Clarke GRH15 Operation & Maintenance Instructions Manual

PORTABLE GAS RADIANT HEATER

MODEL NO: GRH15

PART NO: 6920018

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE

INSTRUCTIONS

ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS GC1019 - ISS 1

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this CLARKE heater.

This portable gas radiant heater is designed to give safe, efficient and reliable
operation and is for use with Propane Gas only. Propane gas bottles are
readily available from builders merchants or gas suppliers.

The heater intended for drying and the warming of commercial/industrial
buildings where adequate ventilation is provided.

• It must always be operated as prescribed in this manual.

• It is not intended for domestic use or for the heating of habitable areas.

• It is not intended to be used to reach and maintain a certain level of
human thermal comfort within an enclosed space.

• It is not intended to be used in enclosed areas with restricted ventilation.

• It is not for use in areas with high levels of fluctuating drafts.

• It is not intended for warming animals or live stock.

• We recommend the use of a carbon monoxide detector.

As with any equipment, optimum performance will only be achieved if the
correct application and servicing procedures are followed.

Proper combustion depends upon correct air flow and the heater must not be
modified or operated with parts removed or missing. Likewise, safety systems
must not be circumvented or modified in order to operate the heater.

Before attempting to use this product, please read this manual thoroughly and
follow the instructions carefully. In doing so you will ensure the safety of yourself
and that of others around you and you can look forward to your purchase
giving you long and satisfactory service.

GUARANTEE

This product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12
months from the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt which will be
required as proof of purchase.

This guarantee is invalid if the product is found to have been abused or
tampered with in any way, or not used for the purpose for which it was
intended.

Faulty goods should be returned to their place of purchase, no product can
be returned to us without prior permission. This guarantee does not effect your
statutory rights.

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Read and ensure you fully
understand the following precautions
and the hazards associated with this
type of equipment.

1. Check the heater thoroughly for
damage. NEVER operate a
damaged heater.

2. DO NOT modify the heater or
operate a heater which has been
modified.

3. Use only propane gas (LPG).

4. Use only a VAPOUR WITHDRAWAL
propane supply. If there is any
question about vapour with­drawal, ask your propane dealer.

5. Position the propane cylinder
vertically (shut-off valve up).
Secure it from falling or being
knocked over and protect from
damage.

6. Locate propane bottles clear of
the heater and do not direct the
heat toward the bottle(s).

7. IMPORTANT: Use only the hose
and regulator assembly provided
with the heater. Inspect the hose
assembly before each use of the
heater. If there is excessive
abrasion or wear, or hose is cut,
replace with the hose assembly
listed on the parts list before using
the heater.

8. This heater is not to be used for
the heating of habitable areas of
domestic premises. Refer to
national regulations.

9. Position the heater such that it is
not directly exposed to water
spray, rain and/or dripping water

10. This heater is for indoor use only in
well ventilated areas.

11. If at any time, gas odour is
detected, IMMEDIATELY STOP
operation until the source of the
gas has been located & rectified

12. Maintain adequate clearance
from normal combustible material

13. DO NOT place the heater near
combustible materials such as
curtains, furniture etc. Allow at
least 1 metre clearance.

14. Due to the high surface
temperatures, users must observe
sufficient clearance to avoid
burns or clothing ignition.

15. Use only on a firm, level surface.

16. DO NOT use with ductwork. Do
not restrict air circulation.

17. DO NOT move, handle or clean
while hot or burning.

18. Use only in accordance with local
codes of practice.

19. DO NOT apply any torsional stress
to the hose.

20. DO NOT leave the heater un­attended, for example, left on at
night.

21. The heater is designed to heat
enclosed areas larger than such
as workshops. Do not use the
heater for any other function. It is
not suitable for drying clothes or
laundry.

22. Young children must be kept
away unless continuously
supervised.

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FRESH AIR REQUIREMENTS

• DO NOT use in unventilated areas.

• The flow of combustion and ventilation air must not be obstructed.

WARNING: PROVIDE AT LEAST A 3FT2 OPENING OF FRESH, OUTSIDE AIR
WHILST USING THIS HEATER. IF FRESH OUTSIDE AIR VENTILATION IS NOT
PROVIDED, CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING CAN OCCUR.

RISKS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

Even though this heater operates very close to 100 percent combustion
efficiency, it still produces small amounts of carbon monoxide.

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) is toxic.

• Pregnant women, persons with a heart or lung condition, anaemia
or under the influence of alcohol, or those at high altitude, are more
likely to be effected by Carbon Monoxide.

