Mr. Heater MH18B BIG BUDDY RADIANT HEATER
GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
THIS IS A HEATING APPLIANCE. DO NOT OPERATE THIS APPLIANCE WITHOUT THE FRONT WIRE GUARD INSTALLED. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WARM OR COOK FOOD ON THIS HEATER.
- Do not use non-approved attachments on this heater.
- Due to high temperatures, the appliance should be located out of traffic and away from combustible materials.
- Children and adults should be alerted to the hazard of high surface temperatures and should stay away to avoid burns or clothing ignition.
- Young children should be carefully supervised when they are near the appliance.
- Do not place clothing or other flammable material on or near the appliance.
- Do not operate the heater in any moving vehicle.
- This heater requires a vent area of 18 square inches (for example 4 1/4 1/4 ventilation during operation. Do not use other fuel burn-ing appliances inside.
- WARNING: ANY HOSE CONNECTION TO A QUICK DIS-
- DURING OPERATION.
- Any safety screen or guard removed for servicing the appliance must be replaced prior to operating the heater.
- DO NOT use this heater if any part has been underwater. Immediately call a qualified service technician to inspect the heater and to replace any part of the control system and any gas control, which has been under water.
- When used without adequate combustion and ventilation air, this heater may give off excessive CARBON
- Some people – pregnant women, persons with heart or lung disease, anemia, those under the influence of alcohol, and those at high altitudes – are more affected by carbon monoxide than others..
- When the heater is placed on the ground, make sure the ground is level and keep any objects at least 24 inches from the front of the heater. THIS HEATER 1S
EQUIPPED WITH A TIP-OVER SWITCH THAT WILL SHUT THE HEATER OFF IF THE HEATER TIPS OVER.HOWEVER, DO NOT LEAVE THE HEATER UNATTENDED OR WHERE CHILDREN MAY CAUSE THE HEATER TO TIP OVER. NEVER OPERATE THE HEATER WHILE SLEEPING!
WARNING:
- Every time hose or tank is connected to unit, the connection must be checked for leaks in one or more ways: Apply soapy water to the connection, look for bubbles, listen for hiss of escaping gas, feel for extreme cold, smell for rot-ten egg odor. Do not use if leaking!
- Any changes to this heater or its controls can be dangerous.
- Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning resemble the flu, with headache, dizziness and/or nausea. If you have these signs, the heater may not be working properly. Get fresh air at once! Have heater serviced?
- DO NOT USE THIS HEATER INSIDE!
GENERAL INFORMATION:
- When the heater is cold or at room temperature, it will take a few minutes for the burner(s) tile to turn bright orange. This is normal and the heater is working prop-erly. If the burner(s) tile is visibly flaming, turn the heater off and call a qualified service technician.
- When the unit is lit, there should be about a quarter-inch border around the tile that will not turn bright orange. This is normal.
- When operating the heater at altitudes over 7,000 FT. above sea level, the unit may not burn as bright as in lower altitudes. This is normal. At higher altitudes, the heater may shut off. If this happens, provide fresh air, wait 5 minutes and re-light. Due to local atmospheric conditions heater may not re-light.
- Operating time will vary depending on the heater setting and the supply cylinder size. (One 1 lb. cylinder: 1.5 to 6 hours. Two 1 lb. cylinders: 3 to 12 hours. Two 20 lb. cylinders: 50 to 220 hours.) The heater may be operated from quick disconnect, one or both tank swivel inlets. cantly reduced when operating continuously at tempera-
these conditions. - When moving heater when lit or bumping heater setting it down, tip over switch may shut off heater. If this hap-pens, re-light.
NOTE: THIS HEATER MAY BE OPERATED WITH (1) OR (2) DISPOSABLE 1 LB. PROPANE CYLINDERS OR WITH A REMOTE REFILLABLE CYLINDER(S) MAX. 20 LBS USING (1) OR (2) F273701, F273702 OR F272702 HOSE ASSEMBLIES WITH FUEL FILTERS (F273699)(Fig. A) ON EACH HOSE ASSEMBLY. HOSE NO. F273704 BUDDY SERIES HOSE, FUEL FILTER NOT REQUIRED. IT MAY ALSO BE OPERATED WITH (1) F271802 HOSE ASSEMBLY
SOURCE *FILTER NOT REQUIRED* OR (1) F271803 HOSE
*FILTER NOT REQUIRED*.
