You need to use the inline filter made by Mr. Heater on any unregulated hose for these heaters (except one). You also need to change it out every heating season since it will fill up with oil and stop working. The high pressure from the propane causes some of the oils used in the production of the hose to leech out and clog the heater. You can't use a regulated hose because the regulator is in the unit already and double regulating doesn't work well supposedly. They sell a 10 foot hose that apparently doesn't need a filter because they manufactured it differently but it is the only unregulated hose you can use without the filter. The Big Buddy heater (the double bottle heater) has a regulated quick connect hose you can use since it bypasses the regulator on the unit, so no filter needed.
The oil leaching seems to be the only issue and while yes a filter could catch some of the oil but its just a matter of time before the filter fills with oil. Some kind of trap needs to be built to truly address this issue.
Like dissolves like. Nonpolar gas (propane) running through a line that most likely has plasticizers to keep it flexible. And then it clogs up the inlet. Ever worn the wrong gloves using the wrong chemical and poof they start "melting". Yep. th-cam.com/video/nTVG4f4prQE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=VyLaDkN11iGjaVKc
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 Mr. Heater makes a 10 foot hose that does not require a filter, part # F273704. The problem you had came from oil used in the manufacturing of the hose you used to make it more flexible.
@@TheTannerChanner I consistently used a filter and replaced it after 1 year. My heater is still clogged with oil. Now it has to be dismantled and cleaned. Boo! A brand new filter rattles the same as the old, so I don't know how you can tell when they are used up. No sloshing noises.
I do believe that I have the same problem with a Mr.Heater. The unit does not have any flame at all. I opened a new 20 pounder by removing a blue safety cap and connected the regulator to the tank. THE unit did not even show a flame at all. NO FLOW. When I removed the hose regulator connector from the tank I heard a pulse of pressure. SO I do believe the gas is not getting to the orifice where the flame should be burning blue. I will try to clean out the line and see what I can get. Buying used stuff does have its drawbacks. Peace vf Happy New Year OBR. Nice video too Sir. 😀😀😀😀😀😀😀
I bought a Mr. Buddy heater with hose and filter. It ran great. I tried it this year and had a lot of problems. I blew everything out and put on a new filter. Now it seems to be working ok. I would say , change the filter every year before operating.
Great vid. Same happened with my little buddy using a hose with no filter. Don’t have a compressor to blow lines out, but found majority of oil gunk was on the bottom of the regulator where the 19mm fitting is. Take that fitting off, there’s a spring electrical valve that can be pulled out. Cleaned it with a rag along with the orifice it fits into (lots of oil there). Put back together, working fine now. Ordered a filter so don’t need to do this again. 🙂
I use the Mr heater hose & filters, still does it, when it starts acting up, I run a green 1lb can through it, then it works great 2-3 more 20lb cylinders, it’s very strange, even the Mr buddy flex does it, I’ve never took them apart only ran a 1lb through them
Turn off the tank first when you shut down to allow the gas to burn up. If you leave pressurized gas in the line the oil will condense and eventually plug the hose, and finally the filter.
I had similar issues with the Little buddy, for some reasons, itty bitty spiders must like the smell of propane or something. I have also had problems with gas grills, propane smokers and camp stoves. Cleaning out the lines is the only fix, sometimes compressed air works other times you need a disassembly and clean out. Just a bit of info on the hoses if opting to use bulk tanks... The proper hose to use for the buddy heaters is the "Mr. Heater Buddy Series Hose Assembly - 10-ft., Model# F273704" This hose is more rigid than other hoses. You can use this hose without a filter. The filter is F273699 and should be used with aftermarket hoses. From Mr. Heater... "Currently, we make three hose models that do not require a filter: the F273704 which is made from a different chemical compound of rubber that does not have the oily substance that can get into the fuel flow, the F271802 that attaches to a low-pressure line, and the F271803 which is a regulated hose. Since the F271802 & F271803 only see low pressure, the oily substances are not squeezed from the hose material." Hope this helps some folks.
That’s great information!! And yes the hose I have is the Mr. Buddy brand hose (10’). My biggest question is what is the liquid?? It is really oily, does have a slight propane smell to it as well but I have never had a problem like that before. Thank you again for the comment and excellent information!! I hope this helps some other people out!
That oil contamination is coming from the hose. The high pressure from the bottle is causing oils in the hose material to release and make its way into your heater. Mr Heater has an inline filter #F273699 that fits between the heater connection and hose. Thanks for posting this video. It has some good troubleshooting tips 😊
The YT community is amazing! While that is supposed to be a MR. Buddy hose but im suspecting it may have been switched out before I got it.. Between the video and the comments I hope this helps some other folks out as well! Thanks for the comment!
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 I use a Mr. Heater 10' Buddy Series Propane Hose Assembly Part # F273794. It does not require a filter. From what I read the other hoses use oil in the construction to make them more flexible.
Something to do with the hoses leaching that liquid you described into the lines. If you use the hoses instead of the 1 pound cans, you have to use a filter to filter out the liquid. I heard that Mr. Buddy makes an adapter hose that does not leach, but I am not 100% sure. You can check online.