• CO can build up in a confined space and failure to provide
adequate ventilation can be fatal.

The early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:

•headaches

•dizziness

• nausea

• dry mouth or sore throat

• blurred vision

• shortness of breath

• confusion

• loss of consciousness

Should anyone show these symptoms they must GET FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY.
Turn off the heater and have it serviced before using it again.

Be sure to follow all warnings in this manual.

WE RECOMMEND THE USE OF A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR

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IF YOU SMELL GAS

Liquid Propane gas has a man-made
odourant added specifically for detection
of gas leaks.

If a leak occurs you should be able to
smell the gas. Since Propane (LP) is
heavier than air you should smell for the
gas odour near to the floor. ANY GAS
ODOUR requires immediate attention.

1. DO NOTHING that could ignite the
gas. DO NOT operate any electrical
switches. DO NOT unplug any power
supply or extension cables. Do not
light matches or cause any other
source of flame. DO NOT use your
phone.

2. Get everyone out of the building and
away from the area immediately.

3. Close all propane (LP) gas bottle fuel
supply valves.

4. Propane (LP) gas is heavier than air
and may settle in low areas. When you
have reason to suspect a propane
leak, keep out of all low areas.

5. Use your neighbours phone and call
your fire department. DO NOT re-enter
the building or area.

6. Stay out of the building and away
from the area until declared safe by
the firefighters.

7. FINALLY. let the firefighters check for
escaped gas. Have them ventilate
the building and area before you
return. Properly trained service people
must repair any leaks, check for
further leakages and then re-light the
heater for you.

8. IF YOU SMELL EVEN A SMALL
AMOUNT OF GAS, CONTACT
YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT. DO
NOT WAIT!

NO ODOUR DETECTED

1. Some people cannot smell the odour
added to propane (LP). You must
determine if you can smell the
odourant in this fuel.

2. Learn to recognize the odour of
propane (LP) gas. Local propane (LP)
gas dealers will to give you a “scratch
and sniff” pamphlet. Use it to become
familiar with the fuel gas odour.

3. Smoking can decrease your ability to
smell. Being around an odour for a
period of time can affect your
sensitivity to that particular odour.
Odours present in animal confinement
buildings can mask fuel gas odour.

ODOUR FADING

1. The odourant in propane (LP) gas is
colourless and the intensity of its odour
can fade under some circumstances.

2. Propane (LP) gas odour may differ in
intensity at different levels. Since
Propane (LP) gas is heavier than air,
there may be more odour at lower
levels.

3. Always be sensitive to the slightest gas
odour. If you continue to detect any
gas odour, no matter how small, treat
it as a serious leak.

CRITICAL POINTS TO REMEMBER!

1. Propane (LPG) gas has a distinctive
odour. Learn to recognize the odour.

2. A periodic sniff test around the joints;
i.e. hose, connections. etc., is a good
safety practice under any conditions.

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FEATURES OF THE GRH15

Understanding the basic operation of the heater will reinforce the need to
maintain it in top condition at all times whilst always observing the safety
precautions.

The heater comprises of three basic systems:

1. The gas system.

2. The ignition system.

3. The safety control system.

GAS SYSTEM

The gas supply to the heater is by means of a high pressure hose, connected
to a LPG cylinder via a pressure regulator. When the gas shut off valve is
opened, gas will flow to the control valve and finally into the burner.

This heater is designed for use with PROPANE GAS ONLY. Gas bottles are readily
available from builders merchants or gas suppliers etc.

This heater is designed to operate with a minimum 20 pound (9 kg) propane
bottle. Note that less gas is vaporised at lower temperatures. Your local
propane gas dealer will help you select the proper gas supplies.

IGNITION SYSTEM

A Piezo-electric igniter is positioned at the burner head. When the igniter
button is depressed a high intensity spark is generated which ignites the gas.
Heat from the flame is sensed by a thermocouple connected to the control
valve. As the thermocouple heats up, the control valve opens so that after a
short period, the control valve button (see Operation page 10) may be
released and the gas flame is established.

SAFETY CONTROL SYSTEM

Should the flame extinguish for any reason the thermocouple will quickly cool,
causing the control valve to close, shutting off the gas supply.

Additionally, the heater is fitted with a ‘Tip Over Switch’ which operates should
the heater be tilted by more than 35-40 degrees, thereby shutting off the gas
supply.

