20 Most Recent Desa International TB101 Heater Questions & Answers

The Part # for the Thermocouple is 104146-05.

Keep in mind, DESA International is no longer in business, but I think you can find it at
www.reddyrparts.com

According to the Owners Manual there s no conversion kit available, not is it recommended.
In answer to your other question about the Btu output, no it would not be the same. Propane burns hotter than natural gas.

Yes it will work but it will heat more efficiently with the 100 lb tank

It sounds like the thermocouple is bad. If a replacement doesn't fix it, there are some adjustment screws for the gas valve, but they need to set with a pressure guage, so that might require servicing.
Desa filed bankruptcy in 2008, but the following website provides parts:
http://www.desatech.com/
Good luck, and hope this helps.

Normally the main control over the propane is the thermocouple. It ensured the gas is turned off if there is no heat, so that you don't get an explosive build up of gas.
But I doubt this is the problem because it would not likely come and go, or be weak.
So my best guess is the orifix jet is getting clogged.
The opening the gase comes out is small, and is can get clogged easily from dirt in the line before you connected it. Water and sediment can also build up in the tank. There may even be a filter on the device that could be clogged, but most do not have a filter. Instead you need to remove the final jet orifice, see if it looks clogged or open, and blow it out. You can back blow the entire line if you take it off at the tank to let the dirt fly out. Careful if you want to stick a pin in to unclog it, because you don't want to increase the opening size.
As a final warning, if you run this in an enclosed space, it could use up all the oxygen, and that can also make the flame weak and go out. So make sure it has plenty of ventilation. Aim the exhaust out an open door if you can.

http://www.fixya.com/support/t26881969-vanguard_ventless_heater_won_t_shut_off Feb 7, 2018 - If it does not work for you, you will need to replace the gas valve. It's expensive but I'm about positive that cleaning it will fix it. ... Hi it is blue with a slight yellow tip ... at www.desatech.com , then go to "Wall Heaters" then click your model ... I fixed this by dismantling the fire and right next to the control knob ... Gas wall heaters vangaurd model VP2600C 10 answers Jan 31, 2014 SOLVED: I have a vanguard propane wall heater, 5 ... 2 answers Jan 6, 2010 More results from www.fixya.com

If it's a direct spark ignition type heater maybe that's how it's designed to.work .When called for heat pilot open allowing gas then ignitor spark and ignite the pilot then gas valve open and allow gas through burner then unit fires off .
Once temp is met pilot valve closes and pilot out .

Try cleaning the gas tube with a pipe cleaner and insure the flame is in contact with the thermo coupling.

I have same model, went to all parts.com and ordered pilot assembly for 105$ , has all in one kit. Part # 108084-02 easy instal Good luck