Im off grid for over a decade. Use Buddy everyday in the winter. I use a 30# just clean your buddy once a week. Yeah. Clean your shit. Trust me. Clean the pilot with Alcohol and Pipe cleaners. Im offf grid. The dust, dirt and crap gets into it. Maintenance.
You NEED the Mr Heater Fuel Filter if you gone be hooked up to any propane tanks other than the little green ones. We ran our Little Buddy Heater inside our RV all winter long with no issues. Obviously if using indoors, you need ventilation (fresh air). We cracked open a couple windows in our RV for ventilation and never had any issues. Never even tripped the carbon monoxide or LP gas alarms. Our Little Buddy Heater was hooked up to an 18ft hose running out a window to a 30lb Propane tank outside. Winter in our area doesn't get too cold, on average about 20° for lows and 35° for highs. We would run the Little Buddy Heater pretty much most of the day and all night long, and the 30lb propane tank would last us close to 4 weeks. We also had a small wood stove fan setting on top of the Little Buddy Heater to help circulate the warm air. All in all, this Heater is a must have for my family for off grid camping or emergency situations. It puts out some serious heat. We are going to invest in another one as back up.
The oil leaching seems to be the only issue and while yes a filter could catch some of the oil but its just a matter of time before the filter fills with oil. Some kind of trap needs to be built to truly address this issue.
Condensation is the main reason why the tanks get contaminated over time. Also, the adapter hose can get pressure locked due to the check valves in the fittings.
Over the last 2 years I've run over 2 dozen 20# tanks through my Mr Buddy, and tonight it started acting up and finally required a cleanout of the lines. I do use the inline filter. Might be time to replace that too.
YES ... IM ON MY 2ND BUDDY. READY FOR A THIRD. I HAVE TO BLOW MINE OUT EVERY COUPLE RELIGHTS. JUST KEEP GOING OUT. WITH THE GOOD BLUE FLAME, i only used it on the 4.4gallons tanks. if it dont work i use a brass brush clean the whole area, then blow it out with a small air compressor blower. and it works. i seen someone pulled the hose off red button depressed and blow it out backwards. have not tried that yet. im not mobile so it difficult for me to get that far into it. (Knee replacement)
Most of the hoses need a regulator at the bulk tank or a filter at the heater. I have some hoses that don't need a regulator, but I still use one on all of my hoses. Typically, the more flexible the hose, the more oil that will come out of it. I've got a Big Buddy that I've had for ~20 years, a lot of trial and error with that poor thing. I haven't had an issue using a regulator at the tank and going through the regulator in the heater, but I've heard some people have.
I’m using the filters and the correct Mr. Buddy hoses. I’ve tried hooking 2 of the 20# cylinders up … one on each side. The first 2 I put on was successful & lasted for days . The next time I realized that the heater had gone out so I checked the tanks … one was full and one was empty. I immediately had issues getting a new cylinder to open and the gas to flow. I open very slowly … but the tank valves almost all make a “click” or little “snap” sound . I assumed it was vapor lock or some such . I got 2 installed and going again and the same issue… one tank full and one tank empty … but this time on opposite sides ! I attach the same tanks to my bbq grill and it opens up and the gas starts the grill and the other 2 burners as well . Only one of the 4 full tanks seemed to have lower pressure than the others because it would only light 1 of the 3 burners on my bbq grill . I took that one out of rotation . I went and bought another “Big Buddy” … (this time the green one with the built in fan ) . I put 2 new filters on both sides but only attached 1 of the hoses leading to ONE of those cylinders . THIS time I attached the hose to the cylinder FIRST and super slowly opened the valve… after about an inch I heard the same “click” sound at the tank valve . I assumed I was screwed but I left the valve open and slowly connected the hose to the new Big Buddy heater … I held the knob down in the off position trying to bleed the line . When I turned it to pilot it gave me a weaker looking flame on the pilot but I just waited and it finally stayed consistent until I determined perhaps the thermocoupler could be heated enough and put it on “low” and was successful since it did not go out . I left it going for about a half hour on low after it evened out and the pilot seemed stronger . I experimented with low - medium - and high successfully … but I did not push my luck with TRYING to add a 2nd hose & tank this time . I won’t even turn off the pilot light right now . Am I making some mistake bleeding these lines somehow ? What would be the proper routine to start 2 new 20# tanks properly ? No I am not using a regulator since the Big Buddy has them built in on both sides. BTW … be prepared to need ONE AAA battery with the newer “Green” model with the fan . (It’s needed to make the pilot light work .) It is very different in how it lights the pilot than the red one. I’m 30+ hours of videos in . Yours was great ! Yeah what is that stuff in the line you blew out ? I’m using the filters AND the correct Mr. Heater hoses both . I’m convinced the propane or tanks or both may contain contaminants as well . I see a lesson on the tanks having dates printed on them that required them to be serviced 10 years after date. The one I got to work said 2022. The others say 2015 and 2018 . Who knew there was so much to know about these heaters ? (No adapter came with the new one to make the fan run to an outlet . I put the 4 “D” batteries in the back and the fan works fine. ) I’ll be experimenting for a while . Wish me luck with a 20# tank change over this week when it’s 12 degrees . I have a couple dozen 1 # cylinders just in case I have to abandon the 20# tanks for a couple days . I’d hate to have those big tank change over troubles camping . (I’m just out in the garage taking the edge off for the electric heaters I have on low for the kitties . ) I’m lost … think it’s a combination of either the regulator or the valve in the heater causing the cylinder to lock up ? I would think a regulator at the tank along with the built in one on the heater could give somebody problems . I have not seen a “quick connect “ Mr. Heater hose yet … but is that smart since it does not let you use a filter ? Oh … and does the quick connect have a built in regulator as well ?… or is that when you need the hose to have the built in regulator on the tank end ? I don’t see anybody making videos on many of these questions yet . Great googley moogley ! 🥶🔥👍
@@farmersteve661 Some propane tanks have sticky OPD valves. I have a 30 lb that works fine on my grill and in my RV but won't work on my heaters when it's full. I have to bleed gas out of it to get it to work. I usually just get that one filled to 25 lbs instead of 30 lbs.
