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Guide

Transform Your Mr Heater: A Comprehensive Guide To Natural Gas Conversion

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • Connect the other end of the gas line to the natural gas supply line.
  • If the flame is yellow or orange, adjust the air shutter to achieve a blue flame.
  • Heater to natural gas yourself, it is highly recommended to engage a qualified technician for this task to ensure safety and proper installation.

Considering the conversion of your Mr. Heater from propane to natural gas? Embark on this comprehensive journey as we delve into the intricacies of this transformation, ensuring a safe and efficient transition.

Assessing Compatibility:

Before embarking on the conversion process, it’s crucial to ascertain the compatibility of your Mr. Heater model with natural gas. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult an authorized technician to confirm compatibility.

Safety Precautions:

As you embark on this conversion endeavor, prioritize safety by adhering to the following precautions:

  • Ensure the gas supply is disconnected before initiating any work.
  • Carry out the conversion in a well-ventilated area to prevent gas buildup.
  • Utilize appropriate tools and equipment specifically designed for gas line installations.

Gathering Necessary Components:

To successfully convert your Mr. Heater to natural gas, gather the following components:

  • Natural gas conversion kit specific to your Mr. Heater model
  • Flexible gas line
  • Pipe sealant
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Conversion Guide:

1. Disconnecting the Propane Tank:

  • Safely detach the propane tank from the heater.
  • Securely cap the propane tank to prevent leakage.

2. Installing the Natural Gas Conversion Kit:

  • Carefully remove the existing propane orifice from the heater.
  • Install the natural gas orifice included in the conversion kit.
  • Reattach the orifice holder to the heater.

3. Connecting the Gas Line:

  • Attach one end of the flexible gas line to the heater’s gas inlet.
  • Connect the other end of the gas line to the natural gas supply line.
  • Secure the connections with pipe sealant to prevent gas leaks.

4. Testing for Leaks:

  • Apply a soap and water solution to the gas connections.
  • Observe for the formation of bubbles, indicating a gas leak.
  • If leaks are detected, tighten the connections until the bubbles disappear.

5. Adjusting the Air Mixture:

  • Locate the air shutter on the heater.
  • Adjust the air shutter to the appropriate setting for natural gas.
  • Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adjustments.

Igniting the Heater:

1. Purging the Gas Line:

  • Open the gas valve to allow gas to flow into the line.
  • Ignite the heater and allow it to run for a few minutes.
  • Observe the flame color; it should be blue, indicating proper combustion.

2. Adjusting the Flame:

  • If the flame is yellow or orange, adjust the air shutter to achieve a blue flame.
  • Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adjustments.

Routine Maintenance:

1. Regular Cleaning:

  • Keep the heater clean by removing dust and debris from the burner and pilot assembly.
  • Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow.

2. Annual Inspection:

  • Schedule an annual inspection by a qualified technician to ensure the heater is functioning safely and efficiently.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

1. No Ignition:

  • Check the gas supply and ensure it is turned on.
  • Inspect the pilot assembly for obstructions or damage.
  • Clean the igniter and ensure it is properly positioned.

2. Yellow or Orange Flame:

  • Adjust the air shutter to achieve a blue flame.
  • Check for air leaks in the gas line or heater.

3. Gas Odor:

  • Immediately turn off the gas supply and extinguish the heater.
  • Ventilate the area and contact a qualified technician to locate and repair the leak.

Wrapping Up – Embracing Natural Gas Efficiency:

By following these guidelines and precautions, you can successfully convert your Mr. Heater to natural gas, unlocking the benefits of cleaner burning fuel and increased energy efficiency. Remember, safety is paramount throughout this process. If you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties, consulting a qualified technician is always advisable.

Information You Need to Know

1. Is converting a Mr. Heater to natural gas a DIY project?

  • While it is possible to convert a Mr. Heater to natural gas yourself, it is highly recommended to engage a qualified technician for this task to ensure safety and proper installation.

2. Can all Mr. Heater models be converted to natural gas?

  • Not all Mr. Heater models are compatible with natural gas conversion. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult an authorized technician to determine compatibility.

3. What are the benefits of converting to natural gas?

  • Natural gas offers cleaner burning fuel, reduced emissions, and increased energy efficiency compared to propane.

Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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