Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a general question about our heaters? To help, we have compiled a listing of the most frequently asked questions with detailed answers about our products. If you have a a question that has not been answered please contact customer service.

Construction Heating Products

Kerosene Forced Air Heaters

How long is your warranty?
All of our kerosene heater units come with a limited one-year warranty.

Where can I take my heater to be serviced?
Find a Service Center

How do I maintain my forced air heater?

My heater runs for a short period of time then shuts off?
Try turning your air pressure up 1 PSI and try to start again. Also be sure after running a couple minutes that the nose cone is cherry red without any flames coming out. If it is not cherry red turn your air pressure up a 1/2 PSI or until the nose cone glows red. If heater is running at correct air pressure and still shutting off, then a slight adjustment to the High Temperature Switch Bracket may be required. Bending the bracket slightly away from the rear of the combustion chamber will decrease the sensitivity of the switch.

Where can I find my model number?
The model number can either be found on the Upper Shell of the heater (below the brand name), or to the left of the Power Switch on the right side cover. It is also located on the outside of the heater’s carton by the UPC.

Where can I find my serial number?
The serial number is found on the right side cover.

Can I use another fuel besides kerosene?
Our Kerosene forced-air heaters will run on multiple fuels such as K-1 kerosene, JP8/JetA, #1 and #2 fuel oil, or #1 and #2 diesel oil. Please be advised that because of the additives contained in diesel fuel, additional ventilation will be required to disperse the added contaminants produced. Additional maintenance to the heater will also be required.

How do I adjust the pump pressure on my forced air heater?

What are the minimum clearances required from combustibles?

If the flame goes out, will fuel continue to pump?
The heater uses a photocell to “see” the flame in the combustion chamber. Should the flame extinguish, the sensor will stop electrical current, and the heater will shut off.

What happens if the heater loses electrical power, or is accidentally unplugged?
The heater will automatically shut off, and fuel will stop being pumped to the combustion chamber.

Can I use kerosene from last season?
Kerosene breaks down over time. Never use kerosene that has been stored from one season to the next. Never store leftover kerosene over the summer. Using old fuel can damage your heater.

How much ventilation do I need to use my heater safely?
The standard is to always provide a fresh air opening in the heated space of at least 3 square feet (2,800 sq. cm.) for each 100,000 BTU/Hr of heater output. For example, a REM-140T-KFA-O/REM-140T-KFA-B (140,000 BTUs/Hr) heater will require:

• a two-car garage door open 6 inches, or
• a single-car garage door open 9 inches, or
• two 32 inch wide windows to be open 15 inches.

Can I use an extension cord? If so, what size do I need?
Yes, you can use extension cords with your heater. Please use the right size extension cord as shown below:

• 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters), use 18 AWG conductor wire
• 11 to 100 feet (3.4 to 30.4 meters), use 16 AWG conductor wire
• 101 to 200 feet (30.8 to 61 meters), use 14 AWG conductor wire

I just bought a heater, and am using diesel fuel. It runs for about 3 minutes, and then stops. What can I do?
Our kerosene heaters do operate with diesel fuel, but usually when the temperature is below 30° F, winterized diesel additives are needed to keep the diesel’s viscosity. Typical Diesel (also known as #2 Diesel or #2 Fuel Oil) will cloud from 20°F (-7°C) to as high as 40°F (4°C). Once the diesel start to gel you will need additives for your diesel or winterized diesel (additives are already included). On the other hand, K1 Kerosene (also known as #1 Diesel or #1 Fuel Oil) does not start to gel until the ambient temperature is around -40° F (-40°C). * In general, number #2 Fuel (diesel) will develop significant cold flow problems in cold weather without additives.

What should my pump pressure on my heater be set at?
Below is a list stating pump pressure for each model.

