Vented wall heaters provide controlled combustion and direct venting to the outside, improving indoor air quality while delivering consistent heat. Below is a quick comparison of five vented wall heaters selected for performance, safety features, and coverage.
| Product | Fuel Type | BTU | Approx. Coverage | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rinnai EX22DTWN Direct Vent Wall Furnace | Natural Gas | 21,500 | Medium to Large Rooms | Modulating Technology, Cool-To-Touch Cabinet |
| Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent | Natural Gas | 25,000 | Up To 825 sq. ft. | Sealed Burn System, Large Coverage |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent (Natural Gas) | Natural Gas | 17,000 | Up To 570 sq. ft. | Space-Saving Wall Mount |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent (Propane) | Liquid Propane | 17,000 | Up To 570 sq. ft. | Sealed Burn, Pressure Regulator |
| EMPIRE DV215 NG 15,000 BTU Direct Vent | Natural Gas | 15,000 | Small To Medium Rooms | Venting And Vent Cap Included |
Rinnai EX22DTWN Direct Vent Heater
The Rinnai EX22DTWN is a direct vent wall furnace designed for indoor natural gas installations. It uses modulating technology to adjust heat output and reduce temperature swings, which helps eliminate cold spots across a space. The unit features a cool-to-the-touch cabinet, a safety benefit for homes with children or pets, and self-diagnostic electronics that assist troubleshooting during operation. Energy efficiency is highlighted by its ability to match heat output to demand, reducing fuel consumption without sacrificing comfort. The model is intended for wall-mounted applications and integrates with direct venting systems to direct combustion products outdoors for improved indoor air quality.
Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent
The Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU direct vent natural gas wall heater is designed for larger areas, with a listed heating capacity up to 825 sq. ft. It uses a sealed burn system and a safety pilot with a built-in pressure regulator to stop gas flow if the pilot is extinguished. The product emphasizes a space-saving design for wall mounting, with dimensions that allow installation in many living areas. The sealed combustion chamber and venting arrangement help keep indoor air free of combustion byproducts while providing continuous vented heat output suited to larger rooms or open-plan spaces.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent NG
The Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU natural gas direct vent wall heater offers coverage for spaces up to 570 sq. ft. Like other Comfort Glow models, it includes a sealed burn system and safety pilot with a built-in pressure regulator to prevent gas flow if the pilot goes out. The model’s space-saving wall-mount design and compact footprint make it suitable for rooms where floor space is limited. Direct vent construction routes combustion exhaust outdoors, maintaining indoor air quality while delivering a rated BTU output appropriate for medium-sized rooms.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent LP
The Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU liquid propane direct vent wall heater is built to heat up to 570 sq. ft. and features the same sealed burn system and Matchless Piezo Ignition found on other Comfort Glow vented models. It also includes a safety pilot and pressure regulator to stop gas flow if the pilot extinguishes. The appliance is intended for wall mounting and is offered in a design that minimizes intrusion into living space. This propane variant is for installations where propane is the available fuel and direct venting is required by code or preference.
EMPIRE DV215 NG 15,000 BTU Direct Vent
The EMPIRE DV215 NG direct vent wall furnace produces 15,000 BTU and is intended for small to medium rooms. The unit’s dimensions are listed at roughly 20 1/4″ W x 9 3/8″ D x 24 7/8″ H, and it includes venting and a vent cap to support installation. Direct vent construction separates combustion air from indoor air, channeling exhaust outdoors. The model focuses on straightforward wall-mounted installation using the included vent kit and is intended for natural gas supply lines, offering a compact footprint for limited wall space.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Vented Wall Heater
Selecting the right vented wall heater requires matching fuel type, venting method, capacity, and safety features to your home and local code requirements. Below are key considerations and comparison perspectives to guide a purchase.
1. Fuel Type And Availability
Natural Gas vs Propane: Choose the fuel type that matches your home supply. Natural gas units typically connect to municipal lines, while liquid propane units require tank supply and regulated plumbing. Fuel choice affects operating cost, local code, and conversion possibilities.
2. Venting Method And Installation
Direct Vent systems draw combustion air from outside and exhaust to the outdoors via dedicated venting. Confirm whether the model includes venting components and whether your wall can accept the vent termination. Some units come with a vent cap or kit; others require separate vent piping. Installation complexity varies: through-wall venting is common for these units and may need a professional installer.
3. Heating Capacity And Room Size
Match the unit’s BTU rating to the room or zone size. Manufacturers often provide an estimated coverage area (e.g., 570 sq. ft., 825 sq. ft.). Consider ceiling height, insulation quality, and open floor plans—higher ceilings and poor insulation typically require higher BTU output. If uncertain, consult a heating professional for heat-load calculations.
4. Efficiency And Modulation
Some units include modulating technology that adjusts flame or burner output to maintain consistent temperatures and reduce fuel consumption. Modulation can reduce cycling, deliver more even heat, and improve comfort compared with fixed-output units. Compare energy-saving features and manufacturer performance claims when efficiency is a priority.
5. Safety Features
Look for sealed combustionor sealed burn systems to keep combustion gases isolated. Safety pilots with pressure regulators help stop gas flow if the pilot goes out. Some products include self-diagnostic electronics or cool-to-touch cabinets; these features help with safe operation and user confidence. Ensure units meet relevant safety standards and local code for vented heating appliances.
6. Controls And Thermostat Options
Consider how you will control the heater: built-in thermostats, wall-mounted remote thermostats, or integration with a central control system. Precision controls and programmable thermostats can improve comfort and efficiency. Confirm whether the chosen model supports the type of thermostat you prefer.
7. Physical Size And Mounting
Check dimensionsto ensure the heater fits the planned wall location and leaves required clearances. Wall-mounted units are available in different widths and depths; measure carefully to avoid obstructions. Space-saving designs are useful in rooms with limited wall area.
8. Noise And Air Movement
Some vented wall heaters use fans or blowers to distribute warm air; others rely on convection. If quiet operation is important, compare product descriptions and user feedback regarding noise. Blower-equipped units may provide faster heat distribution but can be louder and require additional maintenance.
9. Maintenance And Serviceability
Review recommended maintenance tasks: pilot inspection, vent clearance, and periodic professional servicing. Check whether replacement parts and service support are available for the brand. Features like self-diagnostics can simplify troubleshooting, while sealed systems may require less frequent interior cleaning.
10. Code Compliance And Permits
Vented heaters are subject to local building and fuel-gas codes. Confirm permit and installation requirements in your jurisdiction. Direct vent installations typically require proper vent terminations and clearances. Use licensed contractors where required to ensure safety and code compliance.
11. Comparison Perspectives
- Performance vs Size: Higher BTU units cover larger spaces but require more clearances and fuel delivery capacity.
- Efficiency vs Cost: Modulating and sealed combustion units tend to be more efficient; weigh efficiency gains against installation costs.
- Installation Complexity vs Convenience: Units with included vent kits and simple wall-mount templates reduce installation complexity; custom vent runs increase cost and time.
- Safety vs Maintenance: Additional safety features like pressure regulators and self-diagnostics improve operation but may add complexity during servicing.
- Fuel Flexibility: If your household can switch fuel types, consider models with conversion kits or choose the fuel that provides long-term availability.
12. Pre-Purchase Checklist
- Confirm available fuel type (natural gas or propane).
- Measure the installation wall and check required clearances.
- Verify the BTU rating matches room size and heat loss.
- Ensure venting path is feasible and permitted by code.
- Review safety features: sealed combustion, pressure regulators, pilot protection.
- Decide on thermostat/control compatibility and desired accuracy.
- Plan for professional installation if needed and confirm warranty terms.