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BY OXDALE PRODUCTS
If you work in a garage, workshop or any poorly insulated workspace, and you’re new to diesel heaters, it can be a daunting task to get it up and running – especially considering how dangerous an improperly operated one can be. You will have heard that they’re incredibly useful machines to have around in the winter months, but you might not know how to use a diesel heater safely in your workspace.
Let’s be clear. Diesel heaters are straightforward to use once set up, and you’re following safety basics. Once you’ve done this, you will be inseparable from your heater during those harsh winter months. Join us in this beginner’s guide to using a diesel heater.
When you’re arriving at your workshop in the morning on a cold winter’s day, the first thing you want is heat, and quickly. Workshops and garages up and down the UK use diesel heaters to heat their workspaces, and for good reason. They are effective heat supplies for large spaces, such as garages and are also more practical than relying on standard electric heating in some work settings.
In poorly insulated environments, such as garages and workshops, a diesel heater can be a great addition as they provide dependable heat for those working in the area.
The way in which a diesel heater works is very simple. The heater draws fuel from the tank, which is then burned to generate heat. This heat is then distributed in the form of warm air or radiant heat, depending on the type of diesel heater you have. This heat is what warms up the workspace. Controls on the heater allow you to adjust heat output and temperature.
Two common diesel heater types are fan heaters and PTC heaters. They offer different ways of distributing the heat, but the theory behind how they work is very similar.
This guide will outline how you operate a diesel heater safely in your shed, workshop or garage.
To begin, you need to place the heater in a safe position. This means finding a stable, level surface where the heater can remain stationary the whole time. It also needs to be kept well away from flammable materials while also allowing enough clear space around the unit to ensure the heat can circulate properly. Dust, fabric and fuel can all be incredibly dangerous around a diesel heater.
A diesel heater requires sufficient ventilation to work properly. Make sure the unit has space around it to maximise airflow routes. Never run a heater in a fully sealed area and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe indoor use.
Most importantly, ensure your exhaust pipe/tube is properly secured and placed outside your workshop window. This allows dangerous byproduct fumes to be properly ventilated.
Each diesel heater will come with a recommended fuel. It is likely that the machine runs best on that type, but it is worth checking with the manufacturer if that type is unavailable in your area. Be sure to use clean fuel and avoid contamination where possible. Try not to overfill also, as this can be dangerous.
Now you have taken the necessary precautions, start the heater and allow it time to warm up. All diesel heaters will have a start-up cycle that needs to be completed before full usage. Allowing the heater to carry this out in full will help improve the longevity of the components, reducing downtime and money spent on repairs.
Now it has done that, all time for the heater to warm the space gradually.
With the machine sufficiently warmed up, you can now set the temperature according to the size of the workspace. Avoid overheating the area unnecessarily, with steady hearing usually more efficient than constant stop-start use. Taking into account the state of your work environment, including outside temperature and level of insulation, adjust the temperature accordingly.
Once you’re done in your workshop or garage, it is very important that you properly shut down your heater. Allow enough time for the heater to complete the cooling cycle if applicable. Do not attempt to move or store the heater until it has properly cooled. Also, check that the heater is fully off after use. Despite being turned off, the heater can still be hot enough to be unsafe, so allow ample time for cooling.
There are a range of things you can do to improve safety while using, increase performance efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of the heater. We’ve gathered the best practices for using a diesel heater in your workshop or garage.
When you’re new to learning how to use a diesel heater, it is only natural to make a mistake or two if you’ve not properly researched the process beforehand. We’ve gathered some of the most common mistakes made by beginners in the hope that you avoid them.
Explore our wide range of diesel heaters available for purchase here at Oxdale Products. We offer industry-leading Airrex diesel heaters, perfect for small and large workspaces such as workshops and garages. For more information and assistance in choosing the right heater for your space, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
You can use a diesel heater in a garage when used correctly and safely. Proper ventilation is crucial, and it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Absolutely, yes. Diesel heaters require proper ventilation, as this is what helps ensure safe use.
The correct fuel for your diesel heater depends on the model. Consult your manufacturer’s guide for more information.
Diesel heaters are designed for sustained use when properly operated. However, the run time depends on the model, the space, fuel supply and operating guidance.
Your diesel heater maintenance should include regular checks after every use, using clean fuel, keeping the unit clean, and following servicing guidance.