@@N1ghtF1reGREAT info thank you so much ! BTW … I had to put a 1# cylinder on the right side of both units today to get the pilots to reignite long enough to stay on after a 20# cylinder change this evening at 40 degrees…( after it was 10 degrees F last night . ) The Red one was the most resistant again. Full 90 seconds prime time … every time. Finally successful and I removed the 1# tanks after I put them back on pilot . The Red went out again after the 1# tank on the right burned out . I removed the 1# and tried again with just the 20# … used the full 90 seconds prime count … and was successful … but had to bump it up to medium to get it ignited even after waiting a long while. On up to high and back down to low and even pilot and back to low with no more problems … YET … until next tank change ! The Red may have to go back . Thanks again ! 👍🥶🔥☃️❄️✌️✌️✌️
The correct hose to use is part # F271803, Big Buddy Hose with regulator, 3/8” female quick connect. I only have the Big Buddy heaters, I don’t know if the smaller heater has a quick connect? In any case either a regulator to reduce pressure will be needed, and if no regulator is used, a filter will be needed. The hose with the regulator doesn’t require a filter because of its lower pressure. I’ve used two heaters for years with the F271803 hose.
Mr BUddy has specific hose made for these heaters that don't have oil. they also have a pressure regulator. Used the wrong hose. For that kind of hose, you do need a filter.
I Just ran a 20 lb tank with the Enerco genuine hoses and filter, it STILL clogged up my supply lines. No more hoses and filters, I am using the refillable 1lb cylinders from FlameKing. I have had the hoses and filters for a long time and never used them, so decided to use them during a cold snap this year, HUGE MISTAKE, just use refillable bottles I have been using those for years on my 3 buddy heaters with no problem and as soon as I start using the hoses, BOOM, clogged! Plus, the refillable 1lb bottles make the devices easier to move around as needed and no risk of a hose getting severed and spewing out propane, creating an explosion risk.
According to Mr. Heater, the problem with the residue is the type of material used for the hose. Mr. Heater makes a hose they say does not give off that residue and dosn't need a filter.
When im done using my buddy's i put them back in a plastic bag while storing them away, haven't had any issues! I also have other sources of heat production incase the power goes out! Prep like your life depends on it! Wemight be in for a wild winter!!!!
I just use their recommended "oil-free" hose & 2 winters it's worked every time, every day hooked to a 20# tank. I use the BIG Buddy with 2 ceramic heating elements. 18,000 btu on the high setting.
I use a 25 gl tank work for 3 years now but my big blue flame heater that junk just dont work dont get it Lil buddy not let me down ever love it works out the box light ever time stay on all night and day just works no mess around
I have used a Big Buddy heater with a Mr. Heater hose with a quick connect fitting and a 20lb bottle in my living room for like the last 15 years with no problem. Had problem lighting it last season, and thanks to a TH-camr, I took a long Q-tip, took most of the cotton off, dipped it in some Ever Clear (100% alcohol) and cleaned the port where gas comes out. Worked fine after that. Using the heater on medium keeps the living room & dining room warm enough that my oil burner doesn't go off so much, even with temps around 30 degrees out.
Propane is very clean as it is delivered to appliances in a vapor form. Not liquid. It's not the propane causing this issue. It's the hose. Buy a hose not made out of rubber or use a filter.
Changed out my tank, dang thing started fluttering wouldn't get started on high 3 heat. A previous poster said shut the tank off, and restart the process. It works great now. Turned 20lb tank on slowly, pushed pilot light button down for 30sec. Maybe it had a air bubble in it? Works great Now! Thank you to the poster for the info. Do the easiest steps 1st! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP 🇺🇸 #47 as he gets Inaugurated today!
unless you use the mr heater 10' hose, you need a filter or the oil from the other mr heater hoses will deposit oil in it and eventually it wont even fire
Hey bro. I was told the lining sloughs off the hose and clogs lines. DON'T use a rubber hose. Use a braided steel line. Blow the lines out. Problem solved.
Good day to you all, you can build your own copper lines for your buddy heater instead of the plastic one. If you know a gas fitter or a plumber they can probably help you out if you're unfamiliar with the process. 👌🇨🇦
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 hey there, if you're anything like me you hoard fittings like it's the great depression 2.0(which I believe it is). The first one I built was a combination of gas lines from an old camper and the brass end of one of these flex hoses. If you've got access to a lpg detector you can make sure your lines are good after you're done.
