ProCom ML100TBAHR Ventless Propane Gas Heater Review

Description

ProCom ML100TBAHR Heater Review – My Honest Experience

I recently got my hands on the ProCom ML100TBAHR Ventless Propane Gas Blue Flame Space Heater, and let me tell you, this thing has been a total game-changer for my winter routine. Living in a drafty house where every corner feels like a wind tunnel, finding a reliable heat source is no small task. I was skeptical at first, but after a few weeks of testing, here’s my real, no-fluff breakdown.

Why I Bought It

My living room is about 300 sq. ft., and I needed something powerful yet compact to keep the space cozy. The 10,000 BTU power and the promise of 99.9% energy efficiency caught my eye. Plus, the fact that it runs on liquid propane gas seemed like a good backup plan for those inevitable power outages.

But what truly sold me? Thermostat control. I’ve always hated constantly fiddling with settings, so the idea of it automatically cycling the burner to maintain the perfect temperature was a huge bonus.

Setting It Up

Straight out of the box, this heater was surprisingly easy to install. I’m no handyman, so this was a relief! The included 20-foot propane hose and regulator were lifesavers because I didn’t have to run around hunting for accessories. Pro tip: Make sure to have a friend double-check the connections if you’re not confident with gas setups.

Once everything was hooked up, the push-button Piezo ignition made starting it up a breeze. No matches or tricky setups—just press and go.

How It Performed

I tested this heater in a few scenarios. First, my living room. Within minutes, the blue flame burner created a warm, toasty atmosphere, and the thermostat did its job seamlessly. Later, I tried it in our home office, and again, it heated the space efficiently without making it stifling.

However, the real test came when my kids decided to camp out in the garage for a “winter adventure.” Without this heater, they’d have lasted five minutes tops. The ventless design worked like a charm, and I didn’t have to worry about setting up any complicated ventilation systems.

What I Loved

1. Energy Efficiency: It’s not an exaggeration to say this heater saved me money. Compared to my electric heater, this one was far less taxing on the wallet.
2. Compact Form Factor: The sleek cabinet design fit right into our decor without standing out like a sore thumb.
3. Safety Features: As a parent, the oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) was a godsend. Knowing the heater will shut off if CO2 levels rise gives me peace of mind.

What Could Be Better

Let’s talk about the not-so-great stuff. While the heater works excellently, the operation over high altitudes (above 4,500 feet) has its quirks. We took it to a cabin in the mountains, and the pilot light struggled to stay on.

Another minor gripe? The temperature control knob feels a bit flimsy. It works fine, but I’m worried it might not hold up to long-term use.

Comparing to Competitors

I’ve used a Mr. Heater Buddy before, and while it’s great for portability, the ProCom ML100TBAHR wins hands down in terms of thermostat functionality and consistent heating. That said, the Mr. Heater is better for camping trips due to its lightweight design.

Against electric heaters like the Dyson Hot+Cool, this ProCom model is far more energy-efficient but lacks the modern aesthetic and remote control convenience.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Absolutely. While I won’t mention exact prices, considering the energy savings and the solid build quality, this heater is a great long-term investment. If you’re tired of skyrocketing heating bills, this could be your solution.

Features in Action

The heater’s multiple settings allowed me to adjust the heat output based on the room size and temperature outside. The blue flame technology distributes heat evenly, unlike infrared heaters that concentrate it in a single spot.

The ventless design is another highlight. Not needing an outside duct or chimney makes installation straightforward and hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

The ProCom ML100TBAHR Ventless Propane Gas Heater exceeded my expectations in most areas. It’s not perfect, but for its price point and features, it’s a solid choice for anyone needing efficient, reliable heating. Whether you’re using it in a living room, garage, or cabin, it delivers.

Pros

• Highly Efficient: The 99.9% efficiency ensures minimal propane wastage, making it eco-friendly and cost-effective.
• Versatile Design: Compact and sleek, it fits effortlessly in small spaces like RVs and workshops.
• Safety First: The oxygen depletion sensor and pilot light safety features make it an excellent option for families.
• Quick Installation: Comes with a 20-foot hose and regulator, reducing setup complexity.

Cons

• Altitude Limitations: Struggles above 4,500 feet, making it less ideal for mountain cabins.
• Maintenance Required: Over time, the connectors may need replacement due to wear and tear.
• Temperature Knob Durability: Feels less robust compared to other components.
• Unclear Manual: Instructions can be contradictory, especially regarding propane tank sizes.

What Comes with the Heater

• ProCom ML100TBAHR Heater Unit
• 20 ft. Hose with Regulator
• Wall Mounting Bracket
• Instruction Manual

How to Use Guide

1. Connect the Propane Hose: Ensure the hose is tightly secured to the heater and propane tank.
2. Ignite the Heater: Use the Piezo ignition button to light the pilot flame.
3. Set the Thermostat: Adjust the knob to your desired temperature.
4. Monitor Ventilation: Open a window slightly to allow airflow if used in enclosed spaces.
5. Shut Down: Turn off the gas supply and wait for the heater to cool before storing.

Heater Use Cases

• Living Rooms: Ideal for spaces up to 300 sq. ft.
• Seasonal Cabins: Perfect for low-maintenance heating during winter getaways.
• RV Heating: Compact enough for small RVs with limited space.
• Workshops/Garages: Provides efficient heating for cold workspaces.
• Emergency Heating: Great for power outages due to its propane reliance.

How to Maintain

• Clean the Pilot Assembly: Prevent clogging by cleaning it every few months.
• Inspect the Hose: Regularly check for cracks or leaks in the propane hose.
• Test the ODS: Ensure the oxygen depletion sensor is functioning correctly.
• Check the Ignition: Keep the Piezo ignition free of dust for consistent performance.

Expert Tips & Recommendations

• Use a CO Detector: Even with the ODS, it’s always safer to have a CO detector nearby.
• Pair with a Dehumidifier: Ventless heaters can cause condensation, so a small dehumidifier will help.
• Rotate Usage: Alternate between rooms to maximize efficiency.
• Monitor Propane Levels: Always keep a spare tank handy for uninterrupted use.

Safety and Best Practices

• Keep Away from Flammable Items: Maintain a safe distance from curtains and furniture.
• Childproof the Area: Ensure children can’t reach the heater or knobs.
• Avoid Overheating: Don’t leave the heater on high for extended periods.
• Proper Ventilation: Crack windows slightly to ensure fresh airflow.

Warranty & Support Information

ProCom offers a limited warranty for this heater, covering defects in materials and workmanship. However, the duration varies, so check the manual for details. They also provide online support and FAQs for troubleshooting. Unfortunately, connecting with a human representative can be tricky, as noted by other users.

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