LIGHTING / OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE WITH DISPOSABLE 1 LB. PROPANE CYLINDERS:
WARNING: Always inspect the propane cylinder and heater propane connections for damage, dirt, and debris before attaching the propane cylinder. Do not use if the head of the cylinder is damaged, punctured or deteriorated.
ALWAYS ATTACH OR DETACH THE CYLINDER OUTDOORS AWAY FROM FLAMES, AND OTHER IGNITION SOURCES, AND ONLY WHEN HEATER ISs coOL TO TOUCH. NEVER SMOKE WHEN ATTACHING OR REMOVING THE PROPANE CYLINDER OR MAKING REMOTE CONNECTIONS!
connections for damage, dirt, and debris before attaching the propane cylinder. Do not use if head of the cylinder is damaged, punctured or deteriorated.
- Use only LP-gas cylinders marked in accordance with the
- U.s. Dept. of Transportation (DOT).
- Use only 16.4 0z. (1 Ib.) disposable cylinders that mate with No. 600 valve connection.
- wise (from bottom) into portable heater until hand-tight. DO NOT use thread sealant on this connection.
- Check cylinder(s) connection for leaks with soapy water at the threaded connection under the domed plastic cover where the cylinder screws into the tank swivel. SEE WARNING!
- Depress the Control Knob and turn counterclockwise to the pilot position.

- Hold Control Knob down in the pilot position for 30-40 seconds.
- While holding down the Control Knob, rotate the clockwise pilot position, a spark will be generated at the pilot assembly and the heater should light.
- If the heater does not light on the first attempt, repeat the procedure.
- Once the pilot has lit, hold the Control Knob down for an additional 30 seconds to heat the thermocouple. After 30 seconds, release the Control Knob and the pilot should remain lit.
- If the pilot goes out repeat the lighting procedure.
- After lighting pilot, release Control Knob. Control Knob should return to fully extended position. To operate heater slightly depress knob and gently turn to lock in desired position.
- After first burner tile has turned bright orange, adjust heat output by turning Control Knob to desired position 2) 1 LB. propane
bottles are needed to use a heater in (HI) position. - Installation of 4 D-cell batteries is required for fan operation. The battery box is located on the lower back panel of the battery installation. See figure 2.
- To shut off the heater, slightly push down and turn the Control
CAUTION: After turning the heater off, wire guard will remain hot. Allow to thoroughly cool before storing.
Do not operate, store or remove cylinder(s) near flammable items or ignition sources.
HEATER WHEN NOT IN USE!
LIGHTING / OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE WITH DISPOSABLE 1 LB. PROPANE CYLINDERS:
WARNING: Always inspect propane cylinder and heater propane
- WARNING: ANY HOSE CONNECTION TO A QUICK connection for damage, dirt, and debris before attaching the propane cylinder. Do not use if the head of a cylinder is damaged, punctured or deteriorated. ALWAYS ATTACH OR DETACH THE CYLINDER OUTDOORS AWAY
FROM FLAMES, AND OTHER IGNITION SOURCES, AND ONLY WHEN THE HEATER IS COOL TO THE TOUCH. Never SMOKE WHEN ATTACHING OR REMOVING a PROPANE CYLINDER OR MAKING REMOTE CONNECTIONS! - Use only LP-gas cylinders marked in accordance with the U.S. Dept. of Transportation (DOT). U.S. Dept. of Transportation (DOT).
- Use only 16.4 oz. (1 lb.) disposable cylinders that mate with No. 600 valve connection.
- The heater and attached cylinder(s) must be in an upright position during operation.
- Check cylinder(s) connection for leaks with soapy water at the threaded connection under the domed plastic cover where the cylinder screws into the tank swivel. SEE WARNING!
- Depress the Control Knob and turn counterclockwise to the pilot position.

- Hold Control Knob down in the pilot position for 30-40 seconds.
- While holding down the Control Knob, rotate the clockwise pilot position, a spark will be generated at the pilot assembly and the heater should light.
- If the heater does not light on the first attempt, repeat the procedure.
- Once the pilot has lit, hold the Control Knob down for an additional 30 seconds to heat the thermocouple. After 30 seconds, release the Control Knob and the pilot should remain lit.
- If the pilot goes out repeat the lighting procedure.
- After lighting pilot, release Control Knob. Control Knob should return to fully extended position. To operate the heater slightly depress knob and gently turn to lock in the desired position.