Exactly, yes I have everything need to make my own gas lines and you are on the same track as me. I figured a hard copper line with a short semi-hard/flex line at the bottle. At the very least it would tell us if the oil is in the propane tank or if it is the hose “leaching” as that is the most popular opinion. While a lot of people’s suggestions sound correct in theory, I would like hard proof via process of elimination!
I wish you would have showed how both ends come off, I have mine tore down to a point where I can get to the lines to remove and clean them, would be much nicer if both ends were off.
Im no rocket scientist but if the oil is being forced from the rubber in the hose by the high pressure isnt that a sign of the hose breaking down under the pressure
Lucky I guess.. we have several of these heaters and this is the only one we used a big bottle on and the only one we have problems with.. and it worked great for 2 years before, right up until we used the big bottle…
First of all, don’t just use any propane hose… use the buddy one… different lining no oil problem. Or use a filter also sold by buddy… however it seems the hose you have has issues and the filter needs to be changed often…
No, there is something called "heavy ends" in the propane refining or "cracking" process. It certainly is NOT the hose creating this oily mess, it's the propane itself. I have been in the industry for years and this is common for LPG and most devices that use propane will just burn the heavy ends off with the LPG. This oil drops out of the LPG when it turns to vapor. Search "Propane Heavy Ends" for an explanation.
Funny Observation: Mr Heater warns NOT to have an external tank in the same room as the heater lest the tank leak & kill everyone in the room AND/OR the heater light off the gas with its burner & burn everyone to death. Gotcha. HOWEVER, My little buddy heater has a pocket in the side to put a 1lb bottle just INCHES from the flame. What? 1lb bottles never leak? I think not. !
yeah, that smelly oil will get into _every_ part. You can use brake parts cleaner to dissolve it and get it out. The filter doesn't necessarily help... it's not really a filter. It's an empty chamber.
Hate these heaters. They never work when I need them. Going to try one of those Amazon jobs that just hook right up to the tank. No hoses or any of that BS.
Bought my big buddy heater for around 200$ plus a 50$ gas line to hook up a bottle...never had so much trouble with any heater I ever used. .DONT BUY A BIG BUDDY HEATER...mine still don't work and it's practically brand new!!
You need to use the inline filter made by Mr. Heater on any unregulated hose for these heaters (except one). You also need to change it out every heating season since it will fill up with oil and stop working. The high pressure from the propane causes some of the oils used in the production of the hose to leech out and clog the heater. You can't use a regulated hose because the regulator is in the unit already and double regulating doesn't work well supposedly. They sell a 10 foot hose that apparently doesn't need a filter because they manufactured it differently but it is the only unregulated hose you can use without the filter. The Big Buddy heater (the double bottle heater) has a regulated quick connect hose you can use since it bypasses the regulator on the unit, so no filter needed.
The oil leaching seems to be the only issue and while yes a filter could catch some of the oil but its just a matter of time before the filter fills with oil. Some kind of trap needs to be built to truly address this issue.
Yeah this is facts. It's just a simple upkeep issue. Just change out your filter once a year just like an oil filter and you'll be fine
Like dissolves like. Nonpolar gas (propane) running through a line that most likely has plasticizers to keep it flexible. And then it clogs up the inlet. Ever worn the wrong gloves using the wrong chemical and poof they start "melting". Yep.
th-cam.com/video/nTVG4f4prQE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=VyLaDkN11iGjaVKc
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 Mr. Heater makes a 10 foot hose that does not require a filter, part # F273704. The problem you had came from oil used in the manufacturing of the hose you used to make it more flexible.
@@TheTannerChanner I consistently used a filter and replaced it after 1 year. My heater is still clogged with oil. Now it has to be dismantled and cleaned. Boo! A brand new filter rattles the same as the old, so I don't know how you can tell when they are used up. No sloshing noises.
I do believe that I have the same problem with a Mr.Heater. The unit does not have any flame at all. I opened a new 20 pounder by removing a blue safety cap and connected the regulator to the tank. THE unit did not even show a flame at all. NO FLOW. When I removed the hose regulator connector from the tank I heard a pulse of pressure. SO I do believe the gas is not getting to the orifice where the flame should be burning blue. I will try to clean out the line and see what I can get. Buying used stuff does have its drawbacks.
Peace vf Happy New Year OBR. Nice video too Sir. 😀😀😀😀😀😀😀
I bought a Mr. Buddy heater with hose and filter. It ran great. I tried it this year and had a lot of problems. I blew everything out and put on a new filter. Now it seems to be working ok. I would say , change the filter every year before operating.
I got the filter when I got the hose, glad I did. It was our only heat source during an ice storm for a few days.
I almost got the filter too.. wish I did!
It was only chance, we had the ice storm and I didn't have time to research or be frugal. I never follow the "rules".
Great vid. Same happened with my little buddy using a hose with no filter. Don’t have a compressor to blow lines out, but found majority of oil gunk was on the bottom of the regulator where the 19mm fitting is. Take that fitting off, there’s a spring electrical valve that can be pulled out. Cleaned it with a rag along with the orifice it fits into (lots of oil there). Put back together, working fine now. Ordered a filter so don’t need to do this again. 🙂
Thanks for the info!
