The best vented propane heaters offer efficient and convenient indoor heating whenever you need it. With a suitable unit, you can quickly raise your room temperature and avoid the adverse health effects of cold indoor air.
That said, buying the best vented propane heaters is not as straightforward as you may think. First, before walking (or clicking) into a store, you need to get familiar with what the market offers.
This understanding can save you a significant amount of time and money, both short-term and long term.
These vented propane heaters are available in various shapes and sizes, prices, designs, and performance levels. Unless you have all the time in the world, you must begin by trimming your options.
My Overall #1 Rated Pick
Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
IN A HURRY? HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS
- Rinnai EX08CP Wall Mounted Direct Ventilation Furnace Propane – Best for Tiny Room
- Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Heater – Best Wall Mounted
- US Store AGDV12L Ashley Direct Vent Propane Gas heater – Best Small Size
- Rinnai EX38CTWP Wall Mounted Propane Heater – Best Premium
- HouseWarmer Direct Vent Heater with Blower – Best for Cabin or Garage
- Mr. Heater Big MHU80NG Heater– Best Budget Option
- Empire Comfort System’s DV35SGLP Direct-vent wall heater – Best Long Lasting Option
To help you, we have scoured through the Web and developed a list of the best vented propane heaters available.
So, do not begin your hunt for the right heater from the bottom. Instead, start from here, and you will have the heating companion of your dreams in no time.
Product Reviews
1. Rinnai EX08CP Wall Mounted Direct Ventilation Furnace Propane
- NEW Cabinet Design
- NEW User Friendly Control
- NEW Setback Features
- Standby Power Less than 1-Watt
- Temperature Setting in Celsius or Farenheit
Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Rinnai direct vent wall furnace comes with easy-to-use controls and a generous set of features. In addition, it has a simple and compact cabinet-style design that makes it ideal for tight spaces.
As expected for small-space vented propane heaters, the Rinnai ex08cp wall mounted heater is not among the strongest performers on the market.
With a maximum heat output of 6,400 British thermal unit, it is only effective in tiny rooms less than 300 square feet.
Remarkably, however, this unit comes with an inbuilt fan to aid warm air circulation. In addition, the Rinnai heater has equipped the direct vent wall furnace with a programmable thermostat for smarter temperature regulation.
You can set your desired temperature and leave the device to do its job. When the room reaches the desired temperature, the heater automatically reduces the fan speed and the BTU output.
Similarly, if the temperature drops, the space heater adjusts the fan speed and heat exchanger to quickly restore warmth to the room.
Safety is a crucial consideration when buying any heater. So, it is commendable that this direct vent unit has an electronic-spark ignition instead of a pilot light.
It also features a cool-to-touch cabinet and child-lock settings to enhance safety around children.
The Rinnai wall heater is quite expensive for the performance it offers. Nevertheless, it justifies the price with its compact size, air circulation capabilities, and safety features.
Pros
- It easily fits in small spaces and tiny rooms
- Energy efficient with an AFUE rating of 83%.
- Commendable fan performance
- User-friendly control panel.
- Comprehensive safety features
Cons
- Relatively expensive
2. Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Heater
- BUILT-IN THERMOSTAT: Keep your living or work space heated with a direct vent wall heater with a built-in thermostat to monitor your heat dispersion
- SAFE & CLEAN AIR: Direct vent gas heater produces safe, clean energy that’s economical and aesthetically pleasing
- 11,000 BTU: Features 11,000 Btu indoor propane gas units
- EASY INSTALLATION: Installation is made easy by connecting heater to a gas fitter to heat your living space effectively with low maintenance required
- PREMIUM DESIGN: Sleek fireplace design is constructed from heavy-duty die-cast aluminum and ceramic glass for durability and reliability
Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Because martin direct vent propane does not need electricity to operate, it is ideal for off-grid applications like camps and emergencies like power outages.
This unit boasts an inspiring modern design. The glass-ceramic window enables you to see the blue flame produced by the burner.
Meanwhile, the heater’s body is made of cast aluminum, protecting it against wear and tear. The installation is also straightforward, as the package comes with a complete installation kit.
With an AFUE rating of 80.6%, the Martin 766013 offers 11,000 BTUs of heat. According to the manufacturer, it is best deployed in spaces no larger than 323 square feet.
Users have lauded this unit for its ultra-quiet operation and inbuilt thermostat. Both features make it exemplary for cold winter night heating.
