Alkota’s SFA150 Infrared Heater is a space-warming behemoth. With the capability of producing 147,000 BTUs, you’ll be able to warm your workspace in no time flat. We put together a quick-start guide if you’re curious about this heater or if you just added it to your worksite arsenal.
Our infrared heater is oil-fuel fired, meaning you can fuel it with diesel, kerosene, or home heating oil, giving you various options. The SFA150 has a fuel capacity of 19 gallons or 72 liters, allowing consistent heat through multiple work days before needing to refuel.
The heater is portable and comes equipped with an adjustable handle that can be raised or lowered so you can quickly move the heater to where you need heat most.
How To: Heat Things Up
With a few simple steps, you’ll be up and running. First, make sure your heater is on a level, non-combustible surface. If you are on a 25º angle or more, the unit will not start.
**PSA: Be sure to read your user manual before operating your heater**
- Fill the tank with Diesel or #2 fuel oil only (NO Gasoline!)
- Plug into a grounded outlet or grounded extension cord
- Generators – the heater can run off a pure-sine power inverter or generator with a minimum of 800 watts running wattage.
- Switch to high fire.
- Turn the power switch ON.
- The blower will come on and run for 15 seconds prior to lighting (pre-purge)
- After a few seconds, the green light will come on, letting the user know it is calling for heat and will fire within a few seconds.
Shutting Down: When shutting down the heater, turn the power switch off—allowing the burner to complete the post-purge cycle (5 minutes) before disconnecting the power cord. Allow the heater to complete its post-purge of heat and fuel vapors to reduce the risk of a fire hazard.
Keep It Hot: Maintenance Suggestions
We recommend staying on top of some essential maintenance items to keep your infrared heater running. Remember, only attempt maintenance once your machine has thoroughly cooled down and is unplugged.
Fuel Nozzle – If you experience a bad flame or smokey flame, your fuel nozzle might be clogged or dirty. Try cleaning your nozzle or replacing it.
Fuel Filter – If you have a bad flame or if your machine is firing but then fails, you may need to replace your fuel filter. You should replace your fuel filter after every 200 hours of use or approximately 12 tanks of fuel.
Clean the blower wheel – The blower wheel accumulates dust and debris during regular operation. Regularly cleaning the wheel blades will prevent a reduction in airflow. If the blower motor or wheel fails, both items are replaceable.
Fuel Tank Maintenance – If you are having issues with plugging fuel filters or bad fuel, you can drain your fuel tank via the drain plug on the bottom of the tank.
Accessories and Spare Parts
Thermostat: Adding the option thermostat gives you another level of control and helps you save fuel. We recommend placing the thermostat 10-20 feet away from the unit – learn more in the user manual.
EZ-LIFT Crane Bracket – easily lift your heater with a crane and get heat to those high job sites.
Protective Cover – Keep the dust and weather off your heater with the protective cover.
Protective Mat – Place under the heater to help protect working surfaces.
We recommend keeping the following spare parts on hand:
CAD Cell, Nozzle Fuel w.Check Valve 100PSI, Primary Control, Fuel Filter. You can find these parts at your local Alkota distributor.
We hope you’ve found this quick start helpful guide! Of course, always refer to your owner’s manual for more detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips, or reach out to your local Alkota distributor for assistance.