I will never buy another Mr Buddy heater again!!!! Worst propane heater ever!!!!!! JUNK
😂@@Larry-c4w
@TopGun-62 I hope I e it does not fail you in any serious situation.....may consider a back up....
I use the Mr heater hose & filters, still does it, when it starts acting up, I run a green 1lb can through it, then it works great 2-3 more 20lb cylinders, it’s very strange, even the Mr buddy flex does it, I’ve never took them apart only ran a 1lb through them
Nice! Thanks for the suggestion!
Turn off the tank first when you shut down to allow the gas to burn up. If you leave pressurized gas in the line the oil will condense and eventually plug the hose, and finally the filter.
Whew! Good to know as I've been doing that. @@GeorgeGeorge-yb2sz
I had similar issues with the Little buddy, for some reasons, itty bitty spiders must like the smell of propane or something. I have also had problems with gas grills, propane smokers and camp stoves. Cleaning out the lines is the only fix, sometimes compressed air works other times you need a disassembly and clean out.
Just a bit of info on the hoses if opting to use bulk tanks...
The proper hose to use for the buddy heaters is the "Mr. Heater Buddy Series Hose Assembly - 10-ft., Model# F273704" This hose is more rigid than other hoses. You can use this hose without a filter.
The filter is F273699 and should be used with aftermarket hoses.
From Mr. Heater...
"Currently, we make three hose models that do not require a filter: the F273704 which is made from a different chemical compound of rubber that does not have the oily substance that can get into the fuel flow, the F271802 that attaches to a low-pressure line, and the F271803 which is a regulated hose. Since the F271802 & F271803 only see low pressure, the oily substances are not squeezed from the hose material."
Hope this helps some folks.
That’s great information!! And yes the hose I have is the Mr. Buddy brand hose (10’). My biggest question is what is the liquid?? It is really oily, does have a slight propane smell to it as well but I have never had a problem like that before.
Thank you again for the comment and excellent information!! I hope this helps some other people out!
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 Not sure, maybe a contaminated tank? it seemed like quite a bit of liquid.
That's exactly what happened to mine last year, I will definitely pop it apart soon and clean it up
That oil contamination is coming from the hose. The high pressure from the bottle is causing oils in the hose material to release and make its way into your heater. Mr Heater has an inline filter #F273699 that fits between the heater connection and hose. Thanks for posting this video. It has some good troubleshooting tips 😊
The YT community is amazing! While that is supposed to be a MR. Buddy hose but im suspecting it may have been switched out before I got it.. Between the video and the comments I hope this helps some other folks out as well! Thanks for the comment!
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 I use a Mr. Heater 10' Buddy Series Propane Hose Assembly Part # F273794. It does not require a filter. From what I read the other hoses use oil in the construction to make them more flexible.
You should not have to buy a 13 part to run the dam thing. The black stuff comes from the Chinese hose. I'm tired of chineseum. How bout you?
Something to do with the hoses leaching that liquid you described into the lines. If you use the hoses instead of the 1 pound cans, you have to use a filter to filter out the liquid. I heard that Mr. Buddy makes an adapter hose that does not leach, but I am not 100% sure. You can check online.
Mr. Heater does make hoses that can be used without a filter but if you don't use one of their approved filter-less hoses, you need to use the filter.
Now I’m starting to think my hose was switched out and returned, then I bought it…
The Mr Heater filter #F273699 is not that pricey and is good insurance when using an adapter hose for larger bottles.
I’ve been heating with a buddy heater on a 40lb tank for 10 years. I blow it out real good at being off the winter and it runs fine.
good deal!
Im off grid for over a decade. Use Buddy everyday in the winter. I use a 30# just clean your buddy once a week. Yeah. Clean your shit. Trust me. Clean the pilot with Alcohol and Pipe cleaners. Im offf grid. The dust, dirt and crap gets into it. Maintenance.
You NEED the Mr Heater Fuel Filter if you gone be hooked up to any propane tanks other than the little green ones. We ran our Little Buddy Heater inside our RV all winter long with no issues. Obviously if using indoors, you need ventilation (fresh air). We cracked open a couple windows in our RV for ventilation and never had any issues. Never even tripped the carbon monoxide or LP gas alarms. Our Little Buddy Heater was hooked up to an 18ft hose running out a window to a 30lb Propane tank outside. Winter in our area doesn't get too cold, on average about 20° for lows and 35° for highs. We would run the Little Buddy Heater pretty much most of the day and all night long, and the 30lb propane tank would last us close to 4 weeks. We also had a small wood stove fan setting on top of the Little Buddy Heater to help circulate the warm air. All in all, this Heater is a must have for my family for off grid camping or emergency situations. It puts out some serious heat. We are going to invest in another one as back up.
The oil leaching seems to be the only issue and while yes a filter could catch some of the oil but its just a matter of time before the filter fills with oil. Some kind of trap needs to be built to truly address this issue.
Condensation is the main reason why the tanks get contaminated over time. Also, the adapter hose can get pressure locked due to the check valves in the fittings.
Over the last 2 years I've run over 2 dozen 20# tanks through my Mr Buddy, and tonight it started acting up and finally required a cleanout of the lines. I do use the inline filter. Might be time to replace that too.
