I'm going to be installing a Wave 8 catalytic heater in my fifth wheel and am aware of concerns and cautions concerning oxygen depletion, moisture condensation, propane leaks, and the need to protect the catalyst pad from dust. The heater will be portable, that is not attached to a wall. I have questions in three areas:1) I would supply propane to the heater via a flexible hose. I'd like to have a quick connect fitting at each end of the hose. Is there any reason this connection method is not a good idea? Is there one type or brand of quick connect fitting that is best - that is, more durable or less prone to leaking? Is there one type or brand of propane supply hose that is best - more flexible, resistant to damage?2) Can the heater be moved when it is on? Is there a grab handle on it of some sort?3) Any vital piece of information about catalytic heaters that I need to know?Thanks for all replies.

One thing I would suggest would be a shutoff valve in addition to the quick release fitting.

Myself I would verify with the fittings manufacturer that the quick connect fittings are rated for INDOOR use. If they say no, oh well, that's that.My Olympian gets way too hot to grab a hold of. Not flaming hot but I cannot tolerate 150 degree metal. You'll need to rivet on your own handles.I made an aluminum tip-proof pad for the base that extends out an inch and a half. Sixteen gauge aluminum riveted to the case. It really helps stability.A vinyl cover is the best way to protect the pad from dust when in storage.

If it were me I would permanently mount the heater. It could be a simple install to a cabinet door much like these GOOGLE IMAGES...This install includes flexible propane connections as well as an exhaust tube going to the outside wall...As you can see this would not take up much of your precious room inside the Fifth Wheel...Being portable like you are suggesting I don't think will have an exhaust to the outside that you really need to have... Connecting up a PVC type exhaust venting system sitting out in the open hallway like shown in this google image sure would not be to my liking.These type heaters are very dangerous in concealed locations requiring not only the need for oxygen is absolute but any Carbon Monoxide removed. Certainly don't want to wake up dead...Just food for thought presented here - thinking out loud only...Roy Ken

Hi,I'd start with the Platinum Cat. It has a chimney and a thermostat.

we have a wave 8we have the legs for it, and use a huge vynl shopping bag as a cover when not in useNO handle , I have a short Bungee hung from the mounting holes on the backso i can lift it and turn it a littlebut "someday" im going to make a permanent insulated handle for itare hose is fixed and we have a shut off valve were it is attached to LP lineI would only use the approved GAS quick connect fittings (if available)compressed air fittings are NOT safe for this use

Catalytic Heater Install | Good Sam Community

RoyB
Explorer II
Dec 19, 2014
If it were me I would permanently mount the heater. It could be a simple install to a cabinet door much like these GOOGLE IMAGES...

This install includes flexible propane connections as well as an exhaust tube going to the outside wall...

As you can see this would not take up much of your precious room inside the Fifth Wheel...

Being portable like you are suggesting I don't think will have an exhaust to the outside that you really need to have... Connecting up a PVC type exhaust venting system sitting out in the open hallway like shown in this google image sure would not be to my liking.

These type heaters are very dangerous in concealed locations requiring not only the need for oxygen is absolute but any Carbon Monoxide removed. Certainly don't want to wake up dead...

Just food for thought presented here - thinking out loud only...
Roy Ken
MEXICOWANDERER
Explorer
Dec 19, 2014
Myself I would verify with the fittings manufacturer that the quick connect fittings are rated for INDOOR use. If they say no, oh well, that's that.

My Olympian gets way too hot to grab a hold of. Not flaming hot but I cannot tolerate 150 degree metal. You'll need to rivet on your own handles.

I made an aluminum tip-proof pad for the base that extends out an inch and a half. Sixteen gauge aluminum riveted to the case. It really helps stability.

A vinyl cover is the best way to protect the pad from dust when in storage.
powderman426
Explorer
Dec 19, 2014
One thing I would suggest would be a shutoff valve in addition to the quick release fitting.

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