Controlling Martin 766013 direct vent wall furnace is remarkably straightforward. You can set the temperature you want and leave the room thermostat to do its job.
The piezo ignition system also eliminates the need for electricity and the potential danger of pilot lights. The martin heater is a small indoor propane heater for medium spaces.
It is stylish and portable, and it offers the convenience of non-electric operation. Like the Rinnai EX08CP, however, it is more expensive than most competitors.
Pros
- Stylish design with a beautiful ceramic glass front
- Portability heaters
- Easy to install and use
- Blue flame technology
- Inbuilt programmable thermostat
Cons
- Modest safety features
- Relatively pricey
3. US Store AGDV12L Ashley Gas heater
The US Stove AGDV12L Ashley direct vent is another stylish and compact direct vent propane stove for small rooms. It offers commendable safety options and convenience at a competitive price tag.
The AGDV12L features a slim-line design that makes it blend easily with most decors. In addition, it comes with a complete installation kit to relieve the installation headache.
Some shoppers have complained that the installation instructions are not clear. Fortunately, this unit is common. In addition, you can find useful DIY mounting guides online.
Like its competitor, the martin direct vent propane, the AGDV12L does not need electricity to operate. The matchless piezo ignition makes lighting convenient and safe.
With an AFUE rating of 76%, it can provide a maximum heat output of 11,000 BTU. US Stove recommends using this unit in spaces of up to 275 square feet.
According to users, however, it maintains decent performance in rooms as large as 350 square feet. In addition, the AGDV12L has a built-in thermostat for autonomous temperature control.
It also offers a great set of safety features, including automatic shutoff and a thermocouple safety valve. Moreover, the cabinet remains cool to the touch, making it safe to use around children and pets.
All things considered, the US Store AGDV12L is a reliable option for small rooms. It assures you of easy operation and consistent comfort at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Slim, elegant design
- Non-electric operation
- Commendable performance for its size
- Inbuilt thermostat
- Generous safety features
Cons
- Installation instructions are not straightforward.
4. Rinnai EX38CTWP Wall Mounted
- Discontinued. Please see new model EX38DTWP
- Smart Features: Energy efficient furnace includes an electronic spark ignition, a seven-stage modulating gas valve, timer settings, a variable speed inducer motor with pressure switch, and an electronic thermostat with a range of 60°F to 80°F
- Safe Settings: Electric heater features a child lock and self-diagnostic electronics that continually monitor functions, provide auto shutdown codes, and restart automatically when ignition or combustion fails
- Gas furnace: For homes, apartments, condominiums, and commercial settings; the heater is modular/mobile home approved
Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Rinnai EX38CTWP is Rinnai’s alternative for shoppers looking for a larger version of the Rinnai EX08CP. Its inspiring performance, comprehensive safety functions, and user-friendliness make it a favorite among shoppers.
The EX38CTWP comes in a beautiful cabin design that fits into any room effortlessly. The installation kit included in the package provides everything you need to set up your unit. The instructions are also easy to follow.
With a 13,200 – 36,500 BTU heating system capacity range, the Rinnai direct vent wall furnace can heat areas as large as 2,500 square feet without breaking a sweat.
Thanks to its seven-stage modulating gas valve, this model is the most efficient amongst its peers. The valve feeds just the right amount of gas required to maintain your desired room temperature.
The onboard blower fan offers robust air distribution when you need it. However, it is not the quietest fan you will find in a direct vent heater. Nevertheless, you can slow it down when you want some peace while working or sleeping.
Rinnai vented propane heaters are famed for their user-friendliness and safety features. It is, therefore, no surprise that the EX22CWP comes with a programmable thermostat.
Just set the temperature you want, and the heater will achieve and maintain it without supervision. For safety, you get a cool-to-touch cabinet and child-lock functionality.
Overall, the Rinnai EX22CWP is high-quality, reliable, and safe. If you are on a budget, however, the price will likely be a deal-breaker.
Pros
- Elegant cabin design
- Compact and portable
- Easy installation
- Decent heating performance for medium-sized rooms
- Efficient operation
- Generous safety features
Cons
- Costlier than most competitors
5. HouseWarmer Vent Heater with Blower
Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The HouseWarmer Slim-Profile is a compact and powerful unit that offers excellent value. Its slim design makes it easy to fit in small spaces. Meanwhile, the simple look enables it to blend well with its surroundings.
Best of all, it does not require electricity to ignite. You can therefore deploy it in your garage or cabin without worrying about extra power outage.