The oily gunk comes from the inside of the hoses not the bottle.
That would make sense! But it is the Mr. Buddy brand hose for that heater.
Only certain ones of the Big Buddy hoses can be used without a filter.@@OldBarkerRanch1981
YES ... IM ON MY 2ND BUDDY. READY FOR A THIRD. I HAVE TO BLOW MINE OUT EVERY COUPLE RELIGHTS. JUST KEEP GOING OUT. WITH THE GOOD BLUE FLAME, i only used it on the 4.4gallons tanks. if it dont work i use a brass brush clean the whole area, then blow it out with a small air compressor blower. and it works. i seen someone pulled the hose off red button depressed and blow it out backwards. have not tried that yet. im not mobile so it difficult for me to get that far into it. (Knee replacement)
Most of the hoses need a regulator at the bulk tank or a filter at the heater. I have some hoses that don't need a regulator, but I still use one on all of my hoses. Typically, the more flexible the hose, the more oil that will come out of it. I've got a Big Buddy that I've had for ~20 years, a lot of trial and error with that poor thing.
I haven't had an issue using a regulator at the tank and going through the regulator in the heater, but I've heard some people have.
We have 4 of them but this is the only one that has had a big tank on it..
I’m using the filters and the correct Mr. Buddy hoses. I’ve tried hooking 2 of the 20# cylinders up … one on each side. The first 2 I put on was successful & lasted for days . The next time I realized that the heater had gone out so I checked the tanks … one was full and one was empty. I immediately had issues getting a new cylinder to open and the gas to flow. I open very slowly … but the tank valves almost all make a “click” or little “snap” sound . I assumed it was vapor lock or some such . I got 2 installed and going again and the same issue… one tank full and one tank empty … but this time on opposite sides ! I attach the same tanks to my bbq grill and it opens up and the gas starts the grill and the other 2 burners as well . Only one of the 4 full tanks seemed to have lower pressure than the others because it would only light 1 of the 3 burners on my bbq grill . I took that one out of rotation . I went and bought another “Big Buddy” … (this time the green one with the built in fan ) . I put 2 new filters on both sides but only attached 1 of the hoses leading to ONE of those cylinders . THIS time I attached the hose to the cylinder FIRST and super slowly opened the valve… after about an inch I heard the same “click” sound at the tank valve . I assumed I was screwed but I left the valve open and slowly connected the hose to the new Big Buddy heater … I held the knob down in the off position trying to bleed the line . When I turned it to pilot it gave me a weaker looking flame on the pilot but I just waited and it finally stayed consistent until I determined perhaps the thermocoupler could be heated enough and put it on “low” and was successful since it did not go out . I left it going for about a half hour on low after it evened out and the pilot seemed stronger . I experimented with low - medium - and high successfully … but I did not push my luck with TRYING to add a 2nd hose & tank this time . I won’t even turn off the pilot light right now . Am I making some mistake bleeding these lines somehow ? What would be the proper routine to start 2 new 20# tanks properly ? No I am not using a regulator since the Big Buddy has them built in on both sides. BTW … be prepared to need ONE AAA battery with the newer “Green” model with the fan . (It’s needed to make the pilot light work .) It is very different in how it lights the pilot than the red one. I’m 30+ hours of videos in . Yours was great ! Yeah what is that stuff in the line you blew out ? I’m using the filters AND the correct Mr. Heater hoses both . I’m convinced the propane or tanks or both may contain contaminants as well . I see a lesson on the tanks having dates printed on them that required them to be serviced 10 years after date. The one I got to work said 2022. The others say 2015 and 2018 . Who knew there was so much to know about these heaters ? (No adapter came with the new one to make the fan run to an outlet . I put the 4 “D” batteries in the back and the fan works fine. ) I’ll be experimenting for a while . Wish me luck with a 20# tank change over this week when it’s 12 degrees . I have a couple dozen 1 # cylinders just in case I have to abandon the 20# tanks for a couple days . I’d hate to have those big tank change over troubles camping . (I’m just out in the garage taking the edge off for the electric heaters I have on low for the kitties . ) I’m lost … think it’s a combination of either the regulator or the valve in the heater causing the cylinder to lock up ? I would think a regulator at the tank along with the built in one on the heater could give somebody problems . I have not seen a “quick connect “ Mr. Heater hose yet … but is that smart since it does not let you use a filter ? Oh … and does the quick connect have a built in regulator as well ?… or is that when you need the hose to have the built in regulator on the tank end ? I don’t see anybody making videos on many of these questions yet . Great googley moogley ! 🥶🔥👍
@@farmersteve661 Some propane tanks have sticky OPD valves.
I have a 30 lb that works fine on my grill and in my RV but won't work on my heaters when it's full. I have to bleed gas out of it to get it to work.
I usually just get that one filled to 25 lbs instead of 30 lbs.
