, leakage protection is activated. Due to the high, narrow design, a tilt sensor is provided to cut off the fire in the burner if it falls.With a filled standard cylinder, the device will burn from 19 to 50 hours, depending on the selected mode.

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Advantages:

• anti-corrosion body material;
• beautiful original design;
• leakage and tilt protection sensors;
• the ability to use on a covered terrace, if the overlap is more than 75 cm;
• easy assembly;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• small heating area;
• ineffective in windy weather.

ACTIVA Pyramide Cheops 13600 - heating pyramid

As you can see from the name itself, this heater is created in the style of a pyramid, which has a narrow towering shape. The flame burns in a strong flask, closed with four grids. On one side there is a hinged cover that provides access to the cylinder installation site, the piezo ignition button and the adjustment switch.

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The power of the device is 10.5 kW, and the gas consumption is from 300 to 900 g per hour. The case is made of polished stainless steel, and the movement of 33 kg of the structure is carried out on wheels. Temperature and tilt sensors ensure comfort and safety.

Advantages:

• reducer and hose included;
• stainless steel;
• conversion of fire energy into infrared radiation;
• leakage sensor;
• pressure regulator;
• aluminum reflector.

Flaws:

• small heating area;
• high price;
• separate grille;
• the balloon is purchased separately;
• the shape of the pyramid is quite common among analogues.

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TOP-2 wall-mounted gas heaters

Hosseven HDU-3

The wall-mounted heater of the German company Hosseven with a power of 2.7 kW is designed for heating a room with a maximum area of ​​30 m² at a gas flow rate of 0.27 m3 / hour. The heat exchanger of the gas convector Hosseven HDU-3 is made of steel, has developed fins, which increases heat transfer, provides a quick exit to operating power after switching on. The built-in thermostat maintains the set temperature. It has a closed combustion chamber. The intake of air and the ejection of combustion products is carried out through a coaxial flue pipe. A telescopic coaxial chimney is included in the scope of supply. Air heaters do not require additional organization of ventilation. The device is made of high quality cast iron, which ensures a 50-year service life. All air heaters are equipped with a POLIDORO burner and SIT gas fittings, which additionally guarantees the reliability and durability of the equipment.

Pros:

• good quality assembly materials;
• closed combustion cycle makes the convector safe for health;
• beautiful, compact;
• the ability to work from a cylinder with liquefied gas;
• gas valve Sit (Italy).

Minuses:

• with a strong warm-up, it starts to work loudly;
• high price.

A model of excellent quality, which, according to the manufacturer, is designed for 50 years, with a high efficiency of 90%. The device is safe due to the closed combustion chamber, after its operation it is not necessary to ventilate the room due to the smell of gas or burning. Of the minuses - it starts to work noticeably louder when it gets very hot, otherwise it is a very successful and good device. The price is 15500 rubles.

Alpine Air NGS-50

4.9kW gas wall mounted heater with high quality cast iron heat exchanger for 50 years trouble free operation, same as Hosseven HDU-3. Designed for space heating with a maximum area of ​​50 m² at a flow rate of 0.51 m3/h. The closed type of the combustion chamber, the built-in electrically independent thermostat provide comfort and convenient operation of the device in living quarters. It is supplied with a telescopic flue pipe, which provides both air supply for operation and removal of combustion products to the outside of the building. A wind protection block is installed at the outer end of the pipe for stable operation of the convector in all weather conditions. Can work from the main or from the liquefied gas (separate complete set).

Pros:

• nozzles for conversion to liquefied gas are included in the delivery;
• the built-in fan speeds up the heating of the room;
• durable cast iron heat exchanger (service life - more than 50 years);
• the possibility of setting the room temperature in the range of 13–38 ºC.

Minuses:

• high price;
• gaskets between cast-iron and metal cases quickly fail;
• manual piezo ignition.

The model looks more attractive than Hosseven HDU-3. Both of them have almost identical parameters, their biggest difference is the price. The price is 21300 rubles. I consider it overpriced: in Alpine, gas consumption is higher, you will have to change consumables more often, for example, gaskets between cast-iron and metal cases, which fail after a couple of years of active use. In all other respects, this is an excellent device that will last for 50 years.

Advantage - compactness

The main selection criterion for such devices is its size.Many manufacturers, under the guise of tourists, offer units over 70 cm in height and weighing more than 7 kilograms. It is clear that such a device is not suitable for every adventurer. You can take it with you, except for a long trip by minibus.

Ordinary mobile devices weigh less than 2.5 kg. And their dimensions do not exceed 20 - 30 cm. Such a device takes up little space in the car, it is easy to carry and rearrange.

Works on liquefied gas, but can also be connected to the gas pipeline system (nozzles included).

Another compact Kovea KH model is 1009 Table Heater. 18 x 18 cm, and in height (on legs) 24 cm. Weight 1.35 kg.

This is a powerful heater (1.7 kW) with a tungsten radiator. Rotating reflector allows you to direct heat in the right direction.

The source of fuel must also be mobile. Threaded gas cylinders are produced, as a rule, at 220 or 450 gr. How long one such cylinder will last depends on the consumption of the device. Economic units work for 4 - 10 hours.

If you do not need a designer heating device, then you can make a heater with your own hands. You will save money, while such a device is quite capable of heating a garage or utility room. See article for instructions on how to make.

Varieties and design features of quartz heaters will be considered further.

The main types of gas heaters for tents

To find out which gas heater to choose for a tent, you need to consider each type. Gas heaters for tents are divided into the following types:

• ceramic;
• metal;
• catalytic.

The heating principle for the first option is based on the use of a ceramic plate, which is saturated with energy from the heater. The gas burns in the burner, the infrared type emitter extracts the energy, and the ceramic plate generates heat for heating. The gas infrared heater is less popular, as it has a low efficiency of 50%. The advantage of gas ceramic tent heaters is the affordable cost, which makes such devices more in demand.

The second type of tent heaters is equipped with an emitter of a metal structure. The steel bars of the working device are in a protected position, so this type of device, like ceramic, is safe. The advantage of this device is the ability to adjust the direction of the heat flow. Metal-type appliances are used for large tents, as they can be used to heat a large area. Despite this, a metal gas heater in a tent has an even lower efficiency value of 30%.

The third type of heaters is called catalytic. Such devices are the safest and most effective. The advantage of such structures is a high efficiency rate of 99-100%. The design of such heaters uses fiberglass and a layer of platinum. Models of the catalytic type are fireproof, as they do not have an open flame, and are environmentally friendly.

Fast heating and quiet operation add additional advantages to catalytic heaters for tents. These heaters are popular, and their cost is based on the power of the device.Such a disadvantage as the impossibility of replacing the "native" cartridge on most models of catalytic heaters makes it less versatile than the previous two types.