FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a general question about our heaters or industrial fans? 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.
Heating
Kerosene/Diesel Forced Air Torpedo Heaters
How long is your warranty?
All of our kerosene heater units come with a limited one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
How do I maintain my forced air heater?
Where can I take my heater to be serviced?
My heater runs for a short period of time then shuts off?
Try turning up your air pressure in 0.5 PSI increments, and try to start again. Also, be sure, after running a couple minutes, that the nose cone is cherry red without and flames coming out. If it not cherry red, turn up your air pressure 0.5 PSI or until the nose cone glows red. If the heater is running at the 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. Always ensure that you never set the pressure higher than the stated setting in the manual.
Where can I find my model number?
The model number can be found on the upper shell of the heater (below the brand name), and also 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 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, including K-1 kerosene, JP8/Jet A, #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. Our heaters will not run on biodiesel.
How do I adjust the pump pressure?
What are the minimum clearances required from combustibles?
| Model | Top | Sides | Format |
| MH-45-KFA | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 8 ft. |
| MH-80T-KFA | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 8 ft. |
| MH-140T-KFA | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 8 ft. |
| MH-190T-KFA | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 8 ft. |
| MH-215T-KFA | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 10 ft. |
If the flame goes out, will fuel continue to pump?
The heaters 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 MH-140T-KFA (140,000 BTUs/Hr) heater will require:
- A two car garage door open 6 inches, or
- A single-car garage door opens 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, K-1 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?
This list states the pump pressure for each model:
- 45-KFA: 3.0 PSI
- 80-KFA: 3.8 PSI
- 140-KFA: 6.6 PSI
- 190-KFA: 8.5 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 drive to tighten the (6) screws holding the rotor in. Loosen the screws and inspect the rotor and blades. The vanes 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 vane 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.
How long will my heater run on a tank of fuel?
- 45-KFA: 14 Hours
- 80T-KFA: 9 Hours
- 140T-KFA: 10 Hours
- 190T-KFA: 9 Hours
- 215T-KFA: 8 Hours
This information is based on a full tank of fuel and running the thermostat in the highest setting (those that are equipped with a thermostat).
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?
Shop parts
or call us at 800-641-6996.
SIlentDrive® Kerosene/Diesel Forced Air Torpedo Heaters
How long is my warranty?
All of our kerosene heater units come with a limited one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
Where can I take my heater to be serviced?
Where can I find my model number?
The model number can either be found on the side 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 is found on the side cover.
Can I use another fuel besides kerosene?
Our kerosene forced-air heaters will run on multiple fuels such as K-1 kerosene, Jet A, #1 fuel oil, or #1 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 my heater run on Bio-Diesel?
No, this heater is not designed nor approved to run on bio-diesel.
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.
Can I mix diesel fuel and kerosene together?
In extreme temperatures, a blend of 70% diesel and 30% kerosene can be mixed to prevent gelling.
What are the minimum clearances required from combustibles?
| Model | Top | Sides | Front |
| 220SDR | 4ft. | 4 ft. | 8 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 electrica current and the heater will shut off.
The power is turned off but the fan still runs.
This heater must cycle through a “Cool-Down Cycle” 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.
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 the fuel bowl 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, and indoor use is only permitted 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.
The 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.
How long will my heater run on a tank of fuel?
220SDR: 8 hour run time on a full tank of fuel on high. Using the thermostat will increase the run time significantly.
What is the fuel pressure supposed to be on the 220SDR heater?
The fuel pressure should be set at 110 PSI.
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 1000,000 BTU/Hr of heater output. For example, a 220SDR (220,000 BTUs/Hr) heater requires the following fresh air openings:
- A two-car garage door open 12 inches, or
- A single-car garage door open 18 inches, or
- Two 32 inch wide windows to be open 18 inches.
SIlentDrive® Kerosene/Diesel Radiant Heaters
How long is my warranty?
All of our kerosene heater units come with a limited one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
Where can I take my heater to be serviced?
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 is found on 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 my heater run on Bio-diesel?
No, this heater is not designed nor approved to run on bio-diesel or farm diesel (with the red dye).
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.
Can I mix diesel fuel and kerosene together?
In cold temperatures, a blend of 70% diesel and 30% kerosene can be used to prevent gelling.
How do I adjust the pump pressure?
What are the minimum clearances required from combustibles?
| Model | Top | Sides | Front |
| 80 OFR | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 8 ft. |
| 125 OFR | 6 ft. | 6 ft. | 8 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 Cycle” in which the fan continues to run 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 may restart when reapplying power. If the heater does not restart but the fan is running when it was 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 t0 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 finish 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: 7-hour run time on a full tank of fuel
- 125OFR: 20-hour run time on a full tank of fuel
What is the fuel pressure supposed to be on the 80OFR heater?
The fuel pressure should be set at 112 PSI.
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 MH-125-OFR (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 Torpedo 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 375,000 BTU propane forced air heater and a 150,000 BTU natural gas forced air heater, both with built- in thermostats.
