If you are tired of cold winters, the best vent free propane heater can give you the relief you want. Cold indoor air can be uncomfortable and unhealthy. At the extreme, it can also affect fittings and electronics. You owe it to yourself and your home to keep warm.
Vent free propane heaters have become popular with homeowners looking to heat their homes. They are energy efficient, extremely safe to use and economical to operate.They are especially ideal for heating hard-to-heat areas like utility rooms, basements and sun porches.
Read our propane heater for basement guide for more inspiration on gas heaters to use in your basement.
The right vent free propane heater can also provide effective central heating to small spaces, such as kitchens,dining rooms, and bathrooms.
What are the Best Vent Free Propane Heaters?
Last update on 2023-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Vent free propane heaters come in all sorts of shapes and forms. If you are on the hunt for a new heater, you can easily get overwhelmed with the options available.
Lucky for you, we have scoured the internet to bring you the top vent free propane heaters on the market. Narrowing down your options to the units below will save you a significant amount of shopping time.
1. Rinnai FC824P
- Indoor Heater: Space heaters for indoor use have a warm air outlet with bottom front louvers and a cool-to-touch child-safe cabinet with a safety lock; ductless heater is vent- and hassle-free
- Smart Features: Energy-efficient space heater includes digital adaptive control, a programmable thermostat display, and self-diagnostics for simple smart heater maintenance
- Safe Settings: Electric heater features a flame failure device, overheat switch, oxygen depletion sensor, and tilt switch designed to automatically disable gas/power if the device overheats, overturns, or is extinguished
- Portable Design: Vent-free gas fan convection heater is suitable for homes, apartments, condominiums, and commercial settings; Portable heater is modular/mobile home approved
Last update on 2023-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rinnai has been in the heating business for a while now. Its heaters are renowned for their safety and efficiency, and the FC824P is no exception. It combines commendable power-saving and safety features, which makes it excellent for family use.
The FC824P is small and simple. It will blend in easily with your living room aesthetics. It is also relatively straightforward to install. Although a gas connection does not come with the unit, you can purchase one affordably. This unit is best placed on a sturdy base to avoid disconnecting the gas line. You can also mount it on the wall.
With a BTU range of 8,000 to 22,000 BTU, the FC824P provides more than enough power to heat spaces of up to 1,000 square feet. Its tilt switch automatically disables the gas supply if the heater topples over or gets disconnected. Meanwhile, the onboard Oxygen Depletion Sensor will keep track of the oxygen level in your room and switch off the heater when the levels are too low.
Even with all the safety functions, the FC824P is very user friendly. You can control the heating settings with the programmable thermostat and intuitive digital display. The heater’s surface remains cool to the touch, and you can lock the control panel to prevent unwanted tampering.
Overall, the Rinnai FC824P is a stellar vent-free propane heater. Admittedly, it is not the most budget-friendly heating device on the market. Nevertheless, you get your money’s worth.
Pros
- Simple, practical design
- Exemplary heating performance
- Wide range of safety features
- User-friendly
Con
- Relatively expensive
2. Rinnai FC510P
- Indoor Heater: Space heaters for indoor use have a warm air outlet with bottom front louvers and a cool-to-touch child-safe cabinet with a safety lock; ductless heater is vent- and hassle-free
- Smart Features: Energy-efficient space heater includes digital adaptive control, a programmable thermostat display, and self-diagnostics for simple smart heater maintenance
- Safe Settings: Electric heater features a flame failure device, overheat switch, oxygen depletion sensor, and tilt switch designed to automatically disable gas/power if the device overheats, overturns, or is extinguished
- Portable Design: Vent-free gas fan convection heater is suitable for homes, apartments, condominiums, and commercial settings; Portable heater is modular/mobile home approved
Last update on 2023-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The FC824P is arguably the best Rinnai vent free propane heater on the market. If your space is much smaller than 1000 square feet, however, you can save some money by getting the smaller FC510P.
This heater is designed to offer coziness discreetly. It is inconspicuous, regardless of placement. It also self-adjusts to keep your room temperature consistent without human intervention.