- After the first burner tile has turned bright orange, adjust heat output by turning Control Knob to the desired position 2) 1 LB. propane bottles are needed to use the heater in (HI) position.
- Installation of 4 D-cell batteries is required for fan operation. The battery box is located on the lower back panel of the battery installation. See figure 2.
- The heater fan can also be powered by an electrical adapter
- To shut off the heater, slightly push down and turn the Control
- CAUTION: After turning heater off, wire guard will remain hot. Allow to thoroughly cool before storing.
- Do not operate, store or remove cylinder(s) near flammable items or ignition sources.
HEATER WHEN NOT IN USE!
LIGHTING / OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE WITH HOSE(S) CONNECTED TO A REMOTE CYLINDER, MAXIMUM SIZE 20 LBS:
- WARNING: ANY HOSE CONNECTION TO A QUICK THE DISCONNECT FITTING ON THE HEATER MUST BE REGULATED TO 11″ W.C. PRESSURE
- Mr. Heater Hose No. F271802 which includes a quick disconnect fitting and a 3/8″ female flare fitting connected to a regulated (11 W.C.) propane source.
- Mr. Heater Hose No. F271803 which includes a quick disconnect fitting and an 11″ W.C. regulator.
- DANGER! NEVER bring a refillable propane cylinder indoors. A fire or explosion can occur causing property damage, serious injury or death!
- Inspect the hose before each use of the heater. If there is excessive abrasion or wear, or the hose is cut, replace the prior to using the heater with one of the Mr. Heater Hose No’s. shown above.
- The propane cylinder must include a listed overfilling protection device as well as a collar to protect the cylinder valve.
- The heater must be in an upright position during operation.
- Make sure the five-position control knob is in the “OFF” position; see Figure 1, at left.
- Mr. Heater strongly recommends using disposable fuel filter F273699, which connects to tank swivel on the heater to trap any oil substances when connected to a remote cylinder that can make the heater inoperable
- Screw the hose connector into the tank swivel or fuel filter on the heater or connect to a quick disconnect and screw the connector on another end of hose into the LP-gas supply cylinder valve. Tighten all hose connections. DO NOT use thread sealant on any of these connections.
- The open valve at the LP-gas supply cylinder.
- Check all hose connections for leaks with soapy water at the threaded connection under the domed plastic cover where the hose connector screws into the tank swivel and/or fuel filter and at the LP gas supply cylinder. SEE
WARNING - Depress the control knob and turn it counter-clockwise to the pilot position.

- pilot position, a spark will be generated at the pilot assembly and the heater should light. the procedure.
- Once the pilot has lit, hold the control knob down for an additional 30 seconds to heat the thermocouple.
- After 30 seconds, release the control knob and the pilot should remain lit.
- After lighting pilot, release the knob. The knob should return to the fully extended position.
- To operate heater slightly depress the knob and gently turn to lock in the desired position
- After first burner tile has turned bright orange, adjust heat output by turning Control Knob to the desired position (2) 1 LB. propane bottles are needed to use heater in (HI) position.
Caution: Do not try to adjust heating levels by using the propane tank shut-off valve,
Warning:
ADO NOT OPERATE THE HEATER UNLESS THE CONTROL KNOB IS LOCKED IN A POSITION MARKED “HI”, “MD”, “LO”or “PILOT”. NEVER SET THE CONTROL KNOB BETWEEN LOCKED POSITIONS. POOR COMBUSTION AND HIGHER LEVELS OF CARBON MONOXIDE MAY RESULT. - Installation of 4 D-cell batteries is required for fan operation. The battery box is located on the lower back panel of
the battery installation. See figure 2. - Heater fan can also be powered by the electrical adapter, –
lamp current with positive tip polarity. See figure 2. - To shut off the heater, shut off propane at the supply tank, an al-low heater to use-up propane in the supply line until the heater shuts off, then slightly push down and turn the Control
CAUTION: After turning the heater off, the wire guard will remain hot. Allow to thoroughly cool before storing. - When not in use, the gas must be turned off at to use up propane in the supply line until the heater shuts off.
from the heater, the heater and the cylinder must be stored outdoors, in a well-ventilated space, out of reach of children, and must not be stored in a building, garage or any other enclosed area. - Indoor storage of the heater is permissible only if the cylinder is disconnected and removed from the heater. Cylinders must be stored outdoors out of the reach of children and must not be stored in a building, garage or any other enclosed area.
