Finding the right 15,000 BTU heater depends on application, fuel type, installation, and efficiency. Below is a concise roundup of five widely used options across PTAC, RV rooftop, portable propane, and direct-vent natural gas categories. The summary helps match each model to common use cases and installation needs.
| Model | Type | Heat Source | 15,000 BTU Role | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooper & Hunter PTAC (Sleeve Included) | Packaged Terminal A/C (PTAC) | Heat Pump + Electric Heater | Heating Capacity via heat pump + 3.5 kW electric backup | Hotels, apartments, retrofits |
| Klimaire PTAC With 5kW Backup | PTAC Heat Pump | Heat Pump + 5 kW Electric | Heat pump plus auxiliary electric to supplement | Replacement PTACs, larger rooms |
| TOSOT GO Cool RV Rooftop | Rooftop RV AC With Heat Pump | Electric Heat Pump | 15,000 BTU Cooling, 12,000 BTU Heating (heat pump) | RVs 16–24 ft, mobile living |
| Mr. Heater Single Tank Portable | Portable Propane Radiant Heater | Propane | Up To 15,000 BTU On High | Garages, workshops, temporary outdoor use |
| EMPIRE DV215 NG Direct Vent Furnace | Direct Vent Wall Furnace | Natural Gas | 15,000 BTU Natural Gas Output | Basements, garages, add-on room heating |
Cooper & Hunter PTAC With Sleeve
This Cooper & Hunter 15,000 BTU PTAC is a packaged terminal air conditioner and heat pump that also includes a 3.5 kW electric heater. The listed cooling is ~14,700/14,500 BTU, with heat pump heating at ~13,500/13,200 BTU and electric backup output from the 3.5 kW element. This SKU ships with a power cord, wall sleeve, and exterior grille, reducing accessory purchases and simplifying installation. Designed for 208/230V, 1Ph, 60Hz and charged with R-32 refrigerant, it includes a 20A plug with a reset breaker. For new installs, verify sleeve sizing and electrical receptacle compatibility before purchasing. This model targets residential and light commercial PTAC use where a slide-in sleeve is standard.
Klimaire PTAC Heat Pump With 5kW
The Klimaire 15,000 BTU PTAC is offered with a bundled 5 kW electric heater and a heat pump. Cooling capacity is listed at ~14,700/14,500 BTU; heat pump heating is ~13,500/13,200 BTU, with auxiliary electric heat providing supplemental output around 15,000/12,200 BTU. The unit uses R-32 refrigerant and reports an EER of 10.6. It is designed as a seamless replacement for standard 42″ x 16″ wall sleeves and includes a drain kit and remote control. Power requirements include a 30A, grounded plug (LCDI 6-30P). This model is useful when a higher-capacity electric backup heater and standard sleeve compatibility are priorities for retrofit projects.
TOSOT GO Cool RV Rooftop AC
The TOSOT GO Cool 15,000 BTU rooftop AC for RVs pairs 15,000 BTU cooling with a heat pump offering around 12,000 BTU heating. Listed coverage indicates suitability for RV interiors up to roughly 600 sq ft, and manufacturer notes suggest typical fit for RVs ~16–24 feet. The unit supports WiFi control via a smartphone app and includes a remote. Operating range spans outdoor temperatures from ~23°F to 115°F and indoor range ~61°F–86°F. As a non-ducted rooftop option, this model emphasizes mobility, integrated heat pump heating, and smart control rather than permanent building installation. Verify roof opening and 12V/AC power compatibility before purchase.
Mr. Heater Single Tank Portable Propane
This 15,000 BTU single burner radiant propane heater mounts directly to a 20 lb propane tank and is intended for portability. It offers multi-level output (high/medium/low) around 15,000 / 12,500 / 10,000 BTU, and includes a tip-over safety shutoff. The design emphasizes mobile warmth for well-ventilated garages, outdoor workspaces, patios, or temporary shelter use. As a propane radiant unit, it warms objects and people directly rather than heating large enclosed volumes efficiently. Confirm propane safety practices, ventilation, and local codes before indoor use; these units are typically categorized for outdoor or ventilated-space operation.
EMPIRE DV215 NG Direct Vent Furnace
The EMPIRE DV215 NG is a 15,000 BTU direct vent wall furnace designed for natural gas supply. It includes venting components and a vent cap for through-wall installation and is sized for applications like basements, workshops, or add-on rooms. Physical dimensions are listed to assist planning for wall cutouts and clearances. As a direct vent unit, it draws combustion air from outside and vents exhaust outdoors, improving indoor air quality versus unvented gas heaters. Installation requires appropriate gas connections and a wall penetration meeting local code and manufacturer instructions.
Buying Guide
Match Heating Capacity To Space
15,000 BTU output is roughly suited to heating a well-insulated space from 600 to 900 square feet in mild climates, or smaller rooms in colder regions. For accurate sizing, account for insulation, ceiling height, window area, and climate. PTAC and direct vent units often serve single rooms; rooftop RV units are sized for mobile floor plans; portable propane units heat people and surfaces more efficiently than large open volumes.
