A low cost 18,000 BTU cabinet heater for well ventilated garages, sheds and patios, with tip, low oxygen and flame out shutoffs. The maker requires good ventilation indoors.
Amazon $117.99
The default choice for heating a ventilated tent, blind or small cabin on 1 lb cylinders, with the option to hook up a bigger tank later. Keep the 9 sq in of fresh air the maker requires.
- 4,000 to 9,000 BTUHeat output
- Indoor (ventilated)Use
- CSASafety listing
- 3 yearsWarranty
Price checked October 30, 2026. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- Approved by the maker for ventilated tents, cabins, trailers and truck caps
- Shuts itself off if it tips or if oxygen in the space runs low
- Low and high settings let you trade heat for run time
- Can run from a 20 lb tank with a hose and filter bought separately
- Rated for about 225 sq ft, too little for a large garage
- The 20 lb tank hose and filter cost extra
- No thermostat, so you adjust it by hand
The Mr. Heater Buddy family
Every Mr. Heater Buddy model we rank, smallest first. Ratings compare each against its own type.
| Model | Heat output | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Little Buddy MH4B | 3,800 BTU | 3.6/5 | $69.99 |
| Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX (this one) | 4,000 to 9,000 BTU | 4.5/5 | $89.97 |
| Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy MH12HB | 6,000 to 12,000 BTU | 3.9/5 | $126.48 |
| Mr. Heater Big Buddy MH18B | 4,000 to 18,000 BTU | 3.9/5 | $240.26 |
How it scores
The rating comes from 6 measured or published factors, each scored 0-100 against fixed reference points for its type. How we rank explains each one.
Specifications
| Model number | MH9BX (F232000) |
|---|---|
| Heating | |
| Heat output | 4,000 to 9,000 BTU |
| Type | Portable |
| Use | Indoor (ventilated) |
| Heats up to | 225 sq ft |
| Thermostat | No |
| Fan | No |
| Fuel and power | |
| Fuel | 1 lb cylinder or bulk tank |
| Hose included | No |
| Ignition | Push-button piezo |
| Power needed | None |
| Safety | |
| Safety listing | CSA |
| Low-oxygen shutoff | Yes |
| Tip-over shutoff | Yes |
| Flame-out shutoff | Yes |
| Build | |
| Dimensions | 14.25 x 9 x 15 in |
| Weight | 10.6 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Released | 2009-06-01 |
Alternatives in this type
For ventilated garages, offices and workshops that need a rolling 18,000 BTU heater with a full set of shutoffs. The manual rules out homes and living quarters.
Amazon $152.99For heating the middle of a ventilated tent, blind or shelter from all sides. Keep the 18 sq in of fresh air the manual requires.
Amazon $129.99Compare
Compare the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX with any other propane heater →
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