DeWalt Radiant Propane Heater

When I first set my sights on the DeWalt Radiant Propane Heater (model DXH45LP), I was immediately drawn to its rugged build and the promise of substantial heat output. DeWalt is a name that typically inspires confidence, and this heater looked like it could handle the chill in my outdoor spaces and unheated garage. Here's my experience with this propane heater, from setup to long-term use.

First Impressions and Setup

Out of the box, the DeWalt Radiant Propane Heater felt solid and well-constructed. The 10" flat-free tires and the 1" diameter heavy-duty tubular steel frame definitely gave it a robust feel. Assembly was straightforward and quick, taking me about five minutes to get everything set up and ready to go. The instructions were clear, although I did have to consult a YouTube video to make sure I was starting it up correctly.

Using the Heater

Once assembled, I connected the heater to a 20lb propane tank. The heater is designed for outdoor use, but I primarily used it in my garage and occasionally on my deck. Lighting the heater was a bit of a mixed bag. The built-in igniter often took longer than expected to get the heater going, and sometimes I found myself having to light it manually, which was not the most convenient or safest experience. Holding the primer button while positioning my face close to the flame surface was a bit unnerving.

However, once lit, the heater delivered on its promise of substantial heat output. With a rating of 45,000 BTU per hour, it quickly warmed up my 2.5-car garage from a chilly 25°F to a comfortable 70°F in about 30 minutes. The radiant heat was effective, but it was clear that the lack of a fan meant the heater needed to run longer to distribute the warmth evenly.

Performance and Portability

The heater's portability is a significant plus. The flat-free tires and folding handles made it easy to move around, whether I was shifting it across the garage or taking it out to the deck. It's relatively lightweight for its size, which adds to its ease of use.

One of the standout features is its quiet operation. Compared to other heaters I've used, the DeWalt Radiant Propane Heater is impressively silent. This made it ideal for situations where I needed to maintain a quieter environment, like working in the garage or hosting an outdoor gathering.

Drawbacks and Issues

Despite its strengths, the heater has some notable drawbacks. The most significant issue I encountered was the reliability of the ignition system. Over time, the igniter became less effective, and I often found myself having to light the heater manually. This was not only inconvenient but also posed a safety risk.

Another problem was the heater's tendency to go out unexpectedly. On several occasions, the heater would stop working after only a few minutes of operation, requiring me to relight it multiple times. This inconsistency was frustrating, especially during colder days when reliable heat was crucial.

The heater also lacks variable temperature control. It operates at a single high output, which means it can sometimes make the space uncomfortably warm if left running for too long. An adjustable heat output would have been a valuable feature, allowing for more precise control over the temperature.

Maintenance and Longevity

Maintaining the heater is relatively straightforward. Regularly checking for dust and debris and ensuring the gas line is free from leaks are essential steps to keep it running smoothly. However, the long-term reliability of the heater is questionable. After a couple of years of use, I noticed a decline in performance, with the heater becoming less reliable and more prone to issues like unexpected shutdowns and difficulty staying lit.

Safety Considerations

Safety is always a top priority when dealing with propane heaters. The DeWalt Radiant Propane Heater comes with a factory-installed thermo-electric safety valve, which is a plus. However, the placement of the thermocouple required some adjustments to ensure it was positioned correctly relative to the flame. This might not be a significant issue for those with some technical know-how, but it could be a challenge for others.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt Radiant Propane Heater has a lot going for it. Its robust build, substantial heat output, and quiet operation make it a strong contender for those in need of a portable outdoor heater. However, its reliability issues, lack of variable temperature control, and the occasional safety concerns with manual lighting detract from its overall appeal.

Would I recommend this heater? If you need a powerful, portable heater for occasional use and are comfortable with some of its quirks, it could be a good fit. However, for those looking for a more reliable, long-term solution, there might be better options available. The DeWalt Radiant Propane Heater delivers on heat but falls short on consistency and ease of use, making it a mixed bag overall.