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INSTALLATION

UNPACKING

Remove the heater from the carton and remove all protective material used
for shipment. Check the heater for possible shipping damage. Should any
damage be apparent, please notify your CLARKE dealer immediately.

ASSEMBLING THE SUPPORT STAND

1. Connect the stand base section to
the upper part and secure with the
wing nut supplied.

LOCATING THE HEATER

Although a ‘tip-over’ switch is fitted, the heater and propane gas cylinder
must both be located on a hard, level surface to minimize the risk of
accidental tipping. The propane gas cylinder should be adequately
restrained if needed. Only operate this heater with the supply cylinder in the

upright position.

This heater must only be used in locations where the potential for damage to
the heater or personal injury (burns), is reduced to a minimum.

The heater must be located where it will not be exposed directly to rain and/or
dripping water.

Use of this heater in a drafty area reduces its efficiency. Wherever possible,
operate in a draft free area.

The heater must always be directed away from the propane gas cylinder.

Position the heater at a safe distance of 1 metre from combustible materials.

The heater must not be used on floors covered in combustible materials.

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GAS CONNECTION

WARNING: PROPANE GAS CYLINDERS MUST BE USED AND STORED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE ‘HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND LIQUEFIED
PETROLEUM GASES REGULATIONS 1972.

WARNING: IF YOU DO NOT FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS EXACTLY, A
FIRE OR EXPLOSION MAY RESULT CAUSING PROPERTY DAMAGE,
PERSONAL INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE.

The hose for connecting the heater to the gas bottle is supplied loose and
must be fitted by the user.

Make the connection to the propane cylinder in a well ventilated area using
the regulator and hose assembly supplied. The gas hose and cylinder must
ALWAYS be positioned behind the heater at the full length of the hose

1. Attach the regulator to the gas cylinder ensuring the cylinder connection is
perfectly clean. Blow out with compressed air if necessary to blast away
any dust or dirt. (Use eye protection when working with compressed air).

2. Remove the protective plug by
unscrewing clockwise.

3. Check the bullnose connection on
the regulator for any visible
damage before connecting to the
cylinder.

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4. Place the regulator on the cylinder
connection and hand tighten by
turning anti-clockwise.

5. Tighten firmly using a gas spanner
(or an adjustable spanner),
continuing in an anti-clockwise
direction.

6. Simply turn the valve hand wheel anti-clockwise when you need to start
the flow of gas. Ensure that you turn the cylinder off when not in use.

7. In order to reduce the risk of icing up when operating for long periods at
maximum capacity, you should use a larger capacity gas bottle.

8. Open the cylinder gas valve and check all gas connections with a soap
and water solution. To check for leaks using soapy water or liquid soap
ONLY. NEVER USE A FLAME.

9. Use a full cylinder wherever possible with good air circulation and no frost
on the cylinders.

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OPERATION

WARNING: BEFORE STARTING THE HEATER YOU MUST ENSURE THAT THE
MINIMUM VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS ARE OBSERVED TO AVOID THE
RISK OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING.

WARNING: THIS HEATER WILL BE HOT DURING NORMAL OPERATION.
AVOID PHYSICAL CONTACT. DO NOT ALLOW CLOTHING OR OTHER
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS TO TOUCH THE HEATER.

FIRST USE

Read these instructions carefully. DO
NOT allow anyone who has not read
the instructions to light, adjust, or
operate this heater.

DO NOT attempt to operate the
heater with any fuel other than LPG
(liquid propane gas).

The heater reaches a very high
temperature and during first use you
may notice an odour coming from
the heater. This is quite normal and
will disperse quickly.

(It is recommended the heater is
initially run outdoors on the first
occasion to enable the odour to
clear).

Set the burner at the required angle
to project the heat forward as shown.

LIGHTING THE HEATER

1. Ensure that the gas is correctly connected and leak free. Turn on the gas
supply at the bottle and at the shut off valve (marked ON/OFF on the
knob).

2. Press and hold the control valve plunger whilst repeatedly pressing the
piezo-electric button until the burner ignites.

• Once the burner ignites, keep the control valve plunger depressed

for 12-15 seconds or until the burner stays lit after it is released.

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WARNING: DO NOT FACE THE HEATER ELEMENT WHEN STARTING - ALWAYS
STAND TO ONE SIDE.

NOTE: If a new gas cylinder has been

connected, it may take time
for the gas line to be purged
of air. Press the Piezo electric
button every 10-15 seconds
until it ignites.

