Force-Air Propane Construction Heater
Operating Instructions and Owner’s Manual
3
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
This is a propane, direct-fired, forced air heater. It’s intended
use is primarily temporary heating of buildings under
construction, alteration or repair.
Propane is heavier than air. If propane leaks from a
connection or fitting, it sinks to the floor, collecting there
with the surrounding air, forming a potentially explosive
mixture. Obviously, propane leaks should be avoided, so set
up the propane supply with utmost care. Read enclosed Odor
Fade and Propane Sheet for additional information about
detecting propane leaks. Leak check new connections or
reconnections with a soap and water solution and follow all
connection instructions herein. Also, ask your propane dealer
for advice on the propane application and supply installation
and ask him to check it if there are any questions.
This heater was designed and certified for use as a
construction heater in accordance with ANSI Standard Z83.7/
CGA 2.14. Check with your local fire safety authority if you
have any questions about your applications. Other standards
govern the use of fuel gases and heat producing products
in specific applications. Your local authority can advise you
about these.
Direct-Fired means that all of the combustion products enter
the heated space. Even though this heater operates very
close to 100 percent combustion efficiency, it still produces
small amounts of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (called
CO) is toxic. We can tolerate small amounts but not a lot.
CO can build up in a heated space and failure to provide
adequate ventilation could result in death.
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•
headache
•
dizziness
• burning eyes and nose
•
nausea
• dry mouth or sore throat
So, be sure to follow advice about ventilation in these
operating instructions.
Forced Air means that a blower or fan pushes the air through
the heater. Proper combustion depends upon this air flow;
therefore, the heater must not be revised, modified or
operated with parts removed or missing. Likewise, safety
systems must not be circumvented or modified in order to
operate the heater.
When the heater is to be operated in the presence
of other people the user is responsible for properly
acquainting those present with the safety precautions
and instructions, and of the hazards involved.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1. Check the heater thoroughly for damage. DO NOT operate a
damaged heater.
2. DO NOT modify the heater or operate a heater which has been
modified from its original condition.
3. Use only propane gas.
4. Use only VAPOR WITHDRAWAL propane supply. If there is any
question about vapor withdrawal, ask your propane dealer.
5. Mount the propane cylinders vertically (shutoff valve up).
Secure them from falling or being knocked over and protect
them from damage.
6. Locate propane containers at least (USA) 7 ft. (2.13m),
(Canada) 10 ft. (3m) from the heater and
do not
direct
exhaust toward containers.
7.
IMPORTANT
Use only the hose and regulator assembly
provided with the heater. Match the color stripe on the hang
tag attached to the hose assembly with the color on the label
located near the propane inlet fitting on the heater. Inspect
hose assembly before each use of the heater. If there is
excessive abrasion or wear, or hose is cut, replace with hose
assembly listed on parts list before using heater.
8. For indoor use only. Area must be well ventilated.
Figure 1
.
(also see “Operating Precautions”).
9. If at any time gas odor is detected, IMMEDIATELY
DISCONTINUE operation until the source of gas has been
located and corrected. Read enclosed Odor fade and Propane
Sheet for additional information about detecting propane
leaks.
10. Install the heater such that it is not directly exposed to water
spray, rain and/or dripping water.
11. Maintain minimum clearance from normal combustible material
(like paper).
Figure 2
.
12. Due to the high surface and exhaust temperatures, adults and
children must observe clearances to avoid burns or clothing
ignition.
13. Operate only on a stable, level surface.
14. Do not use with duct work. Do not restrict inlet or exit.
15. Use only the electrical power specified. The electrical
connection and grounding must comply with National Electrical
Code - ANSI/NFPA 70 (USA) and CSA C22.1 Canadian Electrical
Code, Part 1 (Canada).
16. Use only a properly grounded 3-prong receptacle or extension
cord.
17. Do not move, handle or service while hot or burning.
18. Do not adjust the heater combustion tube elevation while
heater is running or hot. Adjustments to elevation should only
be made after the heater has cooled to touch.
19. Use only in accordance with local codes or, in the absence of
local codes, with the Standard for the Storage and Handling
of Liquefied Petroleum Gases ANSI/NFPA 58 and CSA B149.1,
Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code.
Opening
Opening
Heater
near floor
near ceiling
Forced air (
MH170QFAVT
) 3
ft
2
3
ft
2
Clearance
Forced Air 170QFAVT
From floor ......................................................0 ft
From outlet .....................................................6 ft
From sides ......................................................2 ft
From top ........................................................3 ft
Locate 10 ft. from canvas or plastic tarpaulins or similar
coverings and secure them to prevent flapping or movement
due to wind action.
VENTILATION: Minimum openings required
Figure 2:
MINIMUM CLEARANCE: From normal combustible materials