The Rinnai. FC510P produces heat from 5,600 to 10,000 BTUs, it should be good for rooms that are up to 150-300 square feet or 14-28 square meters. Furthermore, with an AFUE efficiency approval of 99.9%, the FC510P will hardly add to your energy bill.
For a heater of its size, it is remarkable that the FC510P comes with an integrated fan feature. The fan offers decent airflow. On the downside, it can get noisier at higher speeds.
Like the more capable FC824P, the FC510P boasts a comprehensive set of safety features. It replaces the more common pilot light ignition with a safer electronic push button. Moreover, the cool touch cabinet eliminates the possibility of getting burnt when moving the heater or changing settings. You also get a tilt switch for gas leak prevention.
All in all, the FC510P is an excellent choice for small and medium-sized rooms. It is relatively pricey, but Rinnai’s renowned safety features make it a worthy consideration.
Pros
- Discrete, practical design
- Push-button electronic ignition
- Commendable heating performance for its size
- Straightforward to install and operate
Cons
- The fan gets noisy at high speeds
- Relatively expensive
3. Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater
- 30,000 BTU Liquid Propane heater to heat spaces up to 750 square feet. Restricted in Canada
- Blue flame burner for even convection heat. Supplemental heat in cold rooms, Additions, Sun rooms, Cabins
- Automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS). CSA Certified. Fuel Consumption/Burn Rate (Gal/Hr) - 1.389 lbs/hr
- Operating this heater at altitudes over 4,500 FT above sea level could cause pilot/ODS to shutdown the heater.
- Theromostat, legs and wall mounting hardware included.Fuel Consumption/Burn Rate (Gal/Hr)
Last update on 2023-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It would be amusing if a brand called Mr. Heater had an underwhelming range of heaters. Fortunately for the company, this irony is not reality. All Mr. Heater products fare outstandingly in the market.
The F299730 bears a familiar Mr. Heater footprint. It keeps features to a minimum, while offering exceptional performance, all at an affordable price. Mr. Heater ships this unit with an installation kit for mounting on a wall or floor. For the best fit, however, you will perhaps be better off buying a separate kit than relying on the frail fittings that come with the F299730.
With a heat output of 30,000 BTU, this heater can comfortably heat up spaces of up to 750 square feet. And it doesn’t use too much propane – check out the 30000 BTU propane heater usage guide. Units like the 22,000 BTU Rinnai FC824P come with a fan for rapid air dispersion. However, the F299730 relies on the natural convection of the burn. It therefore takes relatively longer to achieve the temperature you want.
Despite its modest outlook on features, the Mr. Heater F299730 manages to sport some decent safety functions. For instance, you get a battery powered electronic ignition system for easy startup. Additionally, the Oxygen Depletion Sensor monitors oxygen levels and shuts off the unit when the oxygen in the room drops below optimum.
The Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 may not be the rosiest vent free propane heater on the market. Regardless, it is an excellent option for shoppers looking to heat up their medium-sized spaces on a budget.
Pros
- Simple design
- Decent heating performance
- Commendable safety features
- Affordable price
Cons
- Disappointing installation kit
- Lacks a fan to aid in air dispersion
4. PROCOM HEATING MGT20BF
- Dual fuel – can operate with either natural gas or liquid propane
- Push button ignition with thermostat control
- 5 heat settings with micro heat adjustments between each setting
- Includes oxygen depletion sensor for added safety
Last update on 2023-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Flexibility is always a good thing for home appliances. As a dual-fuel unit, the Procom MGT20BF can run on either liquid propane or natural gas. With this feature, it offers the flexibility of switching from one fuel type to the other, depending on your current budget.
Nothing much can be said about the design of the Procom MGT20BF other than it is simple and discrete. If you are a tech enthusiast, the dated aesthetics will likely disappoint you. On the flip side, it is straightforward to install. Unlike the Mr. Heater F299730 above, this unit comes with a reliable installation kit.
The Procom MGT20BF has a commendable heat output of 30,000 BTU. It can heat areas that are up to 1,000 square feet in size. As expected, the unit performs better when using natural gas than liquid propane. Regardless of the fuel type, it achieves the desired warmth quickly and maintains it effortlessly.
