When the temperatures drop, finding reliable heat becomes essential, whether you’re out in the wild or just hanging out in your garage. Enter the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro Series Propane Heater. With its 18,000 BTU output, this heater promises to keep you warm and cozy in spaces up to 450 square feet. Whether you’re an avid camper, a hunter braving the cold, or simply need extra heat for an indoor space, the Big Buddy Pro has you covered. Let’s break down what makes this heater stand out.
Key Features of the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro
Heating Power
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro offers three heating levels—4,000, 9,000, and 18,000 BTU—so you’re never stuck with just one option. If you’re in a smaller space, like a tent or an RV, the low or medium setting will do the job without overwhelming you. But when you’re dealing with a bigger area, or if you’re out in the freezing cold, crank it up to 18,000 BTU, and you’ll feel the warmth right away.
What’s great about this heater is the ability to adjust the heat depending on your needs. With just a flick of a switch, you can go from keeping a small room cozy to heating up a garage or larger outdoor space. Whether you’re dealing with a light chill or full-on frost, this heater can adapt.
Safety Features
One of the biggest concerns with propane heaters, especially for indoor use, is safety. The Big Buddy Pro takes this seriously with some essential built-in safety features. The Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) is a game-changer. It automatically shuts off the heater if oxygen levels dip too low, making it safer to use indoors in well-ventilated areas. This is particularly useful if you’re using the heater in enclosed spaces like cabins or tents.
And if you’ve ever knocked over a heater (we’ve all been there), you’ll appreciate the tip-over shutoff. The minute the heater tips over, it shuts down to prevent any accidents. These features offer peace of mind, allowing you to use the heater confidently in a variety of settings, even if you’ve got pets or kids running around.
Dual Propane Tank Connection
One thing that sets the Big Buddy Pro apart from other heaters is its dual propane tank setup. You can connect two 1-pound propane cylinders for short-term use, which is perfect for camping trips or tailgating events. But if you need extended heating, you can hook up a 20-pound tank (with an optional hose), giving you hours of warmth without having to swap out tanks.
This versatility is a huge plus. If you’re only out for a night or two, the 1-pound tanks are lightweight and easy to transport. But for longer stays or emergency heating at home, being able to attach a larger tank ensures you won’t run out of heat when you need it most.
Practical Uses of the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro
Indoor Use for Heating Small to Medium Spaces: Let’s face it, not every home or cabin has perfect heating. That’s where the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro shines. Its ability to heat spaces up to 450 sq. ft. makes it ideal for everything from a drafty garage to a cabin in the woods. You can set it on low for a cozy night in or crank it up to high when you need to warm a larger area fast.
One thing users often rave about is how quickly it heats up the space. You won’t be waiting hours for the room to warm—within minutes, you’ll start feeling the difference. Plus, thanks to the ODS, you can use it indoors safely, as long as you follow the proper ventilation guidelines.
Outdoor and Emergency Heating: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, this heater is a must-have for cold-weather trips. Whether you’re setting up in an ice fishing hut, a hunting blind, or a campsite, the Big Buddy Pro is built to handle the elements. It’s portable enough to take with you on the road and powerful enough to keep you warm even when the mercury dips low.
The 11-hour runtime on low with dual tanks means you can spend an entire day out in the wild without needing to refuel constantly. And when you’re out in extreme cold, having a heater you can rely on makes all the difference. But it’s not just for fun trips—this heater also works wonders in emergencies, like power outages during winter storms.
How to Use the Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro
Using the Big Buddy Pro is as easy as it gets. Start by attaching the propane tanks (either two 1-pound tanks or one 20-pound tank with an adapter hose). The Piezo ignition system means you don’t have to mess around with matches or lighters—just push and turn the knob, and the heater ignites.
The heater comes with swivel regulators, which makes connecting the propane tanks a breeze. These regulators rotate, making it easy to hook everything up even in tight spaces. Once connected, you’re just a knob-turn away from warmth.
Maintaining Proper Ventilation
While the ODS sensor makes this heater safer for indoor use, it’s still important to keep the area properly ventilated. Cracking a window or ensuring airflow in the space will help avoid carbon monoxide buildup. The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro does its part in monitoring oxygen levels, but a little extra precaution never hurts.
Pros
Cons
Comparison with Other Models
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro vs. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy: When comparing the Big Buddy Pro to the smaller Portable Buddy, it’s all about heat output. The Portable Buddy maxes out at 9,000 BTU, which is fine for smaller spaces, but if you’re heating a larger area or dealing with serious cold, the Big Buddy Pro’s 18,000 BTU output is the clear winner. The dual tank setup on the Big Buddy also means longer runtime, making it better suited for extended trips or larger properties.
Big Buddy Pro vs. Other Outdoor Heaters: Compared to other propane heaters, the Big Buddy Pro holds its own with features like the ODS sensor and multiple heat settings. While some heaters might offer more portability or lighter designs, the Big Buddy Pro balances portability with power, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
Conclusion
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro Series Propane Heater is a reliable, powerful solution for anyone who needs dependable heat in cold conditions. Whether you’re camping in the great outdoors, ice fishing, or just warming up a garage, this heater delivers consistent performance with important safety features like the ODS and tip-over protection.
While it may be bulkier than some alternatives and requires manual heat adjustments, its high BTU output and flexible fuel options make it a solid investment for anyone facing cold-weather challenges. For those looking to stay warm without fuss, the Big Buddy Pro is a worthy contender.
Dustin Barnard is the editor-in-cheif at Urban Heavenly, a platform dedicated to making homes more beautiful and functional. With a passion for design and a keen eye for detail, Dustin shares practical advice, innovative ideas, and DIY tips to help homeowners transform their spaces into personal sanctuaries.