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

Vasily Borutsky
Checked by a specialist: Vasily Borutsky
Author: Natalya Listyeva
Last update: November 2019

In conditions where it is not possible to use centralized heating systems, a catalytic gas heater for a tent will be a wonderful solution. This efficient, economical and safe appliance is suitable for heating small and temporary buildings. It quickly creates a comfortable microclimate. A compact size allows you to take the unit with you on hiking trips, fishing or hunting.

With a reliable heater on hand, you can spend time outdoors, without fear of freezing even in the most severe frosts. But how not to make a mistake with the manufacturer and what parameters should you look at when choosing? This is what we will talk about in the article - we will give a brief overview of the best models of gas heaters, consider the main criteria that are desirable to consider when choosing the right equipment, and also pay attention to safe operation.

The TOP list includes portable gas heaters for tents, tents, hunting shelters, temporary huts or cabins. The power of the devices is from 0.7 to 2.9 kW. It is these units of domestic and foreign production that are most often bought in online stores and offline networks of household appliances.

TOP-12 catalytic gas heaters for tents

A place
Product
Rating
Weight, kg
Gas consumption, kg / h
Price

Models up to 1 kW

#1

KOVEA Handy Sun (KGH-1609)

The device with high efficiency, minimum fuel consumption and low weight

Expert rating:
98
/ 100

The manual heater runs on gas cylinders and provides a comfortable atmosphere in the most difficult conditions. All structural elements are durable and do not require serious maintenance. The housing is not afraid of dampness and does not show a tendency to corrosion.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 0.9 kW
  • gas type - propane / butane
  • service area - 10 m²
  • management - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - sold separately
  • features - work only from threaded gas cylinders of the epi-gas standard, hard case for storage and transportation

Light weight, small dimensions and high efficiency make the device indispensable during long walks and tourist trips in the cold season.

Advantages
  • Power regulator
  • Inexpensive replacement parts
  • No open flame
  • Fuel economy
  • High security
disadvantages
  • Slow cooling after intensive use
  • Need for adapter for connecting collet-type cylinders
#2

TOURIST LASKA

An economical device for creating a comfortable microclimate in enclosed spaces, tents and tents

Expert rating:
97
/ 100

The TOURIST LASKA heater is made of shockproof, anodized metal. A strong protective grill covers the burner and completely eliminates the possibility of burns during operation.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 0.7 kW
  • gas type - propane / butane
  • service area - 12 m²
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - not included
  • features - compatibility with collet and threaded cylinders

The model is suitable for heating capital and temporary buildings, hunting and fishing shelters. It works reliably and is not afraid of contact with aggressive environments.

Advantages
  • Compact design
  • High efficiency
  • Ease of use
  • Versatility
  • Rich equipment (case, adapter, tripod)
disadvantages
  • Simple appearance
#3

KOVEA Fire Ball (KH-0710)

Almost weightless appliance combines for heating and fast food preparation

Expert rating:
96
/ 100

The device works effectively in small rooms, it allows you to boil tea, warm / boil simple dishes on a camping trip or make hot natural coffee in a Turk.

The strong metal case shows operational stability, holds its shape well and does not bend under impacts. A stable position of the structure is provided by legs connected to the housing by reliable fasteners.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 0.9 kW
  • gas type - propane / butane
  • service area - 8 m²
  • management - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - sold separately
  • features - heat-reflecting screen, Anti-Flare system, durable remote connecting hose, fastener-retainer for reflector, compatibility with threaded and collet-type cylinders, plastic case to protect the case from accidental damage

The model fully satisfies the need for a comfortable microclimate and hot food during fishing, hunting or hiking.

Advantages
  • Durable and reliable tungsten emitter
  • Rugged mesh for setting heavy overall utensils
  • Practical folding legs ensure stability of the heater
disadvantages
  • Short operating time on one full cylinder
  • Low base power
#4

KOVEA Cupid Heater (KH-1203)

Practical model with shockproof housing and high efficiency, even during gusty winds

Expert rating:
95
/ 100

The heating device is equipped with a ceramic heating element and is supplied in a rugged anodized metal housing.

In the process, it consumes a minimum amount of energy, is almost noisy and emits a minimum amount of combustion products into the surrounding atmosphere.Withstands intensive use and is resistant to aggressive substances, alkalis and acids.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 1 kW
  • gas type - propane / butane
  • service area - 10 m²
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - not included
  • Features - ceramic heating element, ergonomic carrying handle, case made of durable plastic to protect against external damage during transportation / operation

The gas infrared heater of the ceramic type KOVEA Cupid Heater is suitable for heating a medium-sized canvas tent, temporary shelter in nature, a small room in a summer house, a temporary hut or a change house.

Advantages
  • High security
  • Stable performance during frost
  • Immunity to overheating
  • Economical gas consumption
disadvantages
  • Poor stability on embossed surfaces

Models from 1 to 2 kW

#1

TOURIST MINI AFRICA

One of the most popular budgetary units for heating during camping trips or outdoor activities.

