The following guide compares several 15,000 BTU heating options across categories: PTAC units, RV rooftop heat pumps, portable propane heaters, and direct-vent wall furnaces. Each product listing pulls features from the manufacturer description to help you match capacity, installation needs, fuel type, and control options to your space.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Cooper & Hunter PTAC (Sleeve Included) | Packaged Terminal Heat Pump | All-in-one PTAC with built-in electric heater, sleeve & grille |
| Cooper & Hunter PTAC (No Sleeve) | Packaged Terminal Heat Pump | PTAC with wireless smart kit and electric heater (sleeve not included) |
| TOSOT GO Cool RV 15000 BTU | Rooftop RV Heat Pump A/C | WiFi control, 15,000 BTU cooling with heat pump heating |
| Klimaire 15000 BTU PTAC + 5kW Heater | PTAC Heat Pump with Auxiliary Heater | Seamless 42″ replacement, bundled 5 kW electric backup |
| Mr. Heater 15,000 BTU Portable Propane | Portable Propane Radiant Heater | Tank-mounted radiant heater with multi-stage output |
Cooper & Hunter 15,000 BTU PTAC With Sleeve
This packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) combines a heat pump and a 3.5 kW electric heater for year-round comfort. The unit ships with a power cord, wall sleeve, and grille, simplifying installation in standard 42″ wall sleeves. Cooling capacity is listed at approximately 14,700/14,500 BTU/h, with heat pump heating capacity around 13,500/13,200 BTU/h and the electric heater offering additional output. It uses R-32 refrigerant and is designed for 208-230V, 1Ph, 60Hz operation with a 20A plug and reset breaker. Ideal for hotels, apartments, or retrofit projects where sleeve and grille inclusion reduces extra purchases. For new installations, confirm compatible electrical receptacle and inlet sleeve dimensions prior to purchase.
Cooper & Hunter 15,000 BTU PTAC No Sleeve
This PTAC model offers the same core performance metrics as other Cooper & Hunter units but ships without the wall sleeve and exterior grille. It features a heat pump with 13,500/13,200 BTU/h heating capacity and an integrated 3.5 kW electric heater providing additional auxiliary heat. Cooling is rated near 14,700/14,500 BTU/h. The unit includes a wireless smart kit and remote control for convenient operation. Designed for 230/208V single-phase power and charged with R-32 refrigerant, it requires confirmed compatibility with existing installations—new builds will need separate sleeve and grille purchases.
TOSOT GO Cool RV 15000 BTU Rooftop
Designed for RV and camper applications, this rooftop unit provides 15,000 BTU cooling and a heat pump heating mode rated around 12,000 BTU. It covers larger RV spaces and operates across wide outdoor temperatures. Built-in WiFi control allows smartphone management via a mobile app, and the unit is marketed for compatibility with RV lengths roughly 16–24 feet depending on insulation and load. The design emphasizes travel durability and non-ducted rooftop installation patterns common to RV applications. Verify vehicle rooftop opening compatibility and power requirements before ordering.
Klimaire 15,000 BTU PTAC With 5kW Heater
The Klimaire PTAC unit is optimized as a direct replacement for standard 42″ x 16″ wall sleeves, making it suited to retrofit projects. Cooling capacity is listed at 14,700/14,500 BTU/h with heat pump heating near 13,500/13,200 BTU/h. It includes a bundled 5.0 kW auxiliary electric heater to boost heating performance during colder conditions. The unit uses R-32 refrigerant and notes an EER around 10.6. Included accessories such as a drain kit and remote control support installation convenience. Electrical specification includes a 30A plug (LCDI 6-30P), so ensure compatible power supply and breaker sizing.
Mr. Heater 15,000 BTU Portable Propane
This single-burner radiant propane heater mounts directly to a 20 lb propane tank for portable heating where electricity is not desired or available. Output is adjustable across High, Medium, and Low settings—rated up to 15,000 BTU. The unit includes a tip-over safety shut-off switch and an integrated regulator. Portability, fuel type, and radiant operation make it suitable for garages, outdoor workshops, and temporary heating scenarios. It is not intended for enclosed living spaces without proper ventilation; follow fuel and combustion safety guidance when using indoors or in semi-enclosed areas.
