Craftsman 80,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Construction Portable Heater

Choosing the right heater for a large, cold workspace can be quite a challenge, but the Craftsman 80,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Construction Portable Heater (model CMXEHAO80FAK) has proven to be a strong contender. As someone who's had the opportunity to use this heater extensively over the past few weeks, I can confidently share my experience with its performance, build, and features.

Heating Performance

Let's start with the most important aspect: heating. This Craftsman heater boasts an impressive 80,000 BTU/hr capacity, which translates to rapid and efficient heating for spaces up to 2,000 square feet. In my case, it quickly brought my two-car garage from a frigid 40 degrees to a comfortable 70 degrees in less than 20 minutes. This kind of performance is invaluable when you need to work in cold conditions and can't afford to wait hours for a space to warm up.

One of the standout features is the factory-installed thermostat. It allows for precise temperature control, shutting the unit off when the desired temperature is reached and turning it back on when the temperature drops. This not only maintains a consistent environment but also conserves fuel, which is a big plus.

Fuel Options and Efficiency

The heater's flexibility in fuel options is another major advantage. It runs on kerosene, diesel, and JP-8 without requiring any conversion. I've primarily used kerosene, which burns cleanly and effectively without producing unpleasant indoor fumes. The 6-gallon fuel tank provides a good runtime, lasting over 8 hours on a full tank. This is particularly useful for long workdays where constant heat is required.

However, the placement of the fuel fill under the main heater tube can be tricky. Filling the tank without spilling requires a steady hand and patience. Additionally, the fuel cap’s seal could be better, as it tends to leak slightly when transporting the heater, which is something to be mindful of.

Build Quality and Maintenance

Craftsman’s reputation for durable tools is upheld with this heater. It features robust steel construction that feels solid and ready to withstand the rigors of a construction site or workshop. The split upper shell design is a thoughtful touch, making maintenance tasks like cleaning or replacing parts much easier.

A high-temperature safety shut-off switch and a photo cad cell flame sensor are crucial safety features that provide peace of mind. These mechanisms ensure the heater operates safely and shuts down if any unsafe conditions are detected.

Noise Level

One area where this heater could improve is noise level. It’s loud—comparable to a jet engine at times. While this might be acceptable in a large, noisy workshop, it can be quite disruptive in quieter settings. The noise comes from both the fan and the fuel pump, and while it’s a trade-off for the powerful heating, it’s something to consider if you’re sensitive to loud environments.

Usability

The heater is designed with glove-friendly controls, which is a small but significant feature, especially when working in cold conditions where removing gloves isn't practical. The controls are straightforward and easy to use, making the heater accessible even for those who aren't particularly tech-savvy.

One ergonomic issue is the placement of the fuel gauge. It’s positioned in such a way that you often need to get down on your knees with a flashlight to read it. This could definitely be improved for better user convenience.

Real-World Applications

I’ve used this heater in various situations, from thawing frozen pipes under an old farmhouse to maintaining a warm environment in a large service department. In every scenario, it performed admirably. The heater's ability to quickly and effectively warm up large spaces has made it an indispensable tool during the colder months.

Conclusion

Would I recommend the Craftsman 80,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Construction Portable Heater? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you need a powerful, reliable heater for a large space, this model delivers exceptional performance and fuel efficiency. The flexibility in fuel options and the robust build add to its appeal.

However, if noise is a significant concern for you or if you require a heater that’s more user-friendly in terms of fuel filling and gauge reading, you might want to consider these factors before making a purchase. The noise can be overwhelming, and the fuel filling process could be more convenient.

In summary, for its price point and heating capabilities, this Craftsman heater is a robust option that excels in performance and reliability. Just be prepared for the noise and take care when handling fuel. If you can manage these aspects, you’ll find this heater to be a valuable asset in tackling cold work environments.