• 45-KFA: 3.0 PSI
• 80-KFA: 3.8 PSI
• 140-KFA: 6.6 PSI
• 175-KFA: 7.5 PSI
• 215-KFA: 9.0 PSI

The heater is making a spark, but is not starting?
Unplug the heater and open up the lid. If the fan does not spin, it is likely that the end pump cover is too tight. Do not use a power driver to tighten the 6 screws holding the rotor in. Loosen the screws, and inspect the rotor and blades. The blades should not have any marks on them, and should sit just a bit inside the rotor, not being flush on the outside or at the top where the edge of the blade and the edge of the rotor meet. The gap between the top of the rotor and pump body should only be big enough to slide a dollar bill in the gap. Reinstall the end pump cover and 6 screws so that they are only hand tightened. The fan should spin freely now, and the heater should work. Replace the rotor if it is worn or broken.

The motor starts but the heater does not ignite. What are the possible causes and solutions?
If no spark is present at the Spark Plug, there is an insufficient ground. Check that the wires between the spark plug and the ignitor are securely attached and that ground wire is securely attached to the body of the heater. If the spark plug is corroded or cracked, replace it. Re-gap the Spark Plug to 0.140 inches (3.5mm). Have an Authorized Service Center test for a faulty ignitor (Transformer). Parts are available through any Authorized Service Center or by contacting Pinnacle directly.

Check and adjust the pump Pressure to the manufacturer’s specifications listed in the User’s Manual. A dirty fuel filter or nozzle can obstruct the flow of fuel to the spark plug. Refer to the User’s Manual for instructions on cleaning these components. An air leak will impede the flow of fuel to the burner head. Inspect the End Filter Cover for cracks and, if found, replace it. A disconnected or ruptured Air Line will impede the flow of fuel to the burner head. Check that the Air Line is securely attached and inspect it for cracks. Replace this part if necessary.

There is some kerosene coming out the front of my heater. 
This is common, if several unsuccessful attempts at lighting the heater were made. It will soon dissipate and be burnt off.

The heater works with the lid opened, but not when the lid is closed.
First check the air pressure gauge. Be sure the air pressure is set to the required pressure. If this doesn’t work, you may have a fuel blockage or air leak. Check the fuel filter and nozzle for blockage, and the end filter cover for cracks. Be sure all screws are snug and tight.

How do I adjust the rotor gap?
Loosening the two screws (in the Pump Body, above and below rotor) will allow you to adjust how the rotor sits in the Pump Body (and the gap between the top of the rotor and the inside of the pump body). Fold a dollar bill in half, and place it between the rotor and the pump body, then tighten the two screws so that the dollar bill barely slides between the top of the rotor and pump body.

Can I use this heater indoors?
Never use this heater for indoor residential applications! This heater is certified for outdoor use only, indoor use only with adequate ventilation as prescribed in the User’s Manual. It is intended for temporary heating of buildings under construction, alteration, or repair.

The motor has power but does not run. What are the possible causes and solutions?
One likely cause is insufficient voltage either at the electrical outlet or at the end of the extension cord. Refer to the User’s Manual for Proper Cord Sizing. Inspect the Fuse on the PCB and, if defective, replace with a new one. The motor or capacitor may be faulty and need to be replaced. Replace broken or misshapen Rotor or Blades. Adjust the gap between the Pump Body and the Rotor (See How do I adjust the rotor? above). Adjust the set point on the thermostat to a higher setting. The Thermal Limit Switch may be defective and need to be replaced. Inspect and tighten all electrical connections between the PCB and the Motor. Check that the Fan Blade can spin freely within the shell. Remove any obstruction and replace the blade if damaged.

How do I order parts for my heater?
Parts can be ordered by contacting us at 800-641-6996 or filling out a form on the “Parts” tab under “Customer-Service”

Kerosene Radiant Heaters

How long is your warranty?
All of our kerosene heater units come with a limited one-year warranty.

Where can I take my heater to be serviced?
Find a Service Center

Where can I find my model number?
The model number can either be found on the rear cover of the heater or the outside of the heater’s carton by the UPC.

Where can I find my serial number?
The serial number can be found on the rear cover.

Can I use another fuel besides kerosene?
Our Kerosene forced-air heaters will run on multiple fuels such as K-1 kerosene, JP8/JetA, #1 and #2 fuel oil, or #1 and #2 diesel oil. Please be advised that because of the additives contained in diesel fuel, additional ventilation will be required to disperse the added contaminants produced. Additional maintenance to the heater will also be required.

Can I use kerosene from last season?
Kerosene breaks down over time. Never use kerosene that has been stored from one season to the next. Never store leftover kerosene over the summer. Using old fuel can damage your heater.

How do I adjust the pump pressure on my radiant heater?

What are the minimum clearance required from combustibles?
The chart below will help you with minimum clearances from combustibles:

Model	Top	Sides	Front
80 OFR	4 ft.	4 ft.	8 ft.
125 OFR	6 ft.	6 ft.	6 ft.

If the flame goes out, will fuel continue to pump?
The heater uses a photocell to “see” the flame in the combustion chamber. Should the flame extinguish, the sensor will stop electrical current, and the heater will shut off.

Turned power off but the fan still runs?
This heater must cycle through a “Cool Down Phase” in which the fan continues to run for approximately 3 minutes to circulate air through the combustion chamber to cool it before shutting off completely.

What happens if the heater loses electrical power, or is accidentally unplugged?
Heater my restart when reapplying power. If the heater does not restart but the fan runs after being plugged back in, it will have to complete the “Cool Down Cycle” before restarting.

Can I use an extension cord? If so, what size do I need?
Yes, you can use extension cords with your heater. Please use the right size extension cord as shown below:

• 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters), use 18 AWG conductor wire
• 11 to 100 feet (3.4 to 30.4 meters), use 16 AWG conductor wire
• 101 to 200 feet (30.8 to 61 meters), use 14 AWG conductor wire

The heater is making a spark, but is not starting?
Be sure that fuel bowel is full and not allowing any air into the fuel system. If it is drawing air, fuel delivery may be inconsistent. The fuel must be sprayed in a continuous atomized pattern to ignite.

Can I use this heater indoors?
Never use this heater for indoor residential applications! This heater is certified for outdoor use only, indoor use only with adequate ventilation as prescribed in the User’s Manual. It is intended for temporary heating of buildings under construction, alteration, or repair.

Can I use this heater on a finished floor?
Never use this heater on a finished floor! We do not recommend using this heater on a finished floor without the use of an approved heat blanket specified in the User’s Manual.

Power switch is turned on and the heater goes to misfire without any action from the heater.
Wires attached to the High Temperature switch may have become loose or unplugged. Check for proper connection to the High Temperature Switch.

Can I use this heater on unlevel surfaces?
This heater is equipped with a tip switch and may not operate on unlevel surfaces. Heater may shut off if moved on unleveled surfaces while in operation.

How long will my heater run on a tank of fuel?

• 80OFR: 6 hour run time on a full tank of fuel
• 125OFR: 20 hour run time on a full tank of fuel

How much ventilation do I need to use my heater safely?
The standard is to always provide a fresh air opening in the heated space of at least 3 square feet (2,800 sq. cm.) for each 100,000 BTU/Hr of heater output. For example, a REM-125-OFR-O (125,000 BTUs/Hr) heater will require:

• a two-car garage door open 6 inches, or
• a single-car garage door open 9 inches, or
• two 32 inch wide windows to be open 15 inches.

Propane Forced Air Heaters

Can I hook up a thermostat to my Gas Forced Air Heater?
External thermostats cannot be used on any of our Propane heater units. We do sell a 150,000 BTU natural gas forced air heater with built-in thermostat.

How long is my warranty?
All of our propane and natural gas heater units come with a limited one-year warranty.

Where can I find my model number?
The model number is found on the front of the base. It is also located on the outside of the heater’s carton by the UPC.

Where can I find my serial number?
The serial number is found on the front of the base.

The heater runs for about 15 minutes then shuts off.
The fuel tank may be low on fuel, or the Tank maybe too small for the heater, not providing enough vapor to run such a large heater. Another possibility is the inlet or outlet of the heater are being restricted and causing the high temperature switch to activate prematurely. The 40k and 60k heaters can be used on a 20-lb. propane tank.  The 125k and 150k heaters are designed to run on a 100-lb. propane tank.

I have a full tank, but the colder it gets, the less heat I am receiving.
In general, liquid propane is always trying to become a gas and escape the tank. (It boils at –44°F, unless it is under pressure). When the air surrounding the tank is cold, the liquid propane is less willing to become a gas, thus lowering the pressure. Basically, a full tank in 70°F will exert a lot more pressure than a full tank in 30°F. Ambient temperature outside the tank determines the pressure of the propane, as long as you have some liquid inside the tank and the liquid does not exceed 80% of the tank (which explains why you never receive a full tank of liquid propane).

How can I convert gallons to cubic feet?
To convert gallons to cubic feet, simply multiply it by 36.28 (60°F at sea level). This factor may vary depending on altitude, temperature and meter type.

My 60,000 BTU GFA heater’s igniter is still clicking. Is that normal?
The REM-60V-GFA-O, REM-125V-GFA-O, REM-60V-GFA-B, REM-125V-GFA-B, and REM-150V-GFA-B all contain what is called “Continuous Electronic Ignition”, and is perfectly normal.

How long will my heater run on a full tank of propane?

• 40k heater, 20-lb. tank: 11 hours
• 60k heater, 20-lb. tank: 10.5 hours
• 125k heater, 100-lb. tank: 22 hours
• 150k heater, 100-lb. tank: 18 hours

How much pressure will I receive from my propane tank on a cold day?
Vapor pressure (PSI) is determined by the ambient temperature. Please see our Propane Vapor Pressure Chart:

Temp (°F)	Vapor Pressure (PSI)
-30°	6.8
-20°	11.5
-10°	17.5
0°	24.5
10°	34
20°	42
30°	53
40°	65
50°	78
60°	93
70°	110
80°	128
90°	150
100°	177
110°	204

(Propane boils at –44°F)

How do I order parts for my heater?
Parts can be ordered by contacting us at (800) 641-6996.

How much ventilation do I nee to use my heater safely?
The standard is to always provide a fresh air opening in the heated space of at least 3 square feet (2,800 sq. cm.) for each 100,000 BTU/Hr of heater output. For example, a REM-125V-GFA-O/REM-125V-GFA-B (125,000 BTUs/Hr) heater will require:

• a two-car garage door open 6 inches, or
• a single-car garage door open 9 inches, or
• Two 32 inch wide windows to be open 15 inches.

Propane Tank Top Heaters

How long is my warranty?
All of our propane and natural gas heater units come with a limited one-year warranty.

Can I use a tank larger than a 20-lb. tank?
No, the largest tank that can be used is a 20-lb. tank. The 20-lb. tank has provisions to mount the base of the heater to the top handle of the tank. The 40-lb. and larger tanks do not have this provision. The only size tank approved for use with this style heater is a 20-lb. tank.

What is the smallest size propane tank the tank top can use?
The smallest propane tank that can be used with a tank top heater is 5 lbs.

Can I use this heater in my house?
No, this product is designed for outdoor use or in a non-enclosed environment. It is against Federal Regulations to use an LP tank indoors. Refer to page 9 of the User’s Manual for ventilation requirements.

How do I operate my tank top heater?

How do I test for leaks?
Use a 50/50 mix of dish soap and water and spray the connections of the heater. If bubbles appear, that is the location of the leak.

How do I order parts for my heater?
Parts can be ordered by contacting us at 800-641-6996.

What is the function of the tip switch?
The tip switch is a safety device that turns off the gas flow to the burner in any instance of tipping over. This switch is to prevent the leaking of liquid propane and protect against fire if the heater is knocked over.

Heater will light, but will go out when releasing the plunger on the safety valve.
You have several options.
Option 1: BE sure that fuel tank control valve is in the fully open position. Check the fuel tank for the proper fuel level; if the tank is low and running in cold conditions the propane tank may not be able to produce enough vapor to operate the heater.
Option 2: The thermocouple may not be working properly. Please contact our customer service department at 800-641-6996 for troubleshooting tips, or click on the video for help troubleshooting.
Option 3: When lighting the heater, keep the control knob of the valve pushed in for approximately 10 seconds. This will give the thermocouple enough time to be heated properly and will allow the valve to stay open and the heater to function correctly.

What is the amount of run time a 20-lb. tank with my heater?

• 16-TTC: 35 hours on low and 27 hours on high
• 32-TTC: 17 hours on low and 13 hours on high
• 47-TTC: 12 hours on low and 9 hours on high

What are the required clearances to combustibles for the heater?
Minimum clearance from Combustibles:

Model	Top	Sides	Front	Rear
REM-16-TTC-O	5 ft.	3 ft.	5 ft.	3 ft.
REM-32-TTC-O	5 ft.	3 ft.	5 ft.	3 ft.
REM-16-TTC-B	5 ft.	3 ft.	5 ft.	3 ft.
REM-32-TTC-B	5 ft.	3 ft.	5 ft.	3 ft.
REM-47-TTC-B	5 ft.	3 ft.	5 ft.	3 ft.

I am getting an odor from the heater. Is this normal?
The first time the heater is used there may be a small odor and/or smoke from the burner head. This is normal. There are residual manufacturing oils burning off of the heater during the initial burn. The odor and/or smoke should be eliminated in a matter of a couple minutes. In cold temperatures, a 20-lb. propane tank cannot vaporize enough fuel for the heater to run efficiently, especially when the tank is near empty. Exchanging the tank or having it refilled will resolve the problem.

The wind keeps blowing out the heater. Is this normal?
The product is designed to withstand up to 20 mph winds and function correctly. IF you are having nuisance outages, shut the heater off and wait until it cools. Then, rotate the tank opposite of the direction the wind is blowing.

How do I know if the thermocouple is bad or working correctly?
The thermocouple is heated by the burner head and creates voltage that keeps the valve energized to continue gas flow. If the heater is functioning properly, the thermocouple is working correctly. Please contact our Customer Service Department at 800-641-6996 for troubleshooting information if the heater continues to shut off.

Radiant Cabinet Heaters

How long is my warranty?
Our Cabinet Utility Heaters come with a limited one-year warranty.

How do I order parts for my heater?
Parts can be ordered by contacting us at 800-641-6996.

Can I use a longer hose?
We do not recommend using any other hose than the hose that came with your Cabinet Heater.

I have a full tank, but the colder it gets, the less heat I am receiving.
In general, liquid propane is always trying to become a gas and escape the tank. (It boils at –44ºF, unless it is under pressure). When the air surrounding the tank is cold, the liquid propane is less willing to become a gas, thus lowering the pressure. Basically, a full tank in 70ºF will exert a lot more pressure than a full tank in 30ºF. Ambient temperature outside the tank determines the pressure of the propane, as long as you have some liquid inside the tank and the liquid does not exceed 80% of the tank (which explains why you never receive a full tank of liquid propane).

Where can I find my serial number?
The serial number is found on the left side of the cabinet heater on the white label, below the model number.

The middle brick is only burning half way. What can I do?
Sometimes during shipping, dust can get into the bricks. Use compressed air to lightly blow out any dust from the bricks. You can also use a barbecue lighter to light the top of the brick for the first time of lighting.

I just hooked up my propane tank for the first time, and the pilot will not light.
There are a couple things to check. First, if you have turned on the propane tank too fast, the excess flow check valve in the regulator will stop the flow of gas. Try closing the propane tank, disconnecting the regulator, reconnect the regulator and slowly open the valve on the propane tank.

You also want to make sure you are pressing in the Gas Valve Knob for at least 10-20 seconds to bleed out any air that was sitting in the hose. Several attempts may be needed to bleed all the air from the line when starting with a new tank. Check your fuel tank for proper fuel level, if it is too low the liquid inside will not provide enough vapor for proper operation.

How much ventilation do I need to safely run my heater?
Provide a fresh air opening in the heated space of at least 3 square feet (2,800 sq. cm) for each 100,000 BTUs of heater output. For example, the MH-18-PCH (18,000 BTUs) will require:

• a two-car garage door open 6 inches, or
• a single-car garage door open 9 inches, or
• two 32 inch wide windows to be open 15 inches.

Can I use this heater indoors?
Never use this heater for indoor residential applications! This heater is certified for outdoor use only, and indoor use only with adequate ventilation as prescribed in the User’s Manual. It is intended for temporary heating of buildings under construction, alteration or repair.

Can I use a tank larger than 20-lbs.?
The largest propane cylinder that can be used with the PT-18-PCH cabinet heater is 20-lbs. If necessary you can contact your local propane dealer to purchase an additional regulator if you plan on using a larger tank. Please be sure the regulator that comes with the heater is used. Any additional regulators must be connected onto the end of the regulator assembly that is attached to the heater.

The pilot lights but heater will not stay lit.
After the pilot flame is lit hold the Valve Knob down for 30 seconds. This will bleed any air out of the hose. Be sure the heater is on a flat and level surface. When used on un level surface it is possible that the tip-over switch has engaged. Be sure proper fuel level is in your propane tank.

Propane Convection Heater

How long is my warranty?
All of our propane and natural gas heater units come with a limited one-year warranty.

Do I need electricity to operate my LPC Heater?
No, electricity is not needed to operate the LPC Heater.

Can I hook up a thermostat to my LPC Heater?
No, external thermostats cannot be used to operate the LPC heater.

Where can I find my model number?
The model number is found on the front of the base. It is also located on the outside of the heater’s carton by the UPC.

Where can I find my serial number?
The serial number is found on the front of the base.

Can I use a longer hose?
We do not recommend switching the hose that came with the LPC Heater with a longer hose.

The heater runs for about 15 minutes, then shuts off.
The tank may be low on fuel, too small for the heater.

I have a full tank, but the colder it gets the less heat I am receiving.
In general, liquid propane is always trying to become a gas and escape the tank. (It boils at –44°F, unless it is under pressure). When the air surrounding the tank is cold, the liquid propane is less willing to become a gas, thus lowering the pressure. Basically, a full tank in 70°F will exert a lot more pressure than a full tank in 30°F. Ambient temperature outside the tank determines the pressure of the propane, as long as you have some liquid inside the tank and the liquid does not exceed 80% of the tank (which explains why you never receive a full tank of liquid propane).

How long will my heater run on a 100-lb. cylinder?
80V: 36 hours, 200V: 31 hours

Can this heater be used indoors?
Never use this heater for indoor residential applications, where people dwell! This heater is certified for outdoor use only, and indoor use only with adequate ventilation as prescribed in the User’s Manual. It is intended for temporary heating of buildings under construction, alteration or repair.

The pilot will light, but goes out as soon as I release the knob.
When lighting for the first time, continue pressing in the knob for 30 seconds to ensure all the air is out of the pilot line. This will also give the thermocouple enough time to properly heat up to allow the valve to open and the heater to work

How can I convert gallons to cubic feet?
To convert gallons to cubic feet, simply multiply it by 36.28 (60°F at sea level). This factor may vary depending on altitude, temperature and meter type.

How much pressure will I receive from my propane tank on a cold day?
Vapor pressure (PSI) is determined by the ambient temperature. Please see our Propane Vapor Pressure Chart:

Temp (°F)	Vapor Pressure (PSI)
-30°	6.8
-20°	11.5
-10°	17.5
0°	24.5
10°	34
20°	42
30°	53
40°	65
50°	78
60°	93
70°	110
80°	128
90°	150
100°	177
110°	204

(Propane boils at –44°F)