staying warm without idling.

Properly vented, propane will burn almost 100% clean. Think about the forklifts running propane.

 

That's essentially what you should get with a clean burn, carbon dioxide, water vapor and nitrogen

Now an unclean burn will result in carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, which will happen as the oxygen level is depleted. Hence why cracking a window is a good idea.

 

Are Propane Heaters Safe?

Yes they are safe, as long as you follow the proper directions. The danger of propane comes not from the gas itself, but rather from its organic byproduct of combustion - carbon monoxide. Propane has a strong odor, allowing you to quickly discover a leak with a simple sniff. Carbon monoxide (CO), however, is tasteless and odorless. This gas will compete with oxygen binding sites on the hemoglobin molecule, making it a safety hazard.

In other words, during - and only during - carbon monoxide poisoning CO replaces the O (oxygen) in human blood. Oxygen declines, but carbon monoxide increase in the body until the victim is rendered unconscious.

This all sounds very frightening, but the actual risk is slight and injuries are uncommon from carbon monoxide poisoning. Since the early 1990's, there have only been about 80 cases of serious carbon monoxide poisoning due to propane heater misuse. As noted above, it all depends on heating the smart way. So, how do you safely use a propane heater?

http://www.air-n-water.com/propane-heater-safety.htm

 

As safe as claims are made today, take nothing for granted. $20 C0 detector can save your life. Mount it in sleeper at pillow hight. Your neighbor in truck stop can be using gasoline APU causing carbon monoxide buildup in your sleeper, as far as 100 feet away. Propane catalytic heaters are great but be responsible and protect yourself.

 

Hmmm that explains the headaches when i park next to older apus ... didnt think of that thanks

 

If the supplied air to the heater comes from the outside and then the exhaust goes out the truck there is no problem.

A CO detector is a must like sirscof said. And yes the trucks beside you can kill you with their exhaust. It happens in campgrounds at NASCAR races. Rare but you are the one that is dead.

 

You do realize that a 20lb propane tank rattling around your sleeper is like carrying a bomb around with you do you not? Let's say you end up in a crash and your truck catches on fire. That's pretty common these days. You do what any sane person would do and get away from the truck, but wait, you have a 20lb propane bomb in your sleeper! The flames have engulfed the cab so there is no way to get it out...BOOM!!!

 

They don't put the tank in the cab Freddy. These heaters are professionally installed and CE listed auxiliary heaters.

 

I think the question posted on this thread has been answered. Moderator, please close thread.

Energy Density of Diesel 130,000 BTU per Gallon
Energy Density of Propane 84,000 BTU per Gallon

Which is the bigger bomb?

 

Call me paranoid, but my espar is set at the lowest level, or a preheat before bed then off till the morning.

Can't beat a good blanket wrap up.

If it can heat you, it can harm you.