Clarke GSH15 User guide

GAS BOTTLE TOP HEATER

MODEL NO: GSH15

PART NO: 6920040

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE

INSTRUCTIONS

ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS GC11/23

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this CLARKE 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.

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.

This heater is intended for drying and the warming of 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.

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.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gas Type LPG (Propane) - G31

Suitable bottle sizes 5-13kg (max dia 300mm)

Output 4.2 kW (14,330 BTU/Hr)

Inlet pressure 37 mbar

Regulator flow rate 1.5 kg/hr

Fuel Consumption 0.3 kg/hr

Gas Hose Length 600 mm

Weight unpacked 2.1 kg inc hose & regulator

Dimensions (L x W x H) 320 x 220 x 350 mm

Safe working clearance 1.5m front, top & sides

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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 with-drawal, 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. 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.

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

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

9. This heater is for use only in well ventilated areas.

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

11. Maintain adequate clearance from normal combustible material

12. DO NOT place the heater near combustible materials such as curtains,
furniture etc. Allow at least 1.5 metre clearance.

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

14. Use only on a firm, level surface.

15. DO NOT use with ductwork. DO NOT restrict air circulation.

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

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

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

19. DO NOT leave the heater un-attended, for example, left on at night.

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20. This heater is designed to heat larger areas such as workshops. DO NOT use
the heater for any other function. It is not suitable for drying clothes or
laundry.

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

FRESH AIR REQUIREMENTS

• DO NOT use in unventilated areas.

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

WARNING: 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 use any other source of ignition.

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. Call the fire brigade. DO NOT re-enter the building or area.

6. Stay out of the building until declared safe by the firefighters.

7. FINALLY let the firefighters check for escaped gas. Have them ventilate the
building 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 THE FIRE
BRIGADE. 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 LPG
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.

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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.

FEATURES OF THE GSH15 HEATER

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 5-13 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 11) 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.

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COMPONENT PARTS

1 Mounting bracket 7 Connecting hose

2 Washer and spring washer 8 Gas tap

3 Cylinder valve 9 Piezo ignition button

4 Wingnut 10 Cylinder connector

5 Regulator connector 11 Appliance connector

6 Constant pressure regulator

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ASSEMBLY

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. Fit the mounting bracket onto the collar of
the gas cylinder and tighten the mounting
screw so that so that it engages with the
collar of the gas cylinder.

2. Attach the heater to the mounting
bracket using the bolt, washers and
wingnut supplied.

LOCATING THE HEATER

The heater and gas cylinder must be located
on a hard, level surface to minimize the risk of
accidental tipping. The gas cylinder should
be adequately restrained if needed. Only
operate this heater with the 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.

It 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.

Position the heater at a safe distance of 1.5 metre from combustible materials.

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

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GAS CONNECTION

WARNING: 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 gas 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.

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 on the cylinder 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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Parts & Service: 020 8988 7400 / E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

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.

When initially used outdoors the odour will quickly clear.

Set the heater at the required angle to project the heat forward.

LIGHTING THE HEATER

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

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.

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.

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NOTE: 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 or broken wire.

8.Defective thermocouple

1.Excessive or insufficient
gas supply.

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 or repair wire.

8.Replace thermocouple.

1.Check the pressure regulator
and replace if necessary.

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Parts & Service: 020 8988 7400 / E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE

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

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

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.

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. Use eye protection if using compressed air.

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, should be inspected at
least annually by a qualified service person.

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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DECLARATIONS OF CONFORMITY

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Parts & Service: 020 8988 7400 / E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]