Natural gas space heaters are a practical option for supplemental indoor heat in homes, garages, sunrooms, and offices. Below is a compact comparison of the five selected heaters from reliable brands, followed by detailed product sections and a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the right indoor natural gas heater.
| Model | Type | BTU | Coverage | Controls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProCom MN300TBA-B | Ventless Blue Flame | 30,000 | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. | Thermostat (High/Med/Low) |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF20NGT | Vent-Free Blue Flame | 20,000 | Up To 700 Sq. Ft. | Thermostat, Electric Ignition |
| Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 | Infrared Wall Heater | 30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. | Infrared Radiant Output |
| ProCom MN300TPA-B | Ventless Infrared | 30,000 | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. | Thermostat (High/Med/Low) |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT | Vent-Free Blue Flame | 30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. | Thermostat, Electric Ignition |
ProCom MN300TBA-B Ventless Blue Flame Heater
This ventless blue flame heater delivers 30,000 BTU and is rated to heat up to 1,400 sq. ft. The unit is designed for indoor residential use, including bedrooms, offices, and living areas. It includes both wall mount hardware and base feet to give installation flexibility.
Controls include a built-in thermostat with High/Medium/Low settings for adjustable heat output. The product highlights a redesigned slim profile to reduce footprint while maintaining effective convection and radiant components of a blue flame system. The heater runs on natural gas and is intended as a supplemental or primary localized heat source.
Safety and operational notes: as a ventless model, confirm local codes and room ventilation requirements before installation. The heater’s control layout and included mounting options support both floor and wall placement for adaptable placement in rooms.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF20NGT 20,000 BTU Heater
This vent-free blue flame wall heater produces up to 20,000 BTU, suitable for spaces up to 700 sq. ft. It uses convection heat to distribute warmth evenly, making it suitable for cold rooms, additions, or sunrooms.
Key features include an intuitive thermostat and an electric ignition powered by the included battery for reliable start-up. Efficiency is emphasized by the blue flame burner consuming a modest amount of gas per hour relative to output.
Installation points: designed for wall-mount use, it includes controls intended for simple user adjustments. Check altitude ratings if installing above 4,500 feet and ensure compliance with vent-free appliance regulations in your jurisdiction.
Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 Infrared Wall Heater
The Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 is a natural gas infrared heater offering 30,000 BTU and radiant heating that warms objects and people directly rather than primarily heating the air. Rated for areas up to 1,000 sq. ft., it mimics the sun-like warming effect common to infrared systems.
This unit is noted as natural gas ready with infrared technology that delivers targeted heat. Infrared models can be effective in spaces where rapid, directional warmth is preferred, such as garages, workspaces, or rooms with higher ceilings where air convection might be less efficient.
Considerations: radiant performance depends on line-of-sight and placement; objects between heater and occupants may reduce perceived warmth. Consult installation requirements to ensure safe spacing and mounting for optimal radiant coverage.
ProCom MN300TPA-B Ventless Infrared Heater
The ProCom MN300TPA-B uses infrared technology to provide 30,000 BTU of heat, with stated coverage up to 1,400 sq. ft. It is offered as a compact infrared mini heater that can be mounted on a wall or placed with included base feet.
Controls incorporate a thermostat with High/Medium/Low settings, allowing targeted adjustments. As an infrared ventless model, it focuses on warming objects and living spaces directly and provides an alternative to blue flame convection heat for certain room types.
Installation and safety: verify local codes for ventless infrared operation, and confirm minimum clearances and oxygen depletion sensor presence as required for safe indoor gas heater operation.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT 30,000 BTU Wall Heater
This model provides 30,000 BTU of vent-free blue flame heat suitable for spaces up to 1,000 sq. ft. It is intended as a wall-mount space heater for cold rooms, additions, and sunrooms where consistent convection heat is desired.
The unit features a convenient thermostat and includes a battery to power the reliable electric ignition system. Fuel-efficient blue flame combustion is highlighted for steady, even warmth with minimized gas consumption for output class.
Safety and operational notes: intended for indoor wall mounting and rated to function effectively at altitudes up to 4,500 feet. Check local code allowances for vent-free appliances and ensure appropriate room sizing and clearance before installation.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Indoor Natural Gas Space Heater
This guide covers key considerations to compare vent-free blue flame, ventless infrared, and radiant options for indoor natural gas heating. Use these factors to match a heater to your space and needs.
1. Heater Type And Heat Delivery
Blue flame/vent-free heaters typically deliver convection heat, warming the room air and providing even distribution. Infrared/radiant heaters heat objects and people directly, delivering fast, localized warmth. Choose convection for whole-room comfort and infrared for targeted, rapid heating.
2. BTU Rating And Room Size
Match BTU output to room size and insulation level. As a general reference, 20,000 BTU30,000 BTU
3. Ventless vs Ventilated Options
Ventless (vent-free) heaters offer installation flexibility and higher efficiency since heat isn’t lost through flues, but they require compliance with local codes and may need minimum room size or ventilation. Direct vent or sealed combustion units reduce indoor combustion byproducts but require venting.
4. Thermostat And Control Features
Integrated thermostats and multiple heat settings provide precise comfort control and better fuel economy. Electric ignition systems simplify start-up and improve reliability compared to manual pilot lights. Consider models with user-friendly controls for daily convenience.
5. Safety Systems And Certifications
Look for oxygen depletion sensors (ODS), automatic shut-off features, and safety certifications relevant to your region. For ventless units, ODS is critical to detect low-oxygen conditions and prevent hazardous operation.
6. Installation Flexibility And Mounting
Wall-mount heaters save floor space; models with included base feet offer portable placement. Verify clearances, mounting hardware, and whether professional installation is recommended to meet code and gas line connection standards.
7. Fuel Efficiency And Operating Profile
Blue flame burners typically advertise fuel efficiency in terms of gas consumption rates for given BTU output. Compare consumption rates and expected run times to estimate operational use. Radiant heaters may feel warmer at lower air temperatures, reducing runtime for comfort.
8. Indoor Air Quality And Ventilation
Ventless combustion adds moisture and small amounts of combustion byproducts to indoor air. Ensure adequate ventilation, especially in smaller rooms. Consider homes with existing HVAC ventilation or choose direct vent options where indoor air quality is a priority.
9. Altitude And Environmental Considerations
Some models specify altitude ratings; performance and combustion can vary at higher elevations. Verify manufacturer guidance for installations above specified altitudes to maintain safe, efficient operation.
10. Maintenance And Serviceability
Periodic inspection of burners, pilot or igniters, and gas fittings is required. Choose units with accessible service panels and established brand support for replacement parts and service guidance to ensure long-term reliability.
Comparison Perspectives
- Whole-Room Consistent Comfort: Vent-free blue flame units deliver broad convection heat and are suitable for general room heating when allowed by code.
- Targeted Rapid Warmth: Infrared/radiant heaters like the Dyna-Glo are effective for quickly warming occupants and work areas, especially in spaces with higher ceilings.
- Installation Flexibility: Wall-mounted units that include base feet offer versatile placement options to suit layout constraints.
- Indoor Air Impact: Vented units or sealed combustion minimize indoor combustion products; ventless units are efficient but require attention to ventilation and room suitability.
Use the factors above to evaluate models based on your room size, ventilation allowances, preferred heat delivery (convection vs. radiant), and available mounting options. Confirm local building codes and consult a licensed gas technician for final installation and safety checks.