@@N1ghtF1reGREAT info thank you so much ! BTW … I had to put a 1# cylinder on the right side of both units today to get the pilots to reignite long enough to stay on after a 20# cylinder change this evening at 40 degrees…( after it was 10 degrees F last night . ) The Red one was the most resistant again. Full 90 seconds prime time … every time. Finally successful and I removed the 1# tanks after I put them back on pilot . The Red went out again after the 1# tank on the right burned out . I removed the 1# and tried again with just the 20# … used the full 90 seconds prime count … and was successful … but had to bump it up to medium to get it ignited even after waiting a long while. On up to high and back down to low and even pilot and back to low with no more problems … YET … until next tank change ! The Red may have to go back . Thanks again ! 👍🥶🔥☃️❄️✌️✌️✌️
The correct hose to use is part # F271803, Big Buddy Hose with regulator, 3/8” female quick connect. I only have the Big Buddy heaters, I don’t know if the smaller heater has a quick connect? In any case either a regulator to reduce pressure will be needed, and if no regulator is used, a filter will be needed. The hose with the regulator doesn’t require a filter because of its lower pressure. I’ve used two heaters for years with the F271803 hose.
Mr BUddy has specific hose made for these heaters that don't have oil. they also have a pressure regulator. Used the wrong hose. For that kind of hose, you do need a filter.
That is supposed to be a Mr Buddy hose… key word “supposed”
I Just ran a 20 lb tank with the Enerco genuine hoses and filter, it STILL clogged up my supply lines. No more hoses and filters, I am using the refillable 1lb cylinders from FlameKing. I have had the hoses and filters for a long time and never used them, so decided to use them during a cold snap this year, HUGE MISTAKE, just use refillable bottles I have been using those for years on my 3 buddy heaters with no problem and as soon as I start using the hoses, BOOM, clogged! Plus, the refillable 1lb bottles make the devices easier to move around as needed and no risk of a hose getting severed and spewing out propane, creating an explosion risk.
According to Mr. Heater, the problem with the residue is the type of material used for the hose. Mr. Heater makes a hose they say does not give off that residue and dosn't need a filter.
When im done using my buddy's i put them back in a plastic bag while storing them away, haven't had any issues! I also have other sources of heat production incase the power goes out! Prep like your life depends on it! Wemight be in for a wild winter!!!!
I dont know if im seeing this right or not, but is there a regulator on that big tank line?
I just use their recommended "oil-free" hose & 2 winters it's worked every time, every day hooked to a 20# tank.
I use the BIG Buddy with 2 ceramic heating elements. 18,000 btu on the high setting.
Good video. 👍
Thank you!
I use a 25 gl tank work for 3 years now but my big blue flame heater that junk just dont work dont get it
Lil buddy not let me down ever love it works out the box light ever time stay on all night and day just works no mess around
Nice!
I've tried using a filter with a brand new mr buddy and it won't light.
I have used a Big Buddy heater with a Mr. Heater hose with a quick connect fitting and a 20lb bottle in my living room for like the last 15 years with no problem. Had problem lighting it last season, and thanks to a TH-camr, I took a long Q-tip, took most of the cotton off, dipped it in some Ever Clear (100% alcohol) and cleaned the port where gas comes out. Worked fine after that. Using the heater on medium keeps the living room & dining room warm enough that my oil burner doesn't go off so much, even with temps around 30 degrees out.
Propane is very clean as it is delivered to appliances in a vapor form. Not liquid. It's not the propane causing this issue. It's the hose. Buy a hose not made out of rubber or use a filter.
I have used buddy and big buddy heaters with a 4ft hose and a filter for over 15 years and i have never had to fix either of my heaters.
You can now also buy a refillable Fuel Keg and refill kit and avoid any host problems at all.
Not sure if blowing high pressure air into a regulator is a good idea.
Most of the time you can take a quilt tip .take some cotton off it wet it with alcohol. Slid it in and out that hole .a few times .usually works
Thanks!
For future use away have your MRI buddy heater 1 foot above the tank , but it's oil residue.
That’s a really good idea! Let gravity keep the oil down.
Its the oil coming out of the hose
Flush those lines out with some brake cleaner or alcohol or something other than air. My heater was absolutely full of oil
Does That Fan Help At All
I couldn't believe how much it helps!!! That fan is a total game changer for the Mr. Buddy Heater!!
I would run the buddy filter even on the hose they claim doesn't give off goop. From what I've read, it's the hose, not the propane.
Every season I have to put the dial on pilot and hold the button down for several minutes then your pilot light will come on
They make a filter to put on you heater when you run a 20lb tank ,i think i got mine at home depot
I hear that if you use a big tank with a hose, you need to use a filter between the heater and the hose.
Changed out my tank, dang thing started fluttering wouldn't get started on high 3 heat.
A previous poster said shut the tank off, and restart the process. It works great now.
Turned 20lb tank on slowly, pushed pilot light button down for 30sec.
Maybe it had a air bubble in it?
Works great Now!
Thank you to the poster for the info. Do the easiest steps 1st!
GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP 🇺🇸 #47 as he gets Inaugurated today!
unless you use the mr heater 10' hose, you need a filter or the oil from the other mr heater hoses will deposit oil in it and eventually it wont even fire
So did you run it and leave it overnight or run it and leave it over the summer???? Which was it???
Hey bro. I was told the lining sloughs off the hose and clogs lines. DON'T use a rubber hose. Use a braided steel line. Blow the lines out. Problem solved.
Thats the common thought.. I am going to test that theory soon, I will post a video with the results.