MAINTENANCE:
Always keep the heater area clear and free from combustible materials, gasoline and other flammable vapors and liquids. Keep the vent areas (slots in the bottom and the top at the front of heater) clear at all times.
Visually inspect the pilot flame and burner periodically during use. The pilot flame should be blue in color (not yellow) and will extend beyond the thermocouple. The flame will surround the flame may occur where the pilot flame and main burner flame meet. The burner(s) should be bright orange (with a slight blue color around the border, a red-orange haze that is visible on the ceramic tile is acceptable) and without a noticeable flame. A blue flame that rolls out at the top of the ceramic tile indicates an accumulation of dust, lint or spider webs inside the casing assembly and main burner assembly. If the pilot is yellow or the burner has a noticeable flame, cleaning may be required. Use the following procedure to inspect the casing assembly and main burner assembly.
It is necessary to periodically check the burner(s) orifice and burner venturi tube to make sure they are clear of insects/nests or spider webs that may accumulate over time. A clogged tube can lead to a fire.
- Allow the heater to thoroughly cool before performing any maintenance.
- Remove the disposable 1 lb. cylinder(s) from the heater or turn hose from the heater.
- Remove wire guard from the front of the heater by gently bend- ing to remove from holes in the front cover. slightly to release (2) plastic hooks on top of back cover. 5 Remove back cover.
- Remove (3) screws attaching the lower baffle to expose burner air openings.
- Inspect the interior of the casing assembly for accumulation of dust, lint or spider webs. If necessary, clean the interior of the casing assembly with a vacuum cleaner or apply air pressure (max. 30 psi). Do not damage any components within the casing assembly when you are cleaning.
- Inspect and clean main burner orifice located at the bottom of the burner venturi tube, by using a vacuum or apply air pressure at the orifice opening.
- Inspect and clean pilot (mounted to the bracket) by using a vacuum or apply air pressure through the holes in the
WARNING: Never use needles, wires, or similar cylindrical objects to clean the pilot to avoid damaging the calibrated ruby that controls the gas flow. - Apply air pressure (max. 30 psi) into the ceramic tile of the burner(s) assembly and the venturi tube (with [2] air openings) to remove dust, lint or spider webs.
- Reinstall the lower baffle with (3) screws
- Slide back cover over (2) plastic hooks on top of the heater. Make sure rear cover aligns with plastic side covers. Install (4) screws to hold in place.
TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION:
If the Spark electrode does not produce a spark.
- CHECK
- The spark electrode is broken – replace.
- Igniter wire may not be attached to spark electrode -attach.
- Igniter wire damaged – replace.
Piezo igniter on control valve defective – replace control valve.
If Spark electrode produces a spark but the pilot does not light.
- CHECK
- No gas to heater – install disposable cylinder or connect hose and fuel filter then turn on valve at the remote cylinder.
- “PILOT” position not properly aligned – turn gas= control knob to the “PILOT” position and depress
- The pilot is blocked from spider web or dirt – clean pilot, see MAINTENANCE.
If the Pilot flame does not stay lit when knob is released.
- CHECK
- Control knob in the “PILOT” position not completely Control knob in “PILOT” position not completely depressed or held in long enough to purge air from lines.
- Pilot flame not surrounding thermocouple – clean pilot, see MAINTENANCE.
- Pilot Assembly defective – replace.
- Tip switch wires disconnected – connect.
If the Main burner(s) does not ignite.
- CHECK
- The main burner(s) orifice is blocked – clean burner(s), see MAINTENANCE.
If Heater keeps shutting “OFF” during normal operation.
- The main burner(s) orifice is blocked – clean burner(s), see MAINTENANCE.
- CHECK
- The pilot is blocked – clean pilot, see MAINTENANCE.
