Why won't my Tank Top Heater work?

If your Tank Top Heater Models MH-16-TTC, MH-32-TTC, MH-47-TTC are not working, try these troubleshooting steps first.

What Issue Are You Experiencing?

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• The head won't stay lit.

• It won't light/has a very low flame.

• Propane smell is detected when the unit is off.

• Warranty Information

Problem: The head won't stay lit.

Possible Issues: The tip-over switch or thermocouple. 

Steps to Try:

1. If the unit will not light:
   1. Check that the valve and propane cylinder is open.
   2. Ensure the regulator knob is in the “HI” position.
   3. Insert a lit match into the ignition hole in the reflector. 
   4. Press the safety shut-off valve plunger for five seconds. 
   5. Once lit, keep the plunger depressed for 30 seconds. Then release the plunger, and if the burner stays lit, remove and extinguish the match. 
      1. If it lights but then goes out, there is an issue with the thermocouple or tip switch.
2. Test the tip switch:
   1. Remove the yellow wires off of the black box. (tip-over switch) found below the head near the base of the unit. Place a jumper wire between and try starting the unit. If the unit does not start, the tip switch is defective. If the unit lights, the thermocouple is defective. 
      1. OR place meter leads into spade terminals of the switch. Set meter to ohms resistance. Observe for resistance reading on meter. Tip heater. Meter should indicate a break in the circuit. If no reading is apparent then Tip Switch is defective.
3. Test the thermocouple: 
   1. Locate the thermocouple assembly. 
   2. Unplug thermocouple wire from tip switch.
   3. Use an ohm reader. Plug black meter lead into the space connection of the thermocouple. Place red lead onto the outside of the thermocouple. Heat thermocouple with an external heat source and observe for millivolt output of 13-30 MV. 
      1. If no millivolt is observed from the thermocouple then it is defective and needs replacement

Problem: It won't light/has a very low flame.

Possible Issue: Incorrect LB gas size may be attached.

Steps to try:

1. On Tank Top heaters, they need to sit directly on a 20 lb. propane tank.
   1. If it's under 20 lbs, it may not work properly.
   2. If it is over 20 lbs, the unit will burn too hot and cause damage to the unit.

Problem: If propane smell is detected when the unit is off. 

Possible Issue: The hose and regulator need to be replaced.

Steps to Try: 

1. Please contact our customer care representatives and we will send you a replacement hose and regulator.