Quick Overview: These vented wall heaters provide direct vent or direct-vent-style heating for enclosed spaces where a sealed combustion system is preferred. The table below summarizes core specs drawn from manufacturer features to help you compare coverage, BTU output, and fuel type at a glance.
| Product | BTU | Estimated Coverage | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Direct Vent | 11,000 | Up To 375 Sq. Ft. | Liquid Propane |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent (LP) | 17,000 | Up To 570 Sq. Ft. | Liquid Propane |
| Rinnai EX38DTP Direct Vent Wall Furnace | 36,500 | Modulating Coverage (Varies) | Propane (Indoor Propane Model) |
| Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent (Natural Gas) | 25,000 | Up To 825 Sq. Ft. | Natural Gas (Direct Vent) |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent (Natural Gas) | 17,000 | Up To 570 Sq. Ft. | Natural Gas (Direct Vent) |
Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Direct Vent LP
Primary Specs: 11,000 BTU output, rated to heat up to 375 sq. ft., direct vent wall-mount design. Manufacturer lists a compact footprint: 20 H, 17 W, 7 D inches.
Safety And Operation: Features a sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo ignition, and a safety pilot with built-in pressure regulator that stops gas flow if the pilot extinguishes. Being a direct vent design, combustion air is drawn from the outside and exhausts outside, isolating combustion from indoor air.
Best Use Cases: Suited for smaller rooms, finished basements, or spaces where sealed combustion and wall-mounted installation are priorities. The compact dimensions make it appropriate for rooms with limited wall surface area.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent LP
Primary Specs: 17,000 BTU output, intended coverage up to 570 sq. ft. Dimensions listed at 20 H, 27.3 W, 6.5 D inches to accommodate larger heat loads than the 11k model.
Safety And Design: Also uses a sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo ignition, and a safety pilot with a built-in pressure regulator to interrupt gas flow if the pilot is lost. The unit mounts on walls and keeps combustion isolated from indoor air.
Best Use Cases: Appropriate for mid-size rooms, small open plan areas, garages with insulated walls, and spaces where a direct vent installation is feasible and outdoor venting is required for safe indoor combustion.
Rinnai EX38DTP Direct Vent Wall Furnace
Primary Specs: Described as a direct vent wall furnace with 36,500 BTU capacity and advanced modulating technology to match output to demand. Manufacturer highlights consistent room temperature control and reduced cold spots.
Safety And Efficiency: Features a cool-to-the-touch cabinet and self-diagnostic electronics. The product notes energy-saving characteristics through precise output modulation, which reduces fuel consumption by matching heat to need.
Best Use Cases: Suited for larger rooms, whole-room replacement of older furnaces, or spaces where robust, consistent heating and advanced controls are desirable. The modulating output is helpful where reducing temperature swings is a priority.
Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas
Primary Specs: 25,000 BTU output with stated coverage up to 825 sq. ft. This is a larger direct vent wall heater in Comfort Glow’s line, sized for more demanding spaces.
Safety And Design: Includes a sealed burn system and safety pilot with a built-in pressure regulator to stop gas flow if the pilot is lost. The unit mounts on walls and uses direct venting to isolate combustion.
Fuel Note: This specific model is listed as natural gas. For readers searching for propane options, check manufacturer specifications or model variants, as manufacturers sometimes offer similar vented models for propane or conversion kits through authorized service.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas
Primary Specs: 17,000 BTU output with estimated coverage up to 570 sq. ft. Shares dimensions and many design elements with the propane 17k model but is provided in a natural gas configuration.
Safety And Design: Like other Comfort Glow direct vent units, it features a sealed burn system and pressure-regulator safety pilot. The wall-mount design keeps the combustion path sealed from indoor air.
