Buddy Heater filters

[flipper]

Trying to cut down on my use of disposable 1 lbers so I bought the filter, so I could use a hose from my tank. How does one know when a filter is in need of replacing. I know the package says every year but something tell me that a filter needing changing would be more a function of volume of propane run through it than time. Anyone have any insight on this?

Thanks in advance!

[Scott K]

I had put a filter on mine the first year I bought it, then I took it off, and I never had a problem with not having one on it. So I never put another one on.

[flipper]

I got my first buddy heater hopelessly full of dump several years ago and had to scrap it so I plan on using the filters.

[Scott K]

If he furnace still has plenty of pressure to make the flame nice and hot, the filter should still be good.

[ozzie]

I have found that I can usually get 2 seasons on a filter and by the 3 season I have difficulty starting the unit unless I get a new filter.

[harvey lee]

I have never used a filter of any type on my 2 Buddy heater's and have never had any issues.

To be honest' I guess I have always wondered why a filter is even needed.

Maybe I am just lucky with the Buddy.

[cavalierowner]

When I bought a Portable Buddy a few years back, there was some confusion in my mind about needing a filter. So I bought a filter because it was only something like $10 and I figured it couldn't hurt. I change my filter every second or third season, depending on when I think about it. No issues so far.

[Hoey]

Mr Heater recommends a filter on standard hoses and with the oil free hoses, you do not need a filter.

But, but I have the oil free hoses on my cooker/heater sunflowers and they are not working well. They spit and sputter, flame out, or just will not allow gas to flow.

I may be getting moisture in the hoses and it is freezing. I am still working to figure it out. Anyone - any ideas?

[WalleyeBIZ]

No filter, no problems!!

[fish chaser]

i have the big buddy and had it get oil in the lines. it would not keep a pilot flame going. it took quite some time to clean the lines so i will not be without a filter again. as for how long it lasts i suppose once it fills up ill know. better to just have a spare around just in case!!

[09ultra]

I have never used a filter and have had no problems(knock on wood)

[ozzie]

it all depends on the hose you use...but with all the issues people seam to have with the big buddy heater at times I have never really tried to use my heater too often without the filter. I have a basic black mr heater hose that you have to screw on both ends. Good Luck

[Maverick]

I always wondered the same thing. This was my second year on a filter for my big buddy. Went to fire it up and the pilot would light, but as soon as I turned on the heat the pilot would slowly go out. It seemed like it was not getting much gas. I put in a new filter and it worked like it should. To make a long story short, I think the filter will tell you when it needs changing so always have a spare along. Hope this helps.

[Lusid]

Propane in nature is pretty dirty. I think overtime buildup occurs in the lines and gets into your buddy heater. It is just a preventative measure, as it is not a required item.