Advice on installing propane heater

[jdarling]

I just purchased a 1985 Catalina 27 and want to install a bulkhead propane heater. Two questions, any advice on routing the exhaust, does not appear to be sufficient room on deck, thinking about going through the head....and has anyone ever used a simple 1 pound portable (camping) can of propane to fuel the heater and avoid the cost of installing a larger propane tank? Thanks

 

[caguy]

Have you considered a portable catalytic heater. When in college I lived in my van for a few years and used a Coleman catalytic heater that worked pretty well. They produce very little carbon monoxide and require a small vent opening (slightly open hatch or port) to replace O2 consumed.That was 42 years ago, I;m sure they gotten even better since.

 

[samaeri]

I just purchased a 1985 Catalina 27 and want to install a bulkhead propane heater. Two questions, any advice on routing the exhaust, does not appear to be sufficient room on deck, thinking about going through the head....and has anyone ever used a simple 1 pound portable (camping) can of propane to fuel the heater and avoid the cost of installing a larger propane tank? Thanks

A 1 lb bottle you will be replacing constantly. You'll need a larger refillable tank, basically the whole system to be safe. or do it on steps and be very contentious of leaking gas. You may need to move some rigging aside for your vent.

 

[shipwreck66]

If you check out my pics, I installed a gas fireplace on my wall that runs on 1lb. bottles. Northern Tool sells it for around $100, it just hangs like a picture, puts out good heat, lasts about 2-4 hours dependiing on how you adjust flame. We've also used the Little Buddy Heater, it's ceramic and last several hours and will really heat up the cabin.