Choosing a gas floor heater requires attention to fuel type, venting, safety, and placement. Below is a concise comparison of five gas heaters that are commonly considered for floor or freestanding placement in residential spaces. The selection highlights models that include base feet or offer versatile mounting options so they can function as floor heaters.
| Product | Type | BTU | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProCom MN300TBA-B | Ventless Blue Flame (Thermostat) | 30,000 | Thermostat control, heats up to 1,400 sq. ft., includes wall mount & base feet |
| ProCom MN300TPA-B | Ventless Infrared (Thermostat) | 30,000 | Infrared heating, thermostat, includes wall mount & base feet |
| ProCom MN300HBA-B | Ventless Blue Flame (Manual) | 30,000 | Manual control, piezo ignition, ODS safety shut-off, base feet included |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT | Vent Free Blue Flame (Wall Mount) | 30,000 | Thermostat, electric ignition, efficient blue flame convection |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF20NGT | Vent Free Blue Flame (Wall Mount) | 20,000 | Thermostat, electric ignition, suitable for smaller spaces |
ProCom MN300TBA-B Blue Flame Heater
Type: Ventless Blue Flame Space Heater with Thermostat. This ProCom model produces 30,000 BTU using natural gas and is rated to heat up to 1,400 sq. ft.
The unit includes thermostat control with High/Medium/Low settings and a slim, modern profile designed to fit against a wall or on the floor using the included base feet. The manufacturer lists the product as suitable for home and office use and emphasizes reliable heat flow and compact size.
Key features noted: thermostat control, ventless blue flame heating, and the option to mount or place on the floor. As a ventless heater, it relies on room air for combustion and should be used in accordance with local codes and ventilation guidance. The thermostat offers more precise temperature maintenance than manual-only units.
ProCom MN300TPA-B Infrared Heater
Type: Ventless Infrared Space Heater with Thermostat. Generates 30,000 BTU and claims coverage up to 1,400 sq. ft.
This infrared model is designed to radiate heat to objects and occupants directly rather than solely warming room air, which can create a different comfort perception compared with convection heat. It includes a thermostat with High/Medium/Low settings and comes with wall mounting hardware plus base feet for floor placement.
Features listed by the brand include infrared heating technology, compact design, and the flexibility to mount or stand. Infrared operation can be effective in spaces where rapid localized warmth is desirable. As with ventless units, consider room ventilation, oxygen depletion safety features, and applicable building or fire codes when installing.
ProCom MN300HBA-B Manual Blue Flame Heater
Type: Ventless Blue Flame Heater with Manual Controls. Rated at 30,000 BTU and noted to heat up to 1,400 sq. ft.
This ProCom manual model uses push-button piezo ignition and provides three heat settings: Low / Medium / High. It operates off natural gas only and includes an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) that automatically shuts off the unit if oxygen levels fall below safe thresholds. The package includes base feet for floor placement and wall-mount hardware.
The manual controls make it mechanically simple: no electric thermostat required. The presence of an ODS is a key safety element for ventless, floor-placed heaters. Note that manual units require the user to adjust settings versus thermostat-driven models that maintain a set temperature automatically.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT 30,000 BTU Heater
Type: Vent Free Blue Flame Natural Gas Heater. Delivers up to 30,000 BTU and is intended for areas up to about 1,000 sq. ft.
This Mr. Heater model is designed as a wall-mounted vent-free blue flame heater with a built-in thermostat and battery-assisted electric ignition. The manufacturer highlights fuel efficiency and consistent convection heating for evenly distributed warmth. While marketed primarily for wall mounting, many blue flame units are cited for flexible installation by users when local codes allow floor placement or base support.
Key features include precise thermostat control, blue flame burner efficiency, and electric ignition. Check installation instructions and local regulations before using wall-mounted units on the floor; proper clearances and venting rules must be observed for safe operation.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF20NGT 20,000 BTU Heater
Type: Vent Free Blue Flame Natural Gas Heater. Provides up to 20,000 BTU and is designed for spaces around 700 sq. ft.
