How to Build a Stand for a Propane Heater

Propane heaters make good portable heat sources for outdoor events, parties and late-night star-gazing sessions. The archetypal propane heater consists of a small- to medium-size propane tank with a heat distribution top attached to it on the top. These heaters require significant support to maintain an upright position. This support is crucial because a toppled propane heater poses a real fire risk because of exposed heating elements. Older propane heating units are a particular risk and must be supported with additional security. A reliable and easy-to-assemble heater stand can be constructed using only 2-by-4 inch boards.

4 2-by-4 boards, 18-inch
Drill
Wood drill bits
Wood screws, 3-inch
Tape measure
Wood board, 1/8-inch
Saw
Wood screws, 1-inch

Instructions

- 1
  Set the propane heater on top of its base and set the base upright on the working surface. Shut the heater off. Position four 18-inch 2-by-4 boards around the base. Arrange the boards resting on their long, thin edges. Set the faces of the boards against the heater.
- 2
  Adjust the spacing of the boards so they are even, with part of each board forming a small box around the propane heater and the other part sticking out in all four directions to stabilize the heater.
- 3
  Drill two holes through the outside surface of each board and into the ends of the board that adjoins it. Attach the boards by screwing 3-inch wood screws into each hole.
- 4
  Remove the frame from the heater. Measure the size of the square frame at the center of the stand. Transfer these measurements to a 1/8-inch thick board. Cut out the boards to fit the measurements. Set the square board on top of the stand so it completely covers the hole. Drill holes every 3 inches through the board and into the stand. Attach the board to the stand with 1-inch wood screws. This is the base of the stand.
- 5
  Flip the stand over and re-insert the heater to use.

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