Quick Overview: This guide compares indoor propane heaters with vented and vent-free designs, highlighting safety features, heating capacity, and installation notes to help choose the right unit for living spaces, garages, or additions.
| Product | Type | BTU | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Direct Vent | Direct Vent | 11,000 | Up To 375 Sq. Ft. |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent | Direct Vent | 17,000 | Up To 570 Sq. Ft. |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF20LPT 20,000 BTU Blue Flame | Vent-Free (Blue Flame) | 20,000 | Up To 700 Sq. Ft. |
| Mr. Heater 30,000 BTU Vent Free Radiant | Vent-Free (Radiant) | 30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Dyna-Glo 30,000 BTU Blue Flame Vent Free | Vent-Free (Blue Flame) | 24,000–30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Direct Vent Liquid Propane Gas Wall Heater
This direct vent propane wall heater provides 11,000 BTU and is rated to heat up to 375 sq. ft. It uses a sealed burn system and includes a Matchless Piezo Ignition and a safety pilot with built-in pressure regulation. The design is compact for wall mounting and measures approximately 20 H x 17 W x 7 D inches. The sealed combustion and direct venting pull combustion air from the outdoors and exhaust outside, reducing indoor combustion byproducts.
Consider this model when indoor air quality and sealed combustion are priorities for a medium-sized room or addition. Installation requires a proper vent path and adherence to local codes for direct-vent appliances.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Liquid Propane Gas Wall Heater
This larger direct vent unit delivers 17,000 BTU and is rated for spaces up to 570 sq. ft. Like its smaller sibling, it features a sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo Ignition, and a safety pilot with a pressure regulator that stops gas flow if the pilot extinguishes. The larger faceplate (27.3″ wide) makes it suitable for wider wall openings and larger rooms.
The direct vent configuration ensures combustion gases are vented outdoors, improving indoor air safety. Installation considerations include vent length, termination location, and compliance with local building codes and manufacturer instructions.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF20LPT 20,000 BTU Blue Flame Vent Free Propane Heater
This vent-free blue flame heater produces 20,000 BTU and is intended for use up to 700 sq. ft. It includes an electronic battery-powered ignition and an adjustable thermostat. The unit features an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) that shuts the heater off if low-oxygen conditions are detected, a common safety requirement for vent-free appliances.
Vent-free units like this convert combustion products into water vapor and small amounts of nitrogen oxides and CO, releasing them indoors. They provide high efficiency and easy installation but require attention to ventilation, occupancy, and local code restrictions governing vent-free use indoors.
Mr. Heater 30,000 BTU Vent Free Radiant Propane Heater
This vent-free radiant wall heater delivers 30,000 BTU of sun-like heat and is rated for spaces up to 1,000 sq. ft. It uses multiple burner tiles for infrared heat that warms objects and people directly. The model emphasizes fuel efficiency and long runtime at high output, and it lists fuel consumption figures for planning cylinder needs.
Radiant vent-free heaters provide immediate warmth to occupants and surfaces but share the same indoor combustion considerations as other vent-free units. Verify local regulations and indoor air exchange before selecting a vent-free infrared heater for living spaces.
Dyna-Glo 30,000 BTU Liquid Propane Blue Flame Vent Free Wall Heater
The Dyna-Glo blue flame model offers variable output from 24,000–30,000 BTU and is rated for areas up to 1,000 sq. ft. Blue flame technology convects warm air to heat rooms similarly to central systems. This unit is vent-free, with direct indoor combustion and typically requires minimal installation effort compared to vented systems.
Blue flame vent-free heaters are efficient for whole-room heating but require monitoring of indoor humidity and ventilation. Ensure compliance with local codes and follow manufacturer recommendations for clearance and placement.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Indoor Propane Heater
Vented vs. Vent-Free: Direct ventpower ventedVent-free
Room Size & BTU Capacity: Match BTU output to room square footage. As a rule of thumb, higher BTU units heat larger spaces; consider insulation, ceiling height, and cold climate exposure when sizing.
Heating Mode: Blue Flame/ConvectionRadiant/Infrared
Safety Features: For indoor use, prioritize models with an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS)
Installation Requirements: Vented heaters need proper venting, exterior terminations, and clearance; direct venting often requires a pass-through or coaxial vent. Vent-free units typically have simpler installation but must meet specific room size and ventilation criteria.
Indoor Air Quality Considerations: Vented systems minimize indoor combustion byproducts. Vent-free units increase indoor moisture and can raise levels of combustion byproducts; ensure adequate fresh air, periodic CO monitoring, and adherence to occupant limits.
Fuel Supply & Runtime: Check fuel consumption rates and required cylinder sizes for planning runtime. Higher BTU units consume fuel faster; consider accