SPACE HEATERS

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Use of Non-Approved space heaters
is
FORBIDDEN!

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 OUTLINE

1. Physiology of a Space Heater

2. What does “approved” mean?
3. “Approved” Space Heaters
4. Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation
5. Fire and Fuel Safety
6. PMCS
7. Questions from the field
8. Resources

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 Physiology of Space Heaters

To fully understand the hazards of a space

heater, we need to understand how it works.

A military space heater uses burning fuel to

produce heat for living and working spaces in
a field environment.

Fuel is introduced into a burn chamber along

with fresh air, ignited, and the exhaust is
vented away to the exterior of the space being
occupied.

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 Physiology of Space Heaters

As we remember from our 4th grade

science class, to make fire, we
require 3 things,
Fuel
• Fuel,
• Oxygen,
• Ignition Source

Ignition Oxygen
Source

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Physiology of Space Heaters

Fuel

1. Oxygen and fuel

enter the stove
Oxygen

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 Physiology of Space Heaters

Fuel

1. Oxygen and fuel

enter the stove
Ignition Oxygen
Source
2. The mixture is ignited and the combustion
products (exhaust) is vented away
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 Physiology of Space Heaters

3. Heat
radiates and
Fuel
warms the
area

1. Oxygen and fuel

enter the stove
Ignition Oxygen
Source
2. The mixture is ignited and the combustion
products (exhaust) is vented away
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 Physiology of Space Heaters

3. Heat
radiates and
NOTE:theThe Fuel container as well Fuel
warms
as the exhaust vent opening must
area
be located outside of the shelter!
The exhaust vent opening must
also be higher then the shelter 1. Oxygen and fuel
roof peak to ensure exhaust is enter the stove
drawn out. Oxygen

2. The mixture is ignited and the

exhaust is vented away
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What does “approved” mean?

1. Un-vented heaters are not authorized

for use by any unit in the USAREUR
area of operation.
2. Vented commercial off-the-shelf (COTS)
and electric heaters may be authorized
if they are approved by a reputable
national standards organization -
Underwriters Laboratories (UL),
American National Standards Institute
(ANSI), International Standards
Organization (ISO)) and are used
outside tents and structures.
3. Any space heater belonging to the
family of space heaters (FOSH).

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 Approved Space Heaters

Family of Space Heaters (FOSH)

Space Heater, Space Heater, Space Heater, Space Heater,

Small SHS Arctic SHA Radiant SHR, Convective SHC
NSN: 4520-01-478-9207 NSN: 4520-01-444-2375 NSN: 4520-01-431-8927
H-45
NSN: 4520-01-329-3451

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 Approved Space Heaters

Space Heater Small (SHS)

Capabilities: Provides heated air to safely and efficiently warm soldiers

operating in basic, cold, and extreme cold environments. Provides new
capability for heating smaller tents (4man or less).
Description: SHS is a lightweight, portable, multi-fueled, non-powered
heater intended to heat the 4 man Soldier Crew Tent. Provides a maximum
heat output of 12K BTU with a high/low adjustment capability.
Burns liquid (JP-8, JP-5, DF-1, DF-2, DF-A)
fuels. Integral fuel tank eliminates the need
for fuel can, fuel can stand, gravity feed
adapter, hoses and fittings.
Power requirements: None.
Size: 16”L x 8.5”W X 14”H
Weight: 20 lbs
Cost: $400 (estimated)
NSN: 4520-01-478-9207

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 Approved Space Heaters

Space Heater Arctic (SHA)

Capabilities: Provides heated air (radiant and natural convective) to safely

and efficiently warm soldiers operating in basic, cold, and extreme cold
environments. Replaces antiquated, gasoline burning M-50 Yukon Heater.
Description: SHA is a lightweight, portable, multi-fueled, non-powered heater
intended to heat five and ten man arctic tents. Provides a maximum heat
output of 28K BTU with a high/low adjustment capability. Burns liquid (JP-8,
JP-5, DF-1, DF-2, DF-A) and solid (coal & wood) fuels.
Power requirements: None.
Size: 17”L x 9”W X 17”H
Weight: 41 lbs
Cost: $735
NSN: 4520-01-444-2375

