FAQ
TL;DR: One 11 kg LPG bottle can run a catalytic heater for ≈55 h [Elektroda, donpassatos, post #5668044]; “Ventilation must provide at least one full air exchange per hour” [Elektroda, serwisant73, post #5487608] Catalytic stoves give quiet, flameless heat but add moisture, consume oxygen and need proper safety checks.
Why it matters: This FAQ helps DIY-ers decide if a catalytic gas stove is a safe, cost-effective option for spot heating bedrooms, garages or workshops.
Quick Facts
• Runtime: 11 kg LPG → ~55 h on low (≈0.2 kg/h) [Elektroda, donpassatos, post #5668044]
• Catalyst surface temperature: about 300 °C [Elektroda, donpassatos, post #5668044]
• Minimum ventilation: ≥1 air change per hour [Elektroda, serwisant73, post #5487608]
• CO exposure limit: 50 ppm over 8 h (OSHA) [OSHA, 2023]
• Typical LPG energy cost: 0.25 €/kWh vs night-rate electricity 0.25 €/kWh [Eurostat, 2022]
Are catalytic gas stoves safe to use in a bedroom?
Only with constant ventilation and a working thermocouple. Combustion consumes oxygen and emits CO₂ and trace CO. A CO alarm is strongly advised [Elektroda, William Bonawentura, #5487330]. OSHA caps CO at 50 ppm over 8 h [OSHA, 2023].
How much oxygen does a catalytic heater use and how do I ventilate?
One stove burning 0.2 kg/h LPG consumes ≈0.5 m³/h oxygen. Provide at least one full room air change per hour via open vent or tilted window [Elektroda, serwisant73, post #5487608]
What runtime can I expect from a 11 kg cylinder?
Users report one cylinder lasting 7 days at 8–10 h daily on low, equal to about 55 operating hours [Elektroda, donpassatos, post #5668044] Heavy use on level III cuts runtime by roughly 40 % [Elektroda, donpassatos, post #10447474]
Is LPG cheaper than electric heaters for spot heating?
At 13.6 kWh/kg, 11 kg LPG delivers ≈150 kWh. At 0.25 €/kWh, cost equals €37.5, similar to night-rate electricity (€0.25 €/kWh) [Eurostat, 2022]. With extra ventilation heat loss, electric can edge cheaper [Elektroda, William Bonawentura, #5490858].
Why does my stove smell of gas or shoot flames?
Likely causes: clogged catalyst, missing pressure reducer, or leaking connections. Missing reducer caused flame bursts in a 10-year-old Agni unit [Elektroda, desalutant, post #5989174] Replace the reducer and check joints with soapy water before relighting.
How do I ignite an Agni catalytic stove correctly?
- Open cylinder valve.
- Press main knob fully, hold 20 s to prime gas, then press piezo spark once.
- Keep knob depressed 20 s more; release slowly and set to Level I. This avoids flame-out noted by users [Elektroda, Lubiany1100, post #10450655]
The flame dies when I release the button—what’s wrong?
A failed thermocouple can’t hold the safety valve open. Clean or replace it; universal probes cost PLN 30–50 [Elektroda, piracik, post #10469027] Edge-case: cracked capillary makes replacement mandatory.
How do I unclog a burner nozzle?
Three-step fix:
- Disconnect gas and remove burner tray.
- Blow compressed air through the brass-glass nozzle; use a fine pin only if air fails.
- Reassemble and leak-test.
This restored ignition in a 10-year-stored Agni [Elektroda, Szymon Tarnowski, #12796503].
Does long storage ruin the catalyst?
Not necessarily. A unit stored 10 years in an attic lit instantly [Elektroda, piracik, post #12758454] Moist, dusty basements accelerate clogging; inspect surface for soot before use.
Do all portable LPG heaters have CO/CO₂ sensors?
No. Budget models rely solely on the thermocouple. Higher-end units add an ODS sensor that cuts gas at ~1.5 % CO₂ [DecusHome, 2023].
What temperature does the catalyst reach and is it a burn hazard?
Surface runs near 300 °C, hot enough to ignite paper [Elektroda, donpassatos, post #5668044] Keep at least 50 cm clearance and use child guards.
Can a fan improve room heating?
Yes. Placing a small desk fan behind the stove improved perceived warmth in a garage test [Elektroda, gkuba911, post #10450309] Aim airflow across the catalyst, not directly at the flame monitor.
What is a pressure reducer and why is it mandatory?
The reducer drops cylinder pressure from up to 8 bar to 30 mbar steady flow. Without it, gas jets violently, causing flare-ups and automatic shutdowns [Elektroda, Bobbo, post #6249717]
Is the Ravanson LD-168N a catalytic model?
No public spec confirms a catalytic mat; it uses ceramic radiant panels. Ceramic types glow red and have higher surface temperatures but similar ventilation needs [Manufacturer sheet, 2021].