3. Alternatively, hold a lit taper to
the burner face while pressing
and holding the control valve
button. After the burner ignites,
keep the button pressed for 12-15
seconds or until the burner stays lit
after releasing the button.

NOTE: In cases where a long run of

gas supply line has been used,
it may be necessary to bleed
trapped air out of the supply
line before lighting. Open the
shut off valve and listen for the
gas passing through the
heater for a few moments
before operating the igniter and attempting to light the heater. New
installations generally require this.

NOTE: When lighting the burner with a taper, light at the bottom of the

screen, not at the nozzle.

SHUTTING OFF THE HEATER

1. Close the propane gas supply cylinder valve.

2. Observe the burner until the flame is extinguished.

3. Close the shut off valve on the heater.

4. DO NOT re-open the propane gas supply cylinder valve before the shut-off
valve is closed.

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TROUBLESHOOTING

Fault Cause Remedy

Burner fails to light 1.Gas supply valve

closed.

2.Excess gas flow

3.Piezo ignition not
sparking.

4.Defective thermocouple

No gas flow to the
burner.

Heater stops
during operation.

1.Cylinder gas valve
closed.

2.Cylinder is empty.

3.Nozzle is obstructed.

4.Gas leaks from the
supply hose or from tap.

5.Low gas pressure.

6.Control valve needs
to be replaced.

7.Loose wire on tip over
switch.

8. Loose or broken wire.

9.Loose/mis-located
thermocouple.

10.Defective thermo

-couple.

11.Defective control valve

1.Excessive gas supply.

2.Insufficient gas supply
due to ice formation on
the cylinder.

3.The tip-over switch has
tripped.

1.Open gas supply valve
slowly

2.Close propane supply valve
at propane tank and re­ open slowly.

3.Check wire lead for
damage. Replace igniter
assembly. Do not bend the
electrode as this
may cause breakage.

4.Replace thermocouple.

1.Open the gas valve

2.Replace cylinder.

3.Remove & clean the nozzle.

4.Use soapy water to find the
leak and repair.

5.Check for proper gas supply.

6.Replace control valve.

7.Tighten wires on switch.

8.Tighten or repair wire.

9.Tighten thermocouple.
Make sure that thermo­ couple is located correctly.

10.Replace thermocouple.

11.Replace the control valve.

1.Check the pressure regulator
and replace if necessary.

2.Check & use a larger
cylinder, or two or more in
parallel.

3.Heater has fallen over. Right
it. Take steps to prevent
re-occurrence.

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CLEANING & MAINTENANCE

WARNING: NEVER ATTEMPT ANY MAINTENANCE WHILE IT IS CONNECTED
TO THE PROPANE SUPPLY, IS OPERATING, OR IS HOT. (SEVERE BURNS CAN
RESULT).

1. Turn the heater off and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before cleaning.

2. Inspect the heater before each use. Check the connections for leaks.
Apply a mixture of liquid soap and water to the connections. Bubbles
forming indicate a leak. Correct any leaks at once.

3. Keep the heater clean. Clean the heater annually or as needed to remove
dust and debris. If the heater is dirty or dusty, clean with a damp cloth. Use
household cleaners on difficult spots. To clean the reflector, unclip the
guard from the front of the heater.

4. Clean the inside of the heater using compressed air where possible. Blow
air across the burner face until all dust has been dislodged from the
surface.

5. If the hose shows evidence of excessive abrasion or wear or if the hose is
cut it must be replaced prior to the heater being put into operation. The
replacement hose assembly shall be as supplied by CLARKE International.

6. The heater, including hose and regulator assembly, must be inspected at
least annually by a qualified service person.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gas Type LPG (Propane)

Output 4.7 kW (15,000 BTU/Hr)

Regulator Pressure 700 mbar (propane)

Inlet pressure 1-16 bar

Regulator flow rate 2 kg/hr

Fuel Consumption 0.34 kg/hr

Gas Hose Length 1500 mm

Weight unpacked 2 kg

Dimensions (L x W x H) 380 x 270 x 490 mm

Heating element diameter 110 mm

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COMPONENT PARTS

1 Guard assembly 11 Piezo igniter kit

2 Thermocouple protector 12 Hose/regulator assembly

3 Reflector assembly 13 On/off Knob

4 Ignitor electrode 14 Inlet connection

5 Rear guard assembly 15 On/off valve

6 Nut 16 Tip-over switch

7 Tube support 17 Wing nut

8 Thermocouple 18 Tube base

9Bolt 19End cap

10 Gas valve

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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

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