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 Approved Space Heaters

Space Heater Convective (SHC)

Capabilities: 35K BTU thermoelectric heater provides forced hot air

circulation for shelters without the need for a field generator – generates its
own power and recharges batteries. Automatic start and temperature control
Description: Delivers clean, breathable heat to e.g., Modular Command Post
System, TOCs. Converts waste heat into electrical energy, which is used to
power the blowers, pumps, ignition system, safety system, and control
devices, and recharges its own starting battery
Power requirements: None.
Size: 40”x14”x18”; 6.1 ft3
Weight: 74 lbs
Cost: $6-8,000 (estimated)
NSN: 4520-01-431-8927

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 Approved Space Heaters

H-45, Space Heater Radiant, Large (SHR)

Capabilities: Provides heated air to safely and efficiently warm soldiers

operating in basic, cold, and extreme cold environments. Replaces
antiquated M-41 heater that had severe operational and safety deficiencies.
Description: H-45 space heater is a 45K BTU heater
intended to heat the General Purpose and TEMPER
tents. Operates without use of electrical power; burns
liquid (JP-8, JP-5, JP-4, DF-1, DF-2, DF-A, gasoline)
and solid (coal & wood) fuels.
Power Requirements: None.
Size: 18”Dia X 24”H
Weight: 67 lbs
Cost: $500
NSN: 4520-01-329-3451

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 Approved Space Heaters

Thermal Electric Fan (TEF)

Capabilities: Circulates heated air inside all military tents to improve habitability
conditions and significantly reduce fuel usage by generating its own electrical
power.
Description: TEF is a silent, compact, rugged fan unit placed on top of any
military tent heater. A built-in thermoelectric module converts heat from the top
surface of heater into electricity to power the
450 CFM TEF. The TEF moves heated air
around the tent to provide a more even heat
distribution throughout the entire shelter.
Power requirements: None.
Size: 14”Dia; 10”H
Weight: 12 lbs
Cost: $500
NSN: 4520-01-457-2790

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 Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation

Carbon Monoxide (known by the chemical symbol CO) is a

colorless and practically odorless gas. It is poisonous to
people and animals, because it displaces oxygen in the
blood. It is produced by the incomplete burning of solid,
liquid, and gaseous fuels. Appliances fueled with natural
gas, liquefied petroleum (LP gas), oil, kerosene, coal, or
wood may produce CO. Burning charcoal produces CO.
Running cars produce CO.

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 Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation

Normal oxygenation of the tetrameric

(ie. 4 subunits) hemoglobin molecule.
As it goes from (deoxy)hemoglobin to
oxyhemoglobin the color changes from
blue, as in venous blood, then to pink,
as in arterial blood.

Here carbon monoxide (CO) enters the

picture, and through its very high affinity
for hemoglobin, displaces the oxygen from
the hemoglobin. This prevents oxygen
being carried to the tissues and organs of
the body. Carboxyhemoglobin is reddish in
color.
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 Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation
Oxygen is carried from the lungs
by the blood hemoglobin to the
tissues, here the beating heart is
shown, and normal healthy
oxidative metabolism goes on.

During Carbon Monoxide poisoning,

CO is carried from the lungs by the
blood hemoglobin to the tissues,
preventing oxygen from being carried,
and blocking normal oxidative
metabolism. Note how slowly and
weakly the heart is beating, since it is
starved for oxygen (i.e.. blue in color).

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Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation

All of these items “Burn” some type of fuel!

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 Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation

The first symptom* of carbon monoxide poisoning is

usually a tightness across the forehead, followed by
headache and pounding of the heart.