Fuel Note: This listing is for the natural gas variant. If you require a propane-fueled direct vent heater, confirm availability of a liquid propane model or authorized conversion options from the manufacturer.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Vented Wall Heater
Vented vs. Vent-Free Systems: Direct vent (vented) heaters draw combustion air from outside and exhaust to the outdoors, keeping indoor air quality stable. Vent-free units exhaust combustion into the living space and are limited in some regions due to moisture and ventilation concerns. If you prioritize sealed combustion for indoor air quality, choose a direct vent model.
Fuel Type And Model Variants
- Propane (LP) vs Natural Gas: Confirm the product’s fuel designation. Some manufacturers offer both LP and NG models or require certified conversion kits. Use only manufacturer-specified conversions and certified technicians.
- Availability: If a listed model is natural gas but you rely on propane, check for a matching LP model or verify conversion policy with the manufacturer.
BTU Rating And Room Coverage
Match BTU To Space: Calculate room heat loss based on square footage, ceiling height, insulation, window area, and climate. Manufacturer coverage estimates (e.g., 375 sq. ft., 570 sq. ft., 825 sq. ft.) provide a baseline but consider local conditions and insulation levels when selecting BTU output.
Over-sizing vs Under-sizing: Oversized heaters cycle more frequently and can be less efficient; undersized units will fail to maintain comfort. Aim for a BTU range that aligns with your heat load calculation.
Installation And Venting Requirements
- Venting Type: Direct vent systems require through-wall or coaxial venting to the outside. Verify wall thickness, required clearances, and permissible termination locations per local codes.
- Professional Installation: Many direct vent heaters require professional gas hookup and vent installation to meet safety codes and maintain warranties. Consider hiring licensed HVAC or plumbing contractors.
Safety Features
Sealed Burn Systems: These keep combustion air and exhaust isolated from the home—preferred for indoor air quality and carbon monoxide safety.
ODS and Pressure Regulators: Look for Oxygen Depletion Sensors (ODS) and built-in pressure regulators or safety pilots that shut off gas if the pilot is lost. These are critical safety features for any gas appliance.
Controls, Modulation, And Efficiency
- Thermostatic Control: Units with built-in thermostats or compatibility with room thermostats provide better temperature control and efficiency.
- Modulating Output: Models with modulating burners (like some wall furnaces) adjust output to match demand, reducing temperature swings and fuel use.
- Self-Diagnostics: Integrated diagnostics simplify troubleshooting and maintenance, helpful for long-term reliability.
Physical Footprint And Aesthetics
Wall Space: Confirm unit dimensions and mounting requirements; direct vent heaters often need clearance around the cabinet and specified wall cutouts for the vent.
Finish And Location: Many units offer neutral finishes and compact profiles, but consider location relative to furniture, beds, or curtains to maintain clearance and safety.
Maintenance And Longevity
- Routine Checks: Inspect pilot assembly, venting, and seals periodically. Keep vent terminations clear of debris.
- Authorized Service: Use authorized service providers for repairs and any fuel-type conversions to preserve safety and warranty coverage.
Local Codes And Venting Restrictions
Code Compliance: Local building codes may regulate vent-free appliances, indoor combustion, and venting methods. Verify code requirements and permit needs before purchase and installation.
Comparison Perspectives
Small Room Heating: Lower-BTU direct vent models such as 11,000 BTU units work well in compact rooms where sealed combustion is needed.
Mid-Size Rooms: 17,000 BTU direct vent units provide balance between output and footprint for living rooms and larger bedrooms.
Large Spaces: High-output models and modulating wall furnaces (e.g., 25k–36k BTU) are better for open plans or larger rooms, with modulating units offering smoother temperature control.
Fuel Availability: Compare access to propane vs. natural gas in your area. If propane is your primary fuel, prioritize LP-designated models or verified LP variants.
Final Considerations Before Purchase
- Confirm Fuel Type: Verify that the listing matches your fuel supply (LP or NG).
- Verify Venting Path: Confirm that your wall can accommodate the required vent kit and termination clearances.
- Check Safety Features: Ensure sealed combustion, ODS or safety pilot, and pressure regulation are present.
- Professional Installation: Plan for certified installation to meet code and ensure safe operation.