As a 15,000 BTU heater, the HouseWarmer Slim provides enough heat for 525 square feet of room. In addition, it comes with a blower fan, which you can ramp up for quicker air distribution.
However, it does not come with an onboard adjustable thermostat. You will need to adjust the heat distribution manually, depending on the warmth you want.
Unlike many of its rivals, the HouseWarmer Slim-Profile does not offer the peace-of-mind of safety features. Its body gets hot after a few hours of continuous operation.
Furthermore, the lack of child-lock functionality means you cannot prevent unsupervised tampering. Nevertheless, this heater offers excellent performance for its price.
It also comes with a decent kit and straightforward instructions for easy installation. So if all you want is to heat a sizeable room on a budget, you will not be disappointed.
Pros
- Simple, practical design
- Non-electric ignition
- Admirable heating performance
- Robust blower fan
- Affordable price
Cons
- It does not come with a thermostat
- Lacks most standard safety features
6. Mr. Heater Big MHU80NG Heater
- Your purchase includes One Mr. Heater Big Maxx Natural Gas Heater with 2 angle brackets & Liquid Propane conversion kit | Thermostat, hose & regulator not included
- Heater dimensions – 29.33” L x 15.50” W x 26.37” H | Coverage area – 2000 Sq. Ft. | Performance – 80,000 BTU | Amps – 2.3 | Voltage – 120 V | Min 8 ft. clearance from floor to base of unit
- For use with natural gas | Category 1 vertical, category 3 horizontal venting
- Powered exhaust allows for vertical or horizontal venting | Spark ignition features self-diagnostic control module
- This heater offers the operating versatility and safety that you have come to expect from Mr. Heater | Limited 3 year warranty on parts and burners
Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Although box heaters are becoming increasingly outdated, this unit is an excellent option for affordable large-room heating.
As expected, this heater’s design is as simple as they come. It is meant to offer performance and practicality over aesthetics.
Because of the box body, installing this unit is significantly more demanding than the other vented propane heaters on our list. Successfully mounting it on your wall or ceiling will require professional help.
Once installed, however, the Mr. Heater Big MHU80NG gets right to work. With a whopping 80,000 BTU heat output, this heating system can warm up to 2,000 square feet of space.
Its high-velocity electric fan spreads heat evenly in your room for quicker warming. Furthermore, the powered heat exhaust allows for either vertical or horizontal venting.
The MHU80NG is not as user-friendly as other electric heaters. The lack of a thermostat means you will need to buy a portable option for accurate temperature control, for starters.
The unit is also too bulky to move around the house with ease. On the bright side, the ignition makes it safe to light.
The unit also features a self-diagnostic control module that lets you monitor the ignition system to prevent accidental gas leaks.
Admittedly, the Mr. Heater Big MHU80NG is not a sophisticated product. Nonetheless, it is an excellent choice if you have a massive room to heat and are on a budget.
Pros
- Excellent heating performance for large rooms
- High-velocity fan
- Spark ignition with a self-diagnostic control module
- Can use either propane or natural gas
Cons
- Bland design
- Lacks a built in thermostat
- Difficult to install
7. Empire Comfort System’s DV35SGLP Direct-vent wall heater
- Model #: DV35SGLP
- BTUs: 35,000
- BTU Output: 24,500
- Finish: Beige Powder Coated
- Overall Dimensions: 37" (W) x 11.5" (D) x 27.75" (H)
Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This unit has been around for over 20 years, yet it is still flying off the shelves. Although it does not offer modern-day convenience features, its reliability is unquestionable.
The DV35SGLP comes in a classic, textured beige coating cabinet. It may not be stylish, but it looks decent on a wall. It is also relatively compact, which is good news if you want to conserve wall space.
It generates 25,000 BTU of heat. It is, therefore, at home in small spaces measuring 1,000 square feet and below. In addition, empire Comfort Systems sells the DV35SGLP’s fan kit separately at a reasonable price.
We recommend buying the fan as well, as it offers dependable warm air circulation without being noisy.
As you would expect from a 20-year-old heater model, the DV35SGLP is not nearly as user-friendly as newer devices like the Rinnai EX38CTW. In addition, its pilot light ignition system makes it relatively complicated to light.
Moreover, the controls are not straightforward to access. It also lacks safety features like a cool-to-touch casing and child-lock settings. Thankfully, the manufacturer did not omit a thermostat.
When it comes to convenience, the DV35SGLP leaves quite a lot to be desired. However, its performance and reliability make it well worth considering.