- Provide minimum fresh air opening of 18 square inches (example 4 1/4″ x 4 1/4″ opening
- Tip over switch activated from bumping heater. Relight
PARTS LIST:
SEE BACK PAGE FOR PARTS ORDERING INFORMATION
- …………….78402 …………….HANDLE, ASSEMBLY
- ……………78403 …………….FAN, SWITCH
- …………….78442 …………….BACK, FAN, COVER
- …………….78404 …………….BACK PANEL ASSEMBLY
(Includes parts 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8) - ……………78405 …………….FAN, BLOWER, WHEEL
- ……………78407 …………….FAN, INTAKE, COVER
- …………….78408 …………….DOOR, BATTERY, COVER
- ……………78409 …………….BATTERY, TERMINALS
- …………….78410 …………….DOOR LEFT SIDE COVER
- …………..78411 …………….LEFT, SIDE, COVER
- …………..78412 …………….(2) REGULATORS, MH18B
- …………..78413 …………….TIE, WRAPS
- ………….78414 …………….BRACKET, LEFT, SIDE, REG,
- …………..78415 …………….LEFT, SIDE, GAS, SUPPLY, LINE
- ………….78518 …………….FRAME, ASSEMBLY
- …………..78417 …………….BRACKET, RIGHT, SIDE, REG,
- …………..78418 …………….KNOB, CONTROL
- ………….78419 …………….DOOR, RIGHT, SIDE, COVER
- …………..78420 …………….RIGHT, SIDE, COVER
- …………..78421 …………….VALVE, CONTROL, ASSEMBLY
- ………….78422 …………….PILOT, ASSEMBLY
- …………..78423 …………….SHIELD, HEAT, BACK
- …………..78424 …………….SHIELD, HEAT, FRONT
- …………..78516 …………….COVER, FRONT
- …………..78519 …………….GUARD, WIRE, FACE
- …………..78427 …………….BRACKET, BOTTOM, PLENUM, ASSEMBLY
- …………..78428 …………….PILOT, BRACKET
- ………….78515 …………….REFLECTOR
- ………….78526 …………….TILE
- …………..78525 …………….TILE, GASKET (NOT SHOWN)
- …………..78517 …………….PLENUM, BODY (2 REQUIRED)
- ………….78432 …………….BRACKET, TOP, PLENUM, ASSEMBLY
- ………….. 78527 …………….BURNER ORIFI

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING:
USE ONLY THE MANUFACTURER’S REPLACEMENT PARTS. USE OF ANY OTHER PARTS COULD CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH.
REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE DIRECT FROM THE FACTORY AND MUST BE INSTALLED BY A QUALIFIED
SERVICE AGENCY. MR. HEATER HOSES F273701, F273702 AND F272702 ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR USE WITH
THIS HEATER ALONG WITH F273699 DISPOSABLE FUEL FILTER (REPLACE ANNUALLY). USE OF OTHER HOSES MAY
CAUSE THE HEATER TO BECOME INOPERABLE. USE BUDDY SERIES HOSE NO. F273704, FUEL FILTER IS NOT REQUIRED.
THIS PRODUCT ISA HEATER. IT IS CERTIFIED TO CSA INTERNATIONAL REQUIREMENT SECTION 4.98, “GAS-FIRED PORTABLE HEATERS FOR RECREATIONAL OR COMMERCIAL USE. ” THIS PRODUCT IS NEVER TO BE USED FOR THE COOKING OR WARMING OF FOODS AS DOING SO CAN INTERFERE WITH THE SAFETY SYSTEMS OF THE HEATER, WHICH MAY RESULT IN A FIRE, EXPLOSION, THE PRODUCTION OF DEADLY CARBON MONOXIDE, AND PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS. NEVER USE HAND-MADE OR THIRD-PARTY ACCESSORIES OR ATTACHMENTS WITH THIS HEATER; THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS
PARTS ORDERING INFORMATION:
PURCHASING: Accessories may be purchased at any Mr. Heater local dealer or direct from the factory
FOR INFORMATION REGARDING SERVICE
Please call Toll-Free 800-251-0001
www.mrheater.com
Our office hours are 8:00 AM- 5:00 PM, EST, Monday through Friday
Please indlude the model number, date of purchase, and description of the problem in all communication.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Mr. Heater, Inc. warrants Its heaters and accessories to be Tree from defects in material and workmanship for a period oT year to dare or purchase. . Heate, Inc. will repair or replace this product Tree or charge t nas Deen proven to De detective within the 1-year period, and is returned at customer expense with proot of purchase to Mr. Heater, Inc. within the waranty period. DISCLAIMER: This warranty does not cover any product that: a) has been subject to misuse or neglect; b) has been used in a manner inconsistent with the warnings and instructions contained in the owner’s manual, including but not limited to using a heater for the cooking or warming of foods, or c) has been used with hand-made or third party accessories or attachments. Ihis warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also nave other rights which vary from state to state.
Mr. Heater, Inc. reserves the right to make changes at any time, without notice or obligation, in colors, specifications5, accessories, materials and models.
PRODUCT REGISTRATION: Thank you for your purchase.
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