Ive heard its oil / substance in the LONGER lines.
If you didn’t put it I a Mr Buddy heater cover that’s your problem. I been using my Buddy heater with 20 lb for the winter so far so good.
Cover?
The more flexible the hose, the more oil it contains. The oil leeches out when the hose is pressurized.
Fuel filters a must no matter what hose even mr Heater's.
A trap would be better.
Good day to you all, you can build your own copper lines for your buddy heater instead of the plastic one. If you know a gas fitter or a plumber they can probably help you out if you're unfamiliar with the process. 👌🇨🇦
Ya know, I never thought about that! I may just do that! I will put a video up about it when I do! Thanks for the awesome suggestion!!!
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 hey there, if you're anything like me you hoard fittings like it's the great depression 2.0(which I believe it is). The first one I built was a combination of gas lines from an old camper and the brass end of one of these flex hoses. If you've got access to a lpg detector you can make sure your lines are good after you're done.
Exactly, yes I have everything need to make my own gas lines and you are on the same track as me. I figured a hard copper line with a short semi-hard/flex line at the bottle. At the very least it would tell us if the oil is in the propane tank or if it is the hose “leaching” as that is the most popular opinion. While a lot of people’s suggestions sound correct in theory, I would like hard proof via process of elimination!
Copper lines don't flex very good, and are really unnecessary if you set it up correctly with a filter.
I wish you would have showed how both ends come off, I have mine tore down to a point where I can get to the lines to remove and clean them, would be much nicer if both ends were off.
Dang! I'm sorry.. It was a total pain to get apart...Getting it back together was even worse!!
Used the filter and it still kept going out!
Im no rocket scientist but if the oil is being forced from the rubber in the hose by the high pressure isnt that a sign of the hose breaking down under the pressure
The more comments the more I don’t think the hose is “leaching” but who knows for sure..
You don’t have to take it down that far bud. You can just take the regulator side off to get to the regulator and line sets
I will try that! It has to come apart again…
That goo is from the inside of the hose touching the LP gas
I know a few folks have the same issue, I use 20# bottles with a filter, just changed it too, never had a problem atleast yet
A filter or trap is definitely needed!
I used mine for yrs with a big bottle never had a problem
Lucky I guess.. we have several of these heaters and this is the only one we used a big bottle on and the only one we have problems with.. and it worked great for 2 years before, right up until we used the big bottle…
First of all, don’t just use any propane hose… use the buddy one… different lining no oil problem. Or use a filter also sold by buddy… however it seems the hose you have has issues and the filter needs to be changed often…
Agreed
i have issues even with the filter-
No, there is something called "heavy ends" in the propane refining or "cracking" process. It certainly is NOT the hose creating this oily mess, it's the propane itself. I have been in the industry for years and this is common for LPG and most devices that use propane will just burn the heavy ends off with the LPG. This oil drops out of the LPG when it turns to vapor. Search "Propane Heavy Ends" for an explanation.
This is what I had figured was the case. Thanks!!
Do you know why the "heavy ends" don't affect the little 1lbs bottles?
A question I have been asking myself...
I bought a Mr buddy hose and haven’t had any issues
Hopefully it stays that way! good luck bud!
Funny Observation:
Mr Heater warns NOT to have an external tank in the same room as the heater lest the tank leak & kill everyone in the room AND/OR the heater light off the gas with its burner & burn everyone to death. Gotcha.
HOWEVER,
My little buddy heater has a pocket in the side to put a 1lb bottle just INCHES from the flame. What? 1lb bottles never leak?
I think not.
!
It ain’t your tank it’s your hose
We are going to do some testing to prove or disprove that theory
Need oil free hose .
That's called a manual reset.
They say the liquid comes from the hose.use a filter
Maybe a small amount but I can't see it being continuous...
It comes from the propane tank
yeah, that smelly oil will get into _every_ part. You can use brake parts cleaner to dissolve it and get it out. The filter doesn't necessarily help... it's not really a filter. It's an empty chamber.
A filter would act more as a trap I would think.
Hate these heaters. They never work when I need them. Going to try one of those Amazon jobs that just hook right up to the tank. No hoses or any of that BS.
The biggest junk propane heater ever made
Facts used my brand new one with 1 pounder twice and it broke both times
Bought my big buddy heater for around 200$ plus a 50$ gas line to hook up a bottle...never had so much trouble with any heater I ever used.
.DONT BUY A BIG BUDDY HEATER...mine still don't work and it's practically brand new!!
Yea, thats what I buy a heater for....to get propane all over me and tear into this crap . Mr Heater...you suck.
For gosh sakes. Thats not a 20 lb
Propane bottle.
No that one is a 30 lb bottle… most people use a 20 though…
Can the psi be too high on anything over a 20# cylinder using the Big Buddy ? 😎✌️
I wouldnt think so as the Mr. Buddy has its own built in regulator..
@@OldBarkerRanch1981 I use a forty pound with filter zero problems!
Its the cheap Chinese bullshit hose. And there's no filter inside the 13 dollar filter. Had to take mine apart and clean the black crap out of mine.
4:19
??
I know a few folks have the same issue, I use 20# bottles with a filter, just changed it too, never had a problem atleast yet
Nice!