Pros
- Simple, compact design
- Commendable performance for medium-sized spaces
- Long-term reliability
Cons
- The fan is sold separately
- It lacks some standard convenience features
Education: Things You Need To Know Before Buying
Although the units we have listed above are exemplary in their own right, some are better than other heaters.
If we had to rank these models, the best vented propane heater is the Rinnai EX08CP. The heater is aesthetically pleasing, easy to install, safe to use, and easy to operate. It also offers adequate heating for an average-size room.
However, budget shoppers might want to look elsewhere. If you are cash-strapped, you can consider the HouseWarmer Slim-Profile as an alternative.
It does not offer many conveniences, but it gets the job done efficiently and reliably.
Buying Guide – What to look for
Having understood how an indoor propane heater works, it’s critically important to know what to look for when buying.
And although the propane heater market is awash with some of the world’s leading brand names, there are specific features you should keenly consider when selecting the most suitable heater beside the name;
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Heating Capacity
The key reason you intend to buy a propane heater is to warm your space. The BTU rating indicated on vents determines the vents’ heat capacity.
With some spaces being less than 250 sq. ft, buying a 50,000 BTU heater will be absurd, yet a 7,500 BTU direct vent heater would be enough.
But what is the recommended BTU rating per sq. ft? For standard operation, a propane wall heater furnace rated 20 BTU/sq. Ft would be ideal.
With that in mind, the most confusing question is, would you go for the expert’s suggested 40BTU/ sq. ft or the government’s recommended rating?
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Safety features
Despite their many benefits, heaters can be a threat to your health and life. And if you’ve got children and pets, you need to put extra caution.
Some brands boast of glass-ceramic windows, heavy-duty grills, and die-cast aluminum; others have automatic switch-off mechanisms.
The main aspects to consider are oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) or Automatic low-oxygen shutoff system, adjustable thermostat, and control locking features.
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Maintenance and installation
How much does it cost to install and maintain? For example, buying a heater that would require an expert every time it has a mechanical or electrical supply problem is equal to adding another mandatory bill.
A simple and easy-to-use propane heater should top your list as some have in-built fragile components.
Installing a propane wall heater furnace can be too complicated if your house plan does not match the installation’s heater design.
The heater’s piping, venting, and mounting methods should not significantly differ from your house plan. Check the heaters installation system on the manual and compare it with your house plan. All heaters need proper maintenance.
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Heating efficiency
From the amount of clean burning fuel you use, how much thermal energy is released? For example, a heater rated 65% means it has an inefficiency of 35%, mainly caused in the combustion chamber by the ventilation system.
When comparing the two-pipe vented models and single pipe models, the latter’s efficiency is 50%, while the two-pipe heaters are 70%.
But before you read the heater’s efficiency rating, consider models with Energy Star certification as their efficiency is unmatched.
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Extra modern features
With more homes turning to smart devices, a heater connected to Wifi is more suited than the old-fashioned ones.
Among the extra features to look for are; remote control, programmable timer, thermostat control, and multiple heating settings.
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The radiant or conventional heating mechanism
A convectional heater is more suitable for heating large spaces since it is designed to heat the surrounding area and objects, warming the outdoor air and circulating it evenly.
On the other hand, radiant heaters are known to be more efficient because they heat objects directly.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Vented Propane Heaters
By physically looking at the top vented propane heaters, you can guess their pros and cons.
Advantages
- Compact sizes– Vented propane heaters have compact sizes. So, no matter how small or big your space is, you can easily fit them without compromising aesthetics.
- More secure– The venting system is designed to expel unwanted carbon dioxide outside. Only radiated heat is allowed to circulate in the space. The propane gas tank features puncture resistance properties and a device to maintain the pressure.
- Multiple uses– Besides warming your space, a vented propane-fueled heater can be used to cook, dry objects, and wash.
Disadvantages
- Inefficiencies– The ventilation system in a vented propane heater loses some heat during the combustion process, causing inefficiencies and increasing expenses.
- Difficult to install– In cases where the ventilation pipes aren’t installed, the installation process can be quite tricky. You may also need to hire an installation expert, which is an extra cost.
Propane Heater Safety Tricks and Tips
Here are expert tips and tricks to implement if you’ve installed a propane heater in your home, cabin, or office.
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Install a smoke and carbon dioxide detector
Mechanical and electrical supply machines or parts fail without warning. And since it is impossible to know the amount of carbon in your surrounding space, a CO detector would definitely save your life.