Fuel Type And Operational Costs
Fuel options here include electric heat pumps with electric backup, propane, and natural gas. Heat pumps are typically more energy-efficient when outdoor temperatures permit and rely on electricity and refrigerant cycles. Electric auxiliary heaters provide predictable output but increase electric draw. Gas and propane can offer lower fuel costs depending on local rates but require safe venting and fuel supply. Compare cost per BTU in your region and factor maintenance and clearance requirements.
Installation And Venting Requirements
Installation complexity varies: PTACs require a wall sleeve and wall opening of standard dimensions; rooftop RV units need roof mounting and compatible electrical feed; direct vent furnaces require wall penetrations and gas hook-up; portable propane units need only a propane bottle and appropriate ventilation. Confirm existing sleeve dimensions, roof opening sizes, electrical supply (20A vs. 30A), and gas service before ordering to avoid retrofit surprises.
Electrical Requirements And Controls
Check the unit’s voltage and plug type: some PTACs use 208/230V and may require a 20A or 30A connection. Klimaire lists a 30A LCDI plug, whereas other PTAC models come with 20A plugs. RV rooftop units often run off the coach shore power and may include WiFi or remote controls. Confirm breaker sizing, cord type, and whether a licensed electrician is needed.
Refrigerant And Efficiency
Modern PTAC and rooftop heat pump units often use R-32 refrigerant, which offers improved efficiency and lower global warming potential than older blends. Compare EER/SEER or COP ratings where available and note auxiliary electric heater sizes when estimating worst-case electric draw.
Noise And Comfort Considerations
Heat pumps and PTACs produce fan and compressor noise; rooftop RV units attempt to balance capacity with sound control. Portable propane can be quieter but operate as radiant heat sources, offering different comfort profiles. If sound is a concern for bedrooms or hotels, review manufacturer dB specifications or look for units marketed for quiet operation.
Safety Features And Certifications
Look for tip-over switches, overheat protection, LCDI/GFCI protection for cords, UL/ETL listings, and proper venting for combustion heaters. Direct vent furnaces and gas appliances should meet local codes and be installed by qualified technicians. Propane heaters typically require outdoor or well-ventilated operation; portable units often include a tip-over shutoff for basic safety.
Maintenance And Longevity
Heat pumps and PTACs require routine filter cleaning, coil checks, and occasional refrigerant service. Gas furnaces and propane units need periodic inspection of lines, burners, and vents. Consider availability of replacement parts, accessible service centers, and whether the model ships with installation accessories like sleeves or grilles, which reduce initial installation friction.
Application-Based Comparison
- Hotels / Apartments: PTAC units with sleeves (Cooper & Hunter, Klimaire) fit standard wall sleeves and provide consistent year-round heating and cooling.
- RVs / Mobile Homes: Rooftop heat pumps (TOSOT) are designed for roof openings and include mobile-friendly controls like WiFi and remotes.
- Workshops / Garages: Portable propane heaters (Mr. Heater) and direct vent furnaces provide rapid warmth; choose direct vent for enclosed spaces to avoid combustion byproducts indoors.
- Basements / Add-On Rooms: Direct vent natural gas furnaces (EMPIRE) deliver continuous, vented combustion heat appropriate for conditioned spaces when ductless solutions are acceptable.
Operational Reliability And Backup Heat
For colder climates, auxiliary electric heaters (3.5 kW or 5 kW) provide predictable backup when heat pump efficiency falls. Klimaire’s 5 kW auxiliary heat and Cooper & Hunter’s 3.5 kW are examples. Consider whether the electrical panel and service can support these loads during simultaneous heating cycles.
Permits, Codes, And Professional Installation
Gas appliances and some PTAC or through-wall installations may require permits. Direct venting, combustible clearances, and gas hookups should comply with local code. For rooftop and gas equipment, professional installation improves safety, ensures manufacturer warranty coverage, and verifies correct venting and electrical connections.
Warranty, Support, And Parts Availability
Check manufacturer warranty terms, length, and what components are covered. PTAC and rooftop systems may offer different warranty periods for compressors, electronics, and labor. Confirm local replacement part availability and whether the supplier provides installation accessories to avoid delays.
Environmental And Long-Term Considerations
Newer refrigerants like R-32 reduce environmental impact compared to older blends. Heat pumps generally yield lower operational carbon intensity when electricity grids are cleaner. For sustainable choices, consider unit efficiency, refrigerant type, and expected lifespan when comparing total lifecycle impact.
Final Selection Checklist
- Measure space and determine appropriate BTU sizing for climate and insulation.
- Confirm power supply, plug type, and breaker capacity before ordering.
- Decide on fuel type (electric heat pump, natural gas, or propane) based on availability and operating cost.
- Review installation requirements: sleeve, roof opening, or wall venting.
- Verify safety certifications and whether professional installation is recommended or required.
- Check warranty, parts availability, and manufacturer support options.