Extra features are relatively scant in the Procom MGT20BF. You will not find niceties like a digital display or smart features like a tilt switch. Fortunately, a thermostat is not excluded. You can leave the heater on and it will maintain the temperature you want automatically. The heater also uses push-button piezo technology for safer ignition. Moreover, its cool-touch cabinet makes it safe to use around children.
The PROCOM MGT20BF does not come with many bells and whistles. Nevertheless, its flexibility and affordability make it an excellent vent free heater.
Pros
- Dual-fuel operation
- Straightforward installation with the included kit
- Excellent heating performance
- Admirable convenience features
- Affordable
Cons
- Bland aesthetics
- Lacks some common smart features
5. Mr. Heater Big Buddy MH18B Portable Propane Heater
- 4, 000, 9, 000, or 18, 000 BTU per hour
- Heats up to 450 sq. ft.
- Hi-Med-Low heat settings
- Automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS) and accidental tip-over safety shut-off
- THE USE OF UN-AUTHORIZED ACCESSORIES/ATTACHMENTS WITH THIS HEATER ARE EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED, MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, AND WILL VOID THE .
Last update on 2023-09-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Mr. Heater’s Big Buddy MH18B is just like it says in the name. It is a relatively big heater that offers enough heating performance to buy your friendship. It is not the most attractive unit but it is sturdy, reliable and portable..
This model has a BTU rating of a minimum of 4,000 and a maximum of 18,000 per hour. The heater can heat up to 450 Square feet. Because of its robust build, campers also recommend the MH18B for outdoor heating.
This Mr. Heater model has two swivel regulators. You can therefore use either a disposable gas cylinder or a remote gas supply. All you need to do is buy a single hose and filter. Whichever mode you choose, the MH18B will not emit any fumes.
Modern vent free propane heaters replace pilot lights with electronic or piezo ignitions. It is, therefore, rather disappointing that the MH18B still uses this dated system. To prevent accidents, it is best to turn off the propane when you are not using the unit.
The MH18B has an automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS). ODS automatically turns the heater off when the oxygen levels fall too low. It also comes with a fan to aid in air dispersion. The fan requires an AC adapter or four D-batteries, which do not come with the device. Some users have expressed concerns that the fan gets significantly noisier when on AC adapter than on batteries.
All things considered, Mr. Heater’s MH18B is a decent vent free propane heater. Its safety and convenience features are comparatively uninspiring. Regardless, it offers excellent reliability and durability at an affordable price.
Pros
- Robust, reliable build
- Dual swivel regulators for flexible gas supply
- Great performance
- Onboard air dispersion fan
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Comparatively unattractive design
- Older pilot light ignition system
- Fan can get noisier when using an AC adapter
6. Dyna-Glo BF30PMDG
- Liquid Propane Ready (Fuel conversion not permitted)
- Blue Flame Technology works by convecting heat to warm the air the same way as a central heating system
- 24,000-30,000 BTU's/hr variable heat output for up to 1,000 sq. ft
- Variable control knob offers the most customizable heat settings LOW - 24,000 BTU MED - 27,000 BTU HI - 30,000 BTU
- No electricity required allows for reliable back-up heating incase of an emergency situation
Last update on 2023-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This vent free propane heater from Dyna-Glo is an ideal choice for safe and efficient indoor heating. It does not require electricity to operate. This makes it especially favorable for emergency situations. Moreover, it uses infrared technology, which distributes heat in a way that is similar to your central home heating system.
Dyna-Glo ships the BF30PMDG with all the necessary hardware for installation. You can mount its base on the floor or secure it to a wall.
The Dyna-Glo BF30PMDG has a heat output of 30,000BTU. It performs outstandingly when deployed in rooms up to 700 square feet. It does not come with a fan, but you can buy the WHF100. This optional fan distributes heat in a quiet yet powerful way.
