
High-altitude locations can affect the performance of propane heaters, as the air pressure decreases with elevation. To ensure proper combustion and efficient operation of your propane heater at high altitudes, you may need to make some adjustments.
Here are general steps to adjust a propane heater for high altitude:
- Check the Manual: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and user manual that came with your propane heater. The manual often contains specific information on altitude adjustments and guidelines.
- Contact the Manufacturer: If the manual does not provide information on altitude adjustments or if you are uncertain about the proper procedure, contact the manufacturer directly. They can offer guidance tailored to your specific heater model.
- Adjust the Air-to-Fuel Ratio: At higher altitudes, the air is thinner, which can affect the combustion process. Some propane heaters have an air-to-fuel ratio adjustment that needs to be modified for optimal performance at high elevations. This adjustment is usually a screw or knob located on the burner or near the control valve.
- Install an Altitude Kit: Some propane heaters come with altitude kits or orifice kits designed for high-altitude use. These kits typically include different orifices that allow for the adjustment of the gas flow, compensating for lower air pressure. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install these kits properly.
- Consult a Professional: If you are unsure about making adjustments or if your propane heater does not have altitude-specific settings, it’s advisable to consult a professional technician. They can assess your specific heater model and make the necessary adjustments or recommend appropriate modifications.
- Monitor Combustion: After making any adjustments, monitor the combustion of the propane heater. Look for a steady and blue flame. If the flame is yellow or irregular, it may indicate incomplete combustion, and you may need to further adjust the air-to-fuel ratio.
- Test the Heater: Once adjustments are made, test the heater in a controlled environment to ensure it is operating efficiently and safely.
Remember that these are general guidelines, and specific instructions may vary based on the make and model of your propane heater. Always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid potential hazards or damage to the appliance.
Mr Heater High Altitude Kit
If you live in a high altitude area, you may need to purchase a Mr Heater High Altitude Kit. This kit allows your heater to function properly in areas where the elevation is 3,000 feet or more. The kit includes a new regulator and an orifice that must be installed by a qualified technician.

Credit: faroutride.com
Do Propane Heaters Work at High Altitude?
Propane heaters are a great way to stay warm at high altitudes. They work by drawing in air and then heating it up with a propane flame. This makes them very efficient at providing warmth even in thin air.
Additionally, propane heaters do not produce any fumes or smoke, making them safe to use indoors.
How Do You Derate a Gas Furnace for Higher Elevations?
If you live in an area with a high elevation, you may need to derate your gas furnace. This means that you will need to reduce the amount of heat that the furnace produces. The reason for this is because the air is thinner at high elevations and the furnace will not be able to produce as much heat.
To derate your furnace, you will need to find the rating plate on the furnace. This should be located near the controls or on the front of the unit. Once you find this plate, look for the section that says “deration.”
This will tell you how much you need to reduce the heat output by. For example, if it says to derate by 10%, then you would multiply the BTU rating by 0.9 (10% less).
If your furnace does not have a deration section on the rating plate, then you can use this formula: BTU rating x 1.085 ^ (-elevation in feet / 1000).
So, if your elevation is 6000 feet and your BTU rating is 60,000, then you would multiply 60,000 by 1.085^(-6), which equals 54,360 BTUs. This means that your furnace would need to be set at 54,360 BTUs in order to work properly at your elevation.
How Do You Adjust a Propane Water Heater at High Altitude?
If you live in an area with high altitude, you may need to adjust your propane water heater. At high altitudes, the air is thinner and there is less oxygen. This can cause the flame on your water heater to burn less hot, which means it will take longer to heat up your water.
To adjust your propane water heater at high altitude, you will need to turn up the gas control knob. This will increase the amount of gas that flows into the burner, which will make the flame hotter and help your water heater work more efficiently. You may also need to adjust the thermostat on your water heater so that it maintains a higher temperature.
If you have any questions about how to adjust a propane water heater at high altitude, or if you need help troubleshooting any other issues with your appliance, please contact a qualified technician or service professional for assistance.
What Must Be Done to a Gas Fired Residential Furnace When It’S Installed at Higher Altitudes?
If you’re installing a gas fired residential furnace at a higher altitude, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is the type of fuel your furnace uses. If you have a natural gas furnace, you’ll need to install an altitude conversion kit.
This kit will ensure that your furnace burns fuel correctly at high altitudes. If you have a propane furnace, however, no special kit is required.
Next, you’ll need to adjust the pressure regulator on your furnace.
The pressure regulator controls the amount of gas that flows into the burner chamber. At high altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is lower than it is at lower altitudes. This means that less gas will flow into the burner chamber unless the pressure regulator is adjusted accordingly.
Finally, you may need to make some adjustments to the size or shape of your flue pipe. The flue pipe carries exhaust gases away from the furnace and out of your home. At high altitudes, these gases can cool down too quickly and condense inside the flue pipe.
This can lead to problems with draft and potentially cause dangerous fumes to enter your home if not corrected. An experienced HVAC technician can help you determine if any adjustments need to be made to your flue pipe before installation.
Altitude And RVing, What You Need To Know
Conclusion
Adjusting a propane heater for high altitude is a crucial step to ensure optimal performance and safety in regions with lower air pressure. As discussed, the process involves careful consideration of the air-to-fuel ratio, the potential use of altitude kits, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines.
Given the variability in propane heater models and specifications, consulting the user manual and reaching out to the manufacturer or a professional technician is essential. By making the necessary adjustments and monitoring combustion, users can enjoy efficient heating in high-altitude environments while minimizing the risk of incomplete combustion or other safety concerns.
Always prioritize safety and follow recommended procedures to enhance the longevity and effectiveness of your propane heater at elevated elevations.