Empire DV215 15,000 BTU Wall Furnace
The Empire DV215 is a direct vent natural gas wall furnace rated at 15,000 BTU. It includes venting and a vent cap and is sized for wall-mounted installation with dimensions provided by the manufacturer. Direct vent combustion pulls outdoor air for combustion and exhausts flue gases outside, improving indoor air quality compared with unvented gas heaters. The unit is designed for continuous space heating in spot-heat or primary-heat scenarios where natural gas service is available. Confirm local codes and professional installation requirements for gas appliances.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A 15,000 BTU Heater
Selecting the right 15,000 BTU heater depends on space type, fuel source, installation constraints, and performance expectations. Use the following considerations to narrow choices.
Space Type And Heating Load
Estimate the square footage and insulation quality of the area to be heated. A 15,000 BTU rating typically serves roughly 400–600 sq ft depending on insulation, ceiling height, and climate. PTAC and wall furnaces are best for rooms or suites, rooftop RV units for mobile living spaces, and portable propane for spot or temporary heating.
Fuel Source And Availability
Choose between electric (PTAC with electric backup), heat pump (electric-driven, often more efficient), propane (portable and off-grid), or natural gas (direct vent, continuous fuel). Match the appliance to your on-site utilities and preferences for fuel cost and convenience.
Installation Requirements
Consider mounting and venting needs. PTAC units require a compatible wall sleeve or sleeve kit, and rooftop RV units require matching roof openings and mounting hardware. Gas appliances need certified venting and professional gas connections. Verify electrical supply: some PTACs list 20A plugs while models with higher auxiliary heaters may require 30A or dedicated circuits.
Heating Performance And Backup Heat
Assess whether a heat pump alone meets your winter needs or if an auxiliary electric or gas backup is necessary for colder climates. Units with supplemental kW ratings provide stronger heat during low outdoor temperatures when heat pump efficiency drops.
Controls And Smart Features
Look for thermostatic controls, remote operation, and WiFi functionality if remote monitoring or integration with smart home systems matters. For RVs, app control can simplify climate management while mobile.
Safety Features
Check for tip-over shutoffs on portable gas units, flame failure protection on gas heaters, and proper certifications for indoor use. Direct vent units avoid indoor combustion air usage, enhancing safety for occupied spaces.
Noise And Comfort
Consider fan noise, airflow patterns, and whether the heater distributes heat via convection, radiant output, or forced air. PTAC and rooftop heat pumps typically provide quieter, more even conditioning than small portable units.
Energy Efficiency And Operating Cost
Heat pumps often offer higher efficiency per BTU delivered vs. straight resistance electric heat. Compare EER or COP ratings for electric-driven units. For gas and propane options, consider local fuel pricing and consumption patterns rather than sticker BTU alone.
Installation And Replacement Compatibility
If replacing an existing PTAC, verify sleeve dimensions and mounting patterns; units like Klimaire advertise compatibility with standard 42″ x 16″ sleeves. For rooftop RV units, confirm roof curb dimensions and wiring match. For gas appliances, consult local codes and use licensed technicians.
Comparison Perspectives
- Residential/PTAC vs. Wall Furnace: PTACs offer cooling plus heat pump heating with optional electric backup. Wall furnaces provide continuous natural gas heat without cooling capability.
- Rooftop RV Units vs. Portable Propane: Rooftop heat pumps integrate with RV power systems for year-round comfort and climate control features; propane portables provide off-grid spot heat but require ventilation considerations.
- Heat Pump Efficiency vs. Auxiliary Electric: Heat pumps are more efficient at moderate outdoor temperatures; auxiliary electric heaters provide reliable output in extreme cold but increase electrical load.
When choosing, prioritize installation compatibility, fuel availability, safety features, and efficiency. Verify electrical and mechanical specifications before purchasing to ensure a compliant and effective heating solution for your intended space.