This vent free quiet propane heater does not feature a thermostat. Instead, it relies on manual adjustments to achieve your desired temperature. Fortunately, it does not omit an oxygen depletion sensor. The ODS effectively monitors oxygen levels as the heater heats up your home. Also commendable is the battery powered ignition system, which makes start-up effortless.
The Dyna-Glo BF30PMDG is a worthy purchase for any shopper that is looking for an economical and efficient ventless propane heater.
Pros
- Non-electric operation
- Infrared heat dispersion
- Dual swivel regulators for flexible gas supply
- Great performance
- Affordable
Cons
- The fan comes separately
- Lacks an inbuilt thermostat
The Best Vent Free Propane Heater
The propane heaters above are all excellent in their own right. If we had to choose the best, however, the prize would undoubtedly go to the Rinnai FC824P. It offers the best blend of performance and safety features. Its design is also practical and pleasant. Furthermore, although it is not the cheapest device on our list, it offers commendable value for the money.
If the FC824P is a bit beyond your budget, you can manage with our second best unit, the Mr. Heater Corporation F299730. You will not get Rinnai’s comprehensive safety features, but it performs outstandingly for its price.
How to Buy the Best Vent free Propane Heater
When shopping for the right vent free propane heater, knowing the top units on the market only equips you halfway. You also need to know what to look for in a heater.
Considering the features below will give you the best chance of landing the right unit for you.
-
Design
Look, feel and practicality are all key aspects that you must take into account when buying a vent free propane heater. The heating unit you settle on needs to blend well with the aesthetics of your space.
If you have limited wall room, it will also pay to consider the size of your unit. Think about the installation options you can explore and choose the most favorable one before you go out shopping. You can even take measurements to avoid potential installation mistakes.
-
Safety
When given the right attention, vent free propane heaters are generally safe to use. However, human attention is fluid. Therefore, it is best to go for a unit that offers the most comprehensive set of safety features.
Heaters like the Rinnai FC510P come with safety functions like a tilt cut-off switch, and a cool-touch casing. These features make them excellent options for safety-conscious buyers, especially those with kids or pets in the house.
Most vent free propane heaters produce carbon dioxide. When the oxygen levels drop, the combustion level lowers and the heater can produce carbon monoxide. This gas is toxic when inhaled.
When buying a heater, ensure it has the Oxygen Depletion Sensors(ODS). This sensor will automatically shut off the heater when the oxygen levels are low.
Safety features give you peace of mind by assuring you that your unit has little to no chance of poisoning someone or causing a fire. Keep in mind, however, that these functions can drive up a unit’s price.
-
Performance
The heating output of a vent free propane heater gives you a picture of how effective it will be at heating your space. This output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). Generally, a higher BTU rating translates to better heating performance.
As you might expect, the size of room you intend to heat is a defining factor of the effectiveness of your heater. In fact, propane heater manufacturers typically indicate the floor-space size that corresponds to a unit’s BTU rating.
A unit whose heating output is lower than the recommended value for your room size will work harder to achieve the temperature you want. On the other hand, a heater that can produce more heat than your room can handle is more likely to cause overheating and oxygen deficiency problems.
So, before going out to shop, measure your room size. That way you will be sure you are getting the unit with the optimum output for you.
-
Convenience
Like most modern home appliances, vent free propane heaters offer some features to make using them easy and enjoyable.
For instance, a fair number of heaters come with an inbuilt thermostat for autonomous temperature control. Meanwhile, a rugged model like the Mr. Heater Big Buddy MH18B can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Models like the PROCOM MGT20BF offer more than one fuel-type option. They provide the convenience of being able to choose either fuel type, depending on availability or price. Others, like the Rinnai FC824P come with a digital display for intuitive control.
As expected, these convenience features come at an additional price. If you are on a budget, go for the unit that offers just what you need.
Wrapping Up
The best vent free propane heater is an ideal option for supplementing heat. It is portable, user-friendly and cost-effective. Additionally, most units are straightforward to install and maintain.
We have no doubt that our post has cleared your path towards owning the right heater. The top products on the market will spare you significant shopping time. By using our buying tips to compare these products, you can easily land yourself the best unit for your home.