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Check fuel gauge regular and refill whenever its below 20%
The only way to ensure constant warmth in your house, cabin, or other space is by maintaining regular checks on the propane tank.
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Have the vented propane heater manual at your figure tips
How else would you be able to do minor repairs on the heater without involving an expert if not by reading the manual inside out?
B-vent Vs. Vented propane heaters
When looking for a vented propane gas heater, you have two choices:
– B-vent
– Direct Vent.
Natural vent or B-Vent heaters require installing a pipe running through your home and out via the roof. They operate by burning a little room air and then expelling the fumes outside.
Not only are they affordable and easy to maintain, but they are also very efficient. The only thing is that you might need a professional if you don’t have your roof installation already sorted.
The latter uses a vent devised, particularly by the supplier. One part of the direct vent propane wall heater functions as an exhaust, whereas the other part takes in the air.
It is also worth noting that the unit is enclosed; therefore, it doesn’t burn the room air. Instead, the fumes from the exhaust are expelled through a sidewall or roof. As a result, these low-cost heaters are more efficient than B-vents.
How to Light a Propane Heater
The general process of lighting a propane heater is as follows;
Step 1: Set the wall thermostat to the lowest level and turn the thermocouple safety valve control knob counterclockwise to open.
Step 2: In case it’s equipped with programming devices, check their heat settings. Again, turn the electrical power off.
Step 3: Light the propane heater. If it has a pilot, use a matchstick to light, and for those with the ignition system, push the knob in and turn to light.
Step 4: Adjust the multiple heat settings to the desired level.
FAQs?
Choosing the direct vent propane wall heater starts by filtering out the best units on the market. Once you have your top choices, you need to rank them according to your needs and preferences.
If you wonder what to keep in mind when buying one of these units, you are not alone. Shoppers are asking the same questions you have. So, read on for some credible answers.
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Are vented propane heaters safe?
Modern indoor units are generally safe home-use appliances. The top units come with sturdy brackets for reliable securing to a wall.
They also have safety functions like cool-touch cabinets, overheat protection, and child safety lock settings.
Furthermore, unlike vent-free propane heaters, vented heaters do not expel byproducts in the combustion chamber like carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide back into the room.
Instead, they vent them outside through the wall of your house. This factor makes them less likely to deplete the oxygen in indoor air or cause carbon monoxide poisoning thanks to its oxygen depletion sensor.
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How can you measure the heat output of a direct vent propane heater?
The heating performance of propane gas heaters is explained in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The more the BTUs, the more heat you can get from your unit.
High-BTU units can circulate warm air in rooms quicker than lower-BTU models. They can also be comfortably deployed in large rooms.
To buy a product that will give you the best heating performance, consider the size of space you intend to heat. A general rule of thumb is that 40 BTUs is enough for one square foot.
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Are vented propane heaters easy to light?
The units come with a variety of ignition methods. The older models usually have pilot lights, while newer units can have more advanced piezo-electric and electronic ignition systems.
Most users consider pilot lights more complicated to light than automatic spark systems. Moreover, since a standing pilot requires a constant fuel supply, it is considerably less cost-efficient than spark ignition.
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What is the best position for a vented propane heater?
When buying a direct vent heater, you must consider where you will place it. The right mounting position is crucial for safe and efficient heater operation.
They do not offer flexible placement options. Installing one will require you to access your house’s external wall and run the vent pipe outside. You will also need to mount the heater close to the propane tank for easy piping.
Additionally, it is best to place the heater as close to the ground as possible. That way, you can get an even warmth distribution around your room.
You may also like the best propane patio heaters and propane fireplace reviews.
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How Much Propane Does a Tankless Water Heater Consume?
The amount of propane needed by a tankless water heater mainly depends on; water quality, the number of people using it, geographical temperature, plus tankless water heater support.
For a family of two, you can consume 15 gallons monthly. If you’re more than 5 members, 35-40 gallons of propane should be enough to do all household chores.
Read More: Best Waste Oil Burning Heater for Garage
Wrap Up
Best direct vent propane heaters are excellent devices for indoor heating. They provide the heat you require without impacting your energy bill significantly.
Moreover, despite the reputation of propane gas, these units are safe heating solutions.
If you are in the market for one, you will realize that they differ in features and prices. So, do not walk in the dark. Instead, let this post be your guide towards making the right choice.
Check out our other reviews on tank top propane heater and the quietest forced air propane heaters.