How long is my warranty?
All of our propane and natural gas heater units come with a limited one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
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 propane forced air heater with a longer hose. The hose included is designed specifically for use with this product only. Should your hose assembly fail or prove defective, contact our customer service department at 800-641-6996 or online at www.shoppct.com for a replacement.
The heater runs for about 15 minutes then shuts off.
The fuel tank may be low on fuel or the cylinder may be too small for the heater, not providing enough vapor to run on such a large heater. Another possibility is the inlet or outlet of the heater is being restricted and causing the high temperature switch to activate prematurely. The 40K and 60K heaters can be used on a 20-pound propane tank. The 125K and 150K heaters are designed to run on a 100-pound 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 PT-60V-GFA, PT-125V-GFA, and PT-150V-GFA all contain what is called “continuous electronic ignition,” so this is perfectly normal.
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) |
|
|
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 degrees F)
How do I order parts for my heater?
Shop parts
or call us at 800-641-6996.
- A two car garage door open 6 inches, or
- A two car garage door open 9 inches, or
- Two 32 inch wide windows to be open 15 inches
Propane Convection Heaters
Do I need electricity to operate my convection heater?
Can I hook up a thermostat to my convection heater?
Where can I find my model number?
How long is my warranty?
Where can I find my serial number?
Can I use a longer hose?
What size propane tank is needed for this heater?
The heater runs for about 15 minutes then shuts off.
I have a full tank, but the colder it gets, the less heat I am receiving.
How long will my heater run on a 100-pound cylinder?
- 80V: 36 hours
- 200V: 31 hours
Can this heater be used indoors?
The pilot will light, but it goes out as soon as I release the knob.
How can I convert gallons to cubic feet?
Portable Propane Cabinet Heaters
Can I use a longer hose?
I have a full tank, but the colder it gets, the less heat I am receiving.
Where can I find my serial number?
The middle brick is only burning half way. What can I do?
I just hooked up my propane tank for the first time, and the pilot will not light.
How long is my warranty?
How do I order parts for my heater?
Shop parts
How much ventilation do I need to safely run my heater?
- 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?
Can I use a tank larger than 20 lbs?
The pilot lights but heater will not stay lit.
How long will my heater run on a 20-pound propane tank?
- Low: 65 hours
- Medium: 36 hours
- High: 24 hours
Can a thermostat be added to my heater?
How often should that heater be cleaned or have maintenance performed?
Propane Tank Top Space Heaters
How long is my warranty?
Can I use a tank larger than a 20-lb. tank?
What is the smallest size propane tank the tank top can use?
Can I use this heater in my house?
How do I operate my tank top heater?
How do I test for leaks?
How do I order parts for my heater?
Shop parts
What is the function of the tip switch?
Heater will light, but will go out when releasing the plunger on the safety valve.
- 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 on a 20-lb. tank with the MH-16-TTC heater? MH-32-TTC? MH-47-TTC?
- MH-16-TTC: 35 hours on low and 27 on high
- MH-32-TTC: 17 hours on low and 13 on high
- MH-47-TTC: 12 hours on low and 9 on high
I am getting an odor from the heater. Is this normal?
The wind keeps blowing out the heater. Is this normal?
How do I know if the thermocouple is bad or working correctly?
What are the required clearances to combustibles for the heater?
| Top | Sides | Front | Rear |
| 5 ft. | 3 ft. | 5 ft. | 3 ft. |
Cooling
high Capacity Industrial Barrel Fans
Where can I find my model number?
The model number is found on the front hub of the fan, and on the label below the cord wrap.
Where can I find my serial number?
The serial number for the DT series is stamped on the side of the fan in black ink and will be a 10 digit number. The serial number for the DTA series is located on the back of the fan, and will have the prefix ‘DP’ followed by 10 digits.
How long is my warranty?
All of our Portable Air Circulators come with a limited one-year warranty.
Can I use an extension cord?
Yes.
Can I move the fan while blades are in operation?
We do not recommend that the fan be moved during operation. Turn off power to the fan and allow blades to come to a complete stop before repositioning the fan.
How do I order parts for my fan?
Parts can be ordered by contacting us at 800-641-6996.
high Velocity Industrial Barrel Fans
Where can I find my model number?
The model number is found on the front hub of the fan, and on the label below the cord wrap. 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 for the DT series is stamped on the side of the fan in black ink and will be a 10 digit number. The serial number for the DTA series is located on the back of the fan, and will have the prefix ‘DP’ followed by 10 digits.
How long is my warranty?
All of our Portable Air Circulators come with a limited one-year warranty.
Can I use an extension cord?
Yes.
Can I move the fan while blades are in operation?
We do not recommend that the fan be moved during operation. Turn off power to the fan and allow blades to come to a complete stop before repositioning the fan.
How do I order parts for my fan?
Parts can be ordered by contacting us at 800-641-6996.