Expert rating:
99
/ 100

The stand-alone model is compact and has a neat appearance. Creates comfortable warmth in tents and other temporary shelters. Heats space quickly and consumes gas in an economical mode. If the cylinder is inserted distorted, it does not turn on.

Specifications:

  • type - oven
  • ultimate power - 1.2 kW
  • gas type - propane / butane
  • service area - 12 m²
  • management - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - sold separately
  • features - gas leak prevention system, protection against incorrect cylinder installation

The device is suitable for fishermen, hunters, summer residents, travelers and extreme tourists. Provides full heating for tents, tents, change houses, compact light buildings, shelters and country houses in the cold season.

Advantages
  • Economy mode (work at one full gas station for about 5-6 hours)
  • Compact dimensions
  • Safety (no open flame)
  • Comfortable grip
disadvantages
  • Perceptible smell of carbon monoxide when used in closed, poorly ventilated areas
  • The plastic case is vulnerable to external physical impact.
  • Lack of a box for transportation / carrying
#2

KOVEA Little Sun (KH-0203)

Powerful, reliable device for high-quality heating of a large tent or a spacious room

Expert rating:
97
/ 100

The vertically oriented model is equipped with a ceramic heating element, an overpressure valve and a plate that heats the gas cylinder to the optimum state. Stable at low ambient temperatures.

Thanks to the strong metal case, it tolerates transportation well and is not afraid of external physical impact.

Specifications:

  • type - oven
  • ultimate power - 1.67 kW
  • gas type - butane
  • service area - 15 m²
  • management - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • bottle - not included
  • features - heating in two modes, a reflector grid with tightly arranged rings to protect against burns in case of touch

A good option for a portable gas heater for a tent, shelter or a small camp for fishermen. Provides a stable flow of heat even in windy weather.

Advantages
  • Aesthetic appearance
  • Lock on the lid covering the cylinder cell
  • Steady legs
  • Elementary management
disadvantages
  • Light body, quickly dirty in extreme conditions
  • Lack of capacity for transportation
#3

Ranger Dixon

Medium-power working equipment of low weight and compact dimensions at a budget price

Expert rating:
96
/ 100

Despite the minimal power and economical fuel consumption, the device copes well with heating tents, tents, shelters and small rooms.

Additionally, it can be used for cooking. To do this, install the unit on a tripod and make sure that the water from the pot or kettle does not fall on a hot ceramic surface.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 1.15 kW
  • gas type - propane
  • service area - 10 m²
  • management - mechanical
  • piezo ignition - no, manual ignition
  • bottle - sold separately
  • features - nozzle with nozzle for working on natural gas

FOLLOWERS Dixon is an ideal option for hikers, fishermen and hunters. Due to its light weight and compact dimensions, the device is easy and convenient to carry.

Advantages
  • Compactness
  • Minimum weight
  • Economical gas consumption
  • Long work at one gas station (5 l is enough for 10 hours)
disadvantages
  • Lack of piezo ignition
  • Low legs
  • Single working position
#4

KOVEA Power Sense (KH-2006)

Durable and reliable unit with a tungsten radiator for heating tents in extreme conditions

Expert rating:
94
/ 100

A convenient heating device does not have plastic elements prone to melting inside. It is equipped with a special valve to relieve excess gas pressure that has arisen during operation.

Not afraid of lowering the ambient temperature. Provides comfortable warmth even in the most severe frosts. It works up to 3 hours at one gas station.

Specifications:

  • type - oven
  • ultimate power - 1.04 kW
  • gas type - butane
  • service area - 10 m²
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - not included
  • features - durable tungsten emitter, lightweight metal body, 4 fixed supports to maintain a stable position on different types of surfaces, lightweight body, hard plastic cover for protection against mechanical damage

The module is suitable for fishermen, hunters, summer residents and travelers. With its help, it is easy to quickly create comfortable conditions in a small room or tourist tent.

Advantages
  • Resistance to aggressive environments and corrosion
  • A simplified way to replace cylinders
  • Aesthetic appearance
  • Optimal cost
  • Bright color, clearly visible in the dark
disadvantages
  • Short working period on a charged cylinder

Models from 2 kW

#1

Solyarogaz GII-2.9

Practical powerful appliance with sturdy protective grill

Expert rating:
98
/ 100

The model looks simple and neat. The metal case is not afraid of corrosion and contact with aggressive environments. The heating element is protected by a durable grill. This design completely eliminates the possibility of getting burned during operation.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 2.9 kW
  • gas type - propane
  • service area - 15-25 m²
  • piezo ignition - no, manual ignition
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - sold separately
  • features - ceramic block made in Germany, good wind resistance, two working positions

The unit is suitable for heating large tents or temporary accommodation. It is often used as drying during painting and construction works.