A positive sign* of progressive carbon monoxide

poisoning is if the victim's face becomes extremely red.
Weariness, dizziness, and mental changes may also
occur.

However, if the carbon monoxide is very concentrated,

the victim may pass out without feeling any of these
symptom.

* A symptom is something YOU feel, a sign is something you SEE.

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 Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation

The following is recommended for

victims of carbon monoxide poisoning:
•Remove victim away from contaminated area into fresh
air and loosen clothing.
•Give artificial respiration or CPR, as appropriate.
•If oxygen is available, give it to the victim by using a face
mask.
•Seek medical attention immediately.
•Keep victim resting.

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 Carbon Monoxide and Asphyxiation

If the victim was severely exposed to carbon monoxide,

symptoms may occur days, or even weeks later, even if
the victim at first appears to have fully recovered.

Delayed symptoms include

visual defects (blurry vision,
or loss of sight), dizziness,
profound changes in emotions
and will power, as well as
mental changes (depression).

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 Fire and Fuel Safety

Do not use unauthorized fuels! Use of unauthorized fuel

may result in fire/explosion!
Tent exhaust opening closure flap must be rolled and
tied securely. Tent may catch fire if hot stack assembly
contacts the flap.
Poorly fitted stack sections may allow the hot stack to
fall on tent and start a fire, or deadly carbon monoxide to
leak into tent. Ensure sections seat together fully.

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 Fire and Fuel Safety

Heat or sparks from stack assembly could ignite fuel

supply. Set up fuel supply on a clear site seven feet
(approx. 2.5 meters) from tent and away from flame
sources.
If fuel flow control valve assembly is improperly
positioned or if bracket is bent, a fuel overflow could
occur inside burner shell and cause a fire or explosion.

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 Fire and Fuel Safety

For safe operation, be sure to allow at least one (2) feet

(61 cm) of space between the heater and the tent wall.
Never relight a extinguished flame while the heater is
hot. Be sure to allow the heater to cool completely
before attempting to relight. Do not attempt to replenish
the fuel supply while the heater is in operation. Be
certain that there is no open flame in the vicinity of liquid
fuel.

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 Fire and Fuel Safety

When operating the heater in solid fuel mode (wood), a

buildup of creosote can accumulate on the inside surface
of the stack assembly that may result in a fire inside the
stack. To prevent creosote buildup when operating with
solid fuel, the stack assembly should be cleaned daily.
Failure to do so may result in a fire causing severe injury
or death.

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 Fire and Fuel Safety

Gasoline, JP-4, Used Motor Oil, Solvents or other

unauthorized fuels should NOT be used under any
circumstance. Only approved liquid and solid fuels
may be used. Using unauthorized fuels will create a fire
danger and potential for explosion.

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 Fire and Fuel Safety

Do not attempt to handle or perform services on a space

heater that has recently been in operation.
Let the space heater cool down before performing these
procedures to avoid the possibility of serious burns.

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 Fire and Fuel Safety

Severe injury may occur to personnel handling metal

parts without protective gloves when temperatures are
below freezing. Skin may freeze upon contact and tear
from the flesh.
Do not allow fuel to come in contact with bare skin.
Even though fuel does not freeze, it is extremely cold
and will burn exposed skin on contact. Wear protective
gloves whenever handling or working with liquid fuel.
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 Preventive Maintenance Checks & Services

As with all equipment, By-The-Book PMCS is

necessary to maintain your space heater in a high
state of safe and ready C-1 operational status.

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 Preventive Maintenance Checks & Services

Any idea who this is?

Before really does mean BEFORE!

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 Preventive Maintenance Checks & Services

All metal heater components should be wiped down with a

rag dampened with a light machine oil or WD-40 before
storage or after cleaning to prevent rust.