The smaller Mr. Heater model offers convection warmth with an onboard thermostat and electric ignition. It is suitable for supplemental heating of single rooms and is rated effective up to elevations of approximately 4,500 feet. The unit emphasizes easy temperature control and fuel-efficient blue flame combustion.
Like other vent-free heaters, users should confirm compatibility with local codes and ensure adequate ventilation. While primarily a wall-mount design, it may be considered for floor placement only if manufacturer guidance and local regulations allow and clearances are maintained.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Gas Floor Heater
Selecting a gas floor heater involves multiple factors beyond BTU. Below are objective considerations to guide an informed purchase, with perspectives on safety, performance, and installation.
1. Fuel Type And Compatibility
- Natural Gas vs. Propane: Verify the unit is configured for your fuel source. Some models are natural gas only; others offer conversion kits. Manufacturer notes indicate whether conversion is permitted.
- Connection Requirements: Check supply pressure and fitting types. Professional installation may be necessary to meet code and ensure safe connection.
2. Venting Type And Installation
- Ventless (Vent-Free) Heaters: Offer high efficiency and simple installation but require room air for combustion and oxygen depletion sensors. Local codes may restrict ventless usage in bedrooms or small, tightly sealed spaces.
- Direct Vent / Vented Heaters: Exhaust combustion gases outside using a sealed system. These are often required where indoor air quality or building codes mandate venting.
- Wall-Mount vs. Floor Placement: Some models include base feet for floor placement; others are designed for wall mounting only. Confirm the manufacturer allows floor placement and follow required clearances.
3. Heating Method: Blue Flame, Infrared, Convection
- Blue Flame (Convection): Heats room air for even distribution; effective for general space heating.
- Infrared: Radiant warmth that heats people and objects directly; useful for targeted warmth and fast perceived heat.
- Product Fit: Choose based on whether you need whole-room warming (convection) or localized, immediate warmth (infrared).
4. BTU Output And Room Size
- Match Capacity To Space: Compare manufacturer-rated coverage (sq. ft.) to your room size. BTU capacity can vary with insulation and climate.
- Multiple Units: For uneven or very large spaces, multiple smaller heaters may provide more consistent comfort than one large unit.
5. Controls And Usability
- Thermostat vs. Manual: Thermostat models maintain set temperatures automatically. Manual units require user adjustment.
- Ignition Type: Piezo or battery-assisted electric ignition reduces the need for a standing pilot light; consider reliability and replacement battery requirements.
6. Safety Features
- Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS): Essential for ventless heaters to shut off the unit when oxygen drops below safe levels.
- Tip-Over and Overheat Protection: For floor-placed heaters, look for thermal sensors or other fail-safes that disable the unit in unsafe conditions.
- Clearances And Mounting Requirements: Follow manufacturer-specified clearances from combustible materials and floor height minimums.
7. Efficiency And Operating Considerations
- Fuel Consumption: BTU per hour indicates output but not direct cost; efficiency and local fuel rates determine operating expenses.
- Air Quality: Ventless combustion products remain in the room; ensure adequate ventilation and consider air quality impacts for sensitive occupants.
8. Codes, Regulations, And Professional Installation
- Local Regulations: Some jurisdictions restrict ventless heaters or require specific venting. Confirm local building and fire codes before purchase.
- Permits And Inspections: Installation may require permits or inspections, especially for gas line changes or direct-vent penetrations.
- Professional Installer: Use a licensed gas technician for connections and testing to ensure compliance and safety.
9. Maintenance And Longevity
- Routine Checks: Inspect burners, pilot/ignition components, and sensors periodically. Clean dust and debris to maintain performance.
- Parts Availability: Confirm replacement parts (thermostats, sensors, igniters) are available for the model selected.
10. Comparison Perspectives
- Performance: Compare intended coverage area and whether the heating method suits the space layout.
- Safety: Favor units with ODS and manufacturer documentation for floor placement if that is required.
- Installation Complexity: Ventless units often have simpler installs; direct vent systems require more work but improve indoor air quality.