Advantages
  • Ease of use
  • High power
  • Economical gas consumption
  • Safety
  • Efficiency
disadvantages
  • No legs
  • Lack of power control
#2

Aeroheat IG 3000

Convenient mobile unit for heating rooms from 16 to 28 square meters. m

Expert rating:
96
/ 100

The tile body is made of durable anodized metal. The surface is painted with corrosion-resistant powder enamel that does not contain lead. The model works quietly and easily copes with the heating of overall tents and premises.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 2.9 kW
  • gas type - propane / butane
  • service area - up to 28 m²
  • piezo ignition - no, manual ignition
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - not included
  • features - 2 operating positions, ceramic emitter Rauschert (Germany), asbestos-free

The product combines power and efficiency. Suitable for those who want to heat a large area without spending extra money.

Advantages
  • High power
  • Fast heating at low temperatures
  • Robust construction
  • Sustainability
  • Minimal noise
disadvantages
  • Lack of power control
#3

Pathfinder Ion

Lightweight and compact gas equipment with good efficiency and low gas consumption

Expert rating:
95
/ 100

The small-sized device is used both in everyday life and in traveling conditions. Ideal for use in difficult weather conditions in Russia.

It occupies a minimum of space and is practically no noise. It gives a high-quality heat flux during severe frosts and during strong winds.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 2 kW
  • gas type - propane / butane
  • service area - 15 m²
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - sold separately
  • features - the ability to control the gas supply

The device is suitable for use on fishing or hunting. Qualitatively heats large tents, light tents and other small rooms where people are temporarily.

Advantages
  • Light weight
  • Great power
  • Fuel economy
  • Operational strength
disadvantages
  • In the process, you need good ventilation
  • Strong heating of the protective grill
#4

Fenix ​​3600

Large and powerful tile with a wide heating panel

Expert rating:
94
/ 100

A kind of reliable tourist infrared gas heater from the budget series. Available in rugged anodized metal housing. It is not afraid of operational loads and works well at low temperatures, gusty winds and high humidity.

Specifications:

  • type - tile
  • ultimate power - 3.6 kW
  • gas type - propane
  • service area - up to 40 m²
  • piezo ignition - yes
  • management - mechanical
  • bottle - not included
  • features - heating element made of durable ceramic, the ability to work on natural gas

The tile is suitable for creating comfortable conditions in large-sized tents, country houses, temporary huts, change houses and other temporary and capital premises.

Advantages
  • High power with low fuel consumption
  • Durable protective mesh
  • Sturdy anodized metal housing
disadvantages
  • Unstable legs

Tips for choosing heating equipment

When choosing catalytic gas heaters should focus on them weight, power, fuel consumption and size of the served areafunctionality.

Units with a capacity of up to 1 kW will help to quickly create a comfortable microclimate in a tent up to 10 sq.m. If you want to heat a room of 4-6 sq.m., you should pay attention to models with the ability to work in two modes. Otherwise, at some point in the tent, tent or shelter it will become too hot.

When heating requires more overall space, devices with a power of 2 kW or more will come in handy. Using such units, you can quickly fill with heat temporary light structures or capital premises from 25 to 40 sq.m.

Gas heater with handle
It is very important that the tiles have reliable, sturdy legs. Then the model will stably hold not only on a perfectly smooth surface, but also on a relief

If you plan to go on hiking trips, you should pay attention to low-weight devices that save fuel. Then you don’t have to take a large amount with you gas cylinders.

For long trips, it makes sense to consider combi optioncombining heating function and cooking. With such an assistant, even the most extreme conditions will be much easier to transfer. And hot tea or coffee, cooked on a tile, will not allow you to freeze or catch a cold during a period of severe frost.

You may also find useful information on methods.warming gas cylinders outside in winter.

Safety during operation of heaters

When using portable gas heaters, you need to take care of the quality ventilation of the tent, shelter, temporary shelter or other room. Combustion products must be vented to the atmosphere. If this is not done, there is a great chance to get burned or gas poisoned.

Gas spray on the table
You should not save on the purchase of high-quality gas cylinders. It is important to check the availability of documents confirming the quality of the gas cylinder before purchasing

It is not recommended to leave the tile unattended in the wind for a long time. Strong gusts can knock down the appliance. If it falls to the ground, it will leak the cylinder and cause a gas leak. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with terms of use gas cylinders at home.

It is also advisable to buy gas containers from well-known manufacturers. Fuel in cylinders of an unknown company will not provide the proper level of heat and may provoke explosion or equipment failure.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Advantages, disadvantages and prospects of catalytic heating.

How to repair a catalytic tile with your own hands.

What cylinders to use for the stove - an overview of threaded and collet products.

When planning to buy a gas heater for a tourist tent, shelter for winter fishing, a small capital or temporary building, do not purchase the first device you come across from a dubious seller. Visit a reputable home appliance store or check out our online store selection and make choices based on our tips. Then the purchase will surely be successful and warm at the most extreme moment.

Do you like to relax in nature and want to talk about your model of a catalytic gas heater that helps you out even on the coldest days and nights? Show a photo of your equipment, highlight its main pros and cons found during operation.

If you only choose the appropriate heater option and you still have questions, ask them to our experts and other site visitors - the contact form is located below this publication.

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