Proper cleaning is an integral part of maintenance. It will

help prevent possible problems in the future, so make it a
habit to clean your space heaters whenever necessary.
The heater frame interior can be cleaned with a rag; the
exterior can be cleaned with a brush. Wipe down
all hoses with a rag. Make sure that all connectors are
free of debris and that they work freely.

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 Questions from the field

QUESTION: I have a 6 man crew tent (LIN T50975)

and have been ordered to find a non Yukon heater to
heat it....what is the right answer????

ANSWER: The Heater you need is

Space Heater Artic NSN 4520-01-444-2375.

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 Questions from the field

QUESTION: Trying to locate the TM number for space

radiant heater NSN 4520-00-540-0557

ANSWER: The TM for space heater, NSN 4520-00-540-

0557 is TM 5-4520-235-13. This TM can be accessed at
our ETM website. Since the TM is public release, the
only thing required is the correct software.

http://www.logsa.army.mil/

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 Questions from the field

QUESTION: What is the standard heater for the

Army Crew tent????

ANSWER: For the Soldier Crew Tent you should

use the Space Heater Small, NSN: 4520-01-478-9207.
The dimensions are 16” L x 9” W x 14” H and its 32
lbs with 12,000 BTUH. The cost is $600 including all
accessories. It is designed to provide heat for the
Soldier Crew Tent (5-man tent) and other small
tentage with floor area between 80 and 100 square
feet. Operates without the use of electrical power
and can burn all types of liquid fuel (DF-2, DF-1, DF-
A, JP-5, JP-8).

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 Questions from the field

QUESTION: we need the NSN for these kerosene

heaters, Corona portable kerosene heater 23-dk.
we have no other info on them, and our cg is
demanding we get rid of these heater.

ANSWER: Sir, we cannot identify the heater as

described as above. Un-vented Kerosene heaters,
as a general rule are not authorized for use.

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 Questions from the field

QUESTION: I know it is common knowledge not to

use metal fuel cans with our Heater, Space, Radiant,
Large, tent stoves, but we are in a jam because we
only have plastic cans. The plastic cans are not
sealing right. My question is, can we use metal cans
and if we can't, where can I get that in writing?

ANSWER: TB 43-PS-539, page 49 says that as of 1

Oct 96 only plastic fuel cans are authorized
according to United Nations and Department of
Transportation rules. There are two 5-gal plastic
cans available, sand colored NSN 7240-01-337-5268,
and olive drab colored NSN 7240-01-337-5269.

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 Questions from the field

QUESTION: Need info on Heater, Space NSN 4520-00-

927-4214. Is this heater safe to use. I know it has been
replaced by a different stock number (3451).

ANSWER: That NSN has been replaced by 4520-01-

329-3451. The old heater is very dangerous in use, the
prime fuel to be used is MOGAS, it will run on JP8 but
very poorly. The unit should turn them in and order
NSN 4520-01-329-3451 the direct replacement as shown
in FEDLOG.

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 Questions from the field

QUESTION: My platoon
sergeant told me I cold not
operate my space heater
until I completed the proper
training, is this true? After
all, it’s just a heater!

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Questions from the field

Your platoon sergeant is one smart

cookie! Every piece of equipment
in the army inventory has the
potential, if used without knowing
the hazards, to kill or injure.

ANSWER: Not only is it common

sense, but training is required by
regulation. AE Pam 385-15,
section 35 assists commanders in
implementing safety guidance for
use and training of space heaters.
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 Resources
http://www.logsa.army.mil/pub/psissues/PS_599.pdf

PS Magazine
It’s your resource,
Use It!
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Look in these publications
for more information
❖AE Pam 385-15
Leader’s Operational
Accident Prevention Guide
❖TM 10-4520-261-12&P
Space Heater Arctic
❖TM 10-4520-263-12&P
Space Heater Small
❖TM 9-4520-257-12&P
Space Heater Radiant Large
❖TM 10-4520-262-12&P
Space Heater Convective

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 Resources

For More Information

Contact your Unit Safety Officer/NCO

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