OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
This is a propane, direct-fired, forced air heater. It's intended use is primarily temporary heating of buildings under construction, alteration or repair.
Propane is heavier than air. If propane leaks from a connection or fitting, it sinks to the floor, collecting there with the surrounding air, forming a potentially explosive mixture. Obviously, propane leaks should be avoided, so set up the propane supply with utmost care. Read enclosed Odor Fade and Propane Sheet for additional information about detecting propane leaks. Leak check new connections or reconnections with a soap and water solution and follow all connection instructions herein. Also, ask your propane dealer for advice on the propane application and supply installation and ask him to check it if there are any questions.
This heater was designed and certified for use as a construction heater in accordance with ANSI Standard Z83.7/CGA 2.14-2000. Check with your local fire safety authority if you have any questions about your applications. Other standards govern the use of fuel gases and heat producing products in specific applications. Your local authority can advise you about these.
Direct-Fired means that all of the combustion products enter the heated space. Even though this heater operates very close to 100 percent combustion efficiency, it still produces small amounts of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (called CO) is toxic. We can tolerate small amounts but not a lot. CO can build up in a heated space and failure to provide adequate ventilation could result in death.
The symptoms of inadequate ventilation are:
•headache
•dizziness
•burning eyes and nose
•nausea
•dry mouth or sore throat
So, be sure to follow advice about ventilation in these operating instructions.
Forced Air means that a blower or fan pushes the air through the heater. Proper combustion depends upon this air flow; therefore, the heater must not be revised, modified or operated with parts removed or missing. Likewise, safety systems must not be circumvented or modified in order to operate the heater.
When the heater is to be operated in the presence of other people the user is responsible for properly acquainting those present with the safety precautions and instructions, and of the hazards involved.
Figure 1
VENTILATION: Minimum openings required
| Opening | Opening |
Heater | near floor | near ceiling |
Forced air (MH170 FAVT) | 3 ft2 | 3 ft2 |
| | |
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.Check the heater thoroughly for damage. DO NOT operate a damaged heater.
2.DO NOT modify the heater or operate a heater which has been modified from its original condition.
3.Use only propane gas.
4.Use only VAPOR WITHDRAWAL propane supply. If there is any question about vapor withdrawal, ask your propane dealer.
5.Mount the propane cylinders vertically (shutoff valve up). Secure them from falling or being knocked over and protect them from damage.
6.Locate propane containers at least (USA) 7 ft. (2.13m), (Canada) 10 ft. (3m) from the heater and do not direct exhaust toward containers.
7.IMPORTANT Use only the hose and regulator assembly provided with the heater. Match the color stripe on the hangtag attached to the hose assembly with the color on the label located near the propane inlet fitting on the heater. Inspect hose assembly before each use of the heater. If there is excessive abrasion or wear, or hose is cut, replace with hose assembly listed on parts list before using heater.
8.For indoor use only. Area must be well ventilated. Figure 1. (also see "Operating Precautions").
9.If at any time gas odor is detected, IMMEDIATELY DISCONTINUE operation until the source of gas has been located and corrected. Read enclosed Odor fade and Propane Sheet for additional information about detecting propane leaks.
10.Install the heater such that it is not directly exposed to water spray, rain and/or dripping water.
11.Maintain minimum clearance from normal combustible material (like paper). Figure 2.
12.Due to the high surface and exhaust temperatures, adults and children must observe clearances to avoid burns or clothing ignition.
13.Operate only on a stable, level surface.
14.Do not use with duct work. Do not restrict inlet or exit.
15.Use only the electrical power specified. The electrical connection and grounding must comply with National Electrical Code - ANSI/NFPA 70 (USA) and CSA C22.1 Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1 (Canada).
16.Use only a properly grounded 3-prong receptacle or extension cord.
17.Do not move, handle or service while hot or burning.
18.Use only in accordance with local codes or, in the absence of local codes, with the Standard for the Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases ANSI/NFPA 58 and CSA B149.1, Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code.
Figure 2
MINIMUM CLEARANCE: From normal combustible material
Clearance | Forced Air MH170FAVT |
| |
From floor | 0 ft |
From outlet | 6 ft |
From sides | 2 ft |
From top | 3 ft |
Locate 10 ft. from canvas or plastic tarpaulins or similar coverings and secure them to prevent flapping or movement due to wind action.
