Description

Detailed Review of the BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater

I recently tested the BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater, and let me tell you, this thing packs a punch! It’s a torpedo-style heater designed for garages, jobsites, and construction areas. I got it to heat my somewhat drafty two-car garage during the cold months. To say this heater changed the game would be an understatement. But like all things, it has its quirks. Buckle up for my no-holds-barred review because this heater deserves every bit of attention—good and bad.

My Experience – Warmth with a Side of Humor

The first time I fired up this heater, I was skeptical. I mean, it’s a portable propane heater with a fan-forced design, and I wasn’t sure how well it would do in a cold garage with terrible insulation. But within 15 minutes, I was peeling off layers like it was summer again. My kids even came out to “help” me in the garage just because the space was toasty. Imagine your garage becoming the new family hangout spot—wild, right?

Now, for the quirks. The continuous electronic ignition is handy—super easy to start, but there’s no dedicated off switch. You have to unplug it or turn off the propane tank, which feels like a small oversight in an otherwise solid design. Also, the fan noise is significant. It’s not loud enough to be unbearable, but if you’re working on something that requires concentration, it might get on your nerves.

Features That Stood Out

One thing this heater nails is versatility. The adjustable heat angle lets you direct warmth exactly where you need it, and the variable BTU output (50,000 to 85,000) allows you to customize how much heat you want. Talk about control! Overheat auto-shutoff protection and a gas-leak auto-cutoff feature make it feel like a safe choice, even for someone like me who always worries about these things.

The CSA certification adds a layer of reassurance. This isn’t just some random propane heater; it’s been tested and approved for safety. Plus, it’s 50% quieter than traditional forced-air heaters thanks to its Quiet Burner Technology. Quieter? Sure. Silent? Not so much.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to other propane heaters like the Mr. Heater Big Buddy or Dyna-Glo Forced Air Heaters, the BILT HARD holds its ground. It’s more compact and portable than the Dyna-Glo, making it a better option for smaller spaces like garages or job sites. However, the lack of an on/off switch gives the Mr. Heater models a slight edge. Energy efficiency-wise, this one is a champ—it runs longer on a single 20lb propane tank compared to the competition. But yes, propane consumption still feels like a splurge if you’re running it for hours on end.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

Let’s talk bang for your buck. While this heater isn’t the cheapest on the market, it’s definitely worth the investment if you need reliable heat in larger spaces (up to 2,125 sq. ft.). Its economical and clean-burning design ensures you’re not wasting propane unnecessarily, which offsets the cost over time. Plus, the 8-hour runtime on low settings is impressive, though you’ll burn through propane faster on high settings.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

On the plus side, the lightweight and compact design makes it super portable. Even my 13-year-old could help me move it around. On the downside, the fan noise and absence of an off switch leave room for improvement. Oh, and don’t even think about using this in windy conditions—it’s not the heater’s best friend.

If you’re okay with a few quirks, the BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater is an excellent piece of equipment. It’s durable, efficient, and gets the job done.

Pros

• Efficient Heating Power: Heats up to 2,125 sq. ft. with variable BTU output for customizable comfort.
• Portable and Lightweight: Easy to move around job sites or garages.
• Safety Features: Includes overheat auto-shutoff and gas-leak auto-cutoff protections, making it a safer option.
• Energy Efficiency: Longer runtime on a 20lb propane tank compared to competitors.
• Quiet Burner Technology: Operates at 50% less noise than traditional models.

Cons

• No On/Off Switch: Requires unplugging or turning off the propane tank to stop operation.
• Loud Fan Noise: May be distracting in quieter workspaces.
• Not Wind-Resistant: Flames tend to go out in slightly windy conditions.
• Propane Consumption: Higher settings burn through propane quickly.
• Build Quality Quirk: Some users report inconsistent performance with the adjustable knob.

What Comes with the Heater

• BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater
• 10 ft. hose
• Regulator
• Owner’s manual

How to Use Guide

1. Connect the Hose: Attach the hose and regulator to your propane tank using an adjustable wrench.
2. Position the Heater: Place the heater in a well-ventilated area and direct it towards the area you want to heat.
3. Plug It In: Connect the heater to a standard 120V outlet.
4. Turn on the Propane: Open the propane tank valve slowly to ensure the correct gas flow.
5. Start the Heater: Use the electronic ignition to ignite the heater and adjust the heat output with the knob.
6. Monitor: Check the area for proper ventilation and ensure the heater is operating safely.

Heater Use Cases

• Garages: Perfect for warming up a small or large workspace.
• Construction Sites: Provides powerful heat for outdoor or semi-outdoor job sites.
• Farming Functions: Keeps barns and utility buildings warm during colder months.
• Sporting Events: Great for tailgating or outdoor events.
• Seasonal Use: Ideal for winter months when additional heating is necessary.

How to Maintain

• Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect the hose and regulator for leaks.
• Clean the Burner: Remove dust and debris to maintain efficient operation.
• Store Properly: Keep the heater in a dry and safe location when not in use.
• Monitor Ventilation: Use in well-ventilated spaces to prevent gas buildup.

Expert Tips & Recommendations

• Ventilation is Key: Always use this heater in a well-ventilated area to ensure safety.
• Start Slow: Open the propane valve slowly to avoid performance issues.
• Use a Timer: To prevent propane wastage, set a timer for operation periods.
• Wind Protection: Use in areas shielded from wind for optimal performance.

Safety and Best Practices

• Keep Away from Flammable Objects: Maintain a safe distance from curtains, furniture, and other flammable materials.
• Monitor Children and Pets: Never leave them unsupervised around the heater.
• Fire Prevention: Always turn off the propane tank and unplug the heater when not in use.
• Use on Stable Surfaces: Ensure the heater is placed on a flat and stable surface to prevent tipping.

Warranty & Support Information

The BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater comes with a 1-year warranty. It covers manufacturing defects and allows for free exchanges for quality issues. Customer support is directly provided by the manufacturer, ensuring quick resolutions to any problems you encounter. For assistance, refer to the contact information in the included manual.

Additional information