Revisited – The Ultimate Guide to Temporary Construction Heat

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Unless you live in a perpetually cold environment, working outside on an unheated construction site in the winter is the pits. Unfortunately, shutting down construction projects in the winter typically isn’t an option for anyone. That’s where temporary construction heat comes into play. Combined Energy Services can help!

Both residential and commercial project can benefit from the use of temporary heat throughout the coldest months. Those in the industry know that drywall, spackle and paint have certain minimum temperatures that must be met for the products to finish properly. And let’s face it, everyone is more productive when working in a comfortable environment. CES has not just the propane to meet your needs, but also the equipment.

Temporary heating devices are a vital part of being able to work effectively in cold weather.  However, as a result of poor selection and careless use, injuries and damaging fires occur every year.

If improperly used, temporary heating equipment can lead to burns, fires, explosions, carbon monoxide poisoning, and the creation of oxygen deficient atmospheres.  So, with the winter season upon us, it’s important to review the many types of construction temporary heating tips and devices that are available, and be sure they are used safely. 

There are a variety of devices to choose from: Temporary heat units can be fired either directly or indirectly.  They can be electric or fueled by: (1) LPG / propane, (2) natural gas, (3) liquid fuel: kerosene, fuel oil, some diesel oils or (4) solid fuel: wood, coal, etc.

Solid fuel heaters are the most uncontrollable and therefore most potentially dangerous.  Because of the inherent hazards associated with solid fuel, temporary units cannot be used inside or within 15 feet of any building or structure.  This safety requirement makes their use for most temporary heating situation impractically.

Plan Ahead!

With the winter months upon us, project managers should work with Combined Energy Services experience sales department to discuss their construction plans.

Important Winter Construction Heating Tips:

• Never use a “fueled” heater within 10 feetof any debris piles, temporary enclosures, tarps, combustible materials, or flammable material.
• Maintain a good fresh air supply, to avoid oxygen deficient atmosphere: flames use
• Every heating unit must have a fire extinguisher immediately available.
• The use of temporary heaters in confined spaces is never recommended; when they are used, sufficient ventilation and temperature control must be provided.
• Allow the heater to cool downbefore it is re-fueled.
• Always turn off the gas supplywhen the heater is not in-use.
• Never store used or extra LPG containers inside. Only those in use should be present.
• Temporary heaters should be placed at leastsix feet away from the LP container and not fired toward the container, unless the heater is an approved integrated unit.
• Never manifold more than three 100-pound LPG cylinders together.
• LP cylinders must be securedin the upright position and protected from damage.

Never use LPG below grade level: Be aware that gases such as propane are heavier-than-air, and will settle into any low spots, such as a basement.  If there is no way for them to exit, a spark or flame can ignite and explode the concentration of gas, causing great damage and injuries. 

Temporary heaters are great tools, allowing work to continue in cold and damp weather. But remember, they can be dangerous. Take advantage of these winter construction temporary heating tips. Learn how to operate them, and don’t take them for granted.

Contact CES for details on how you can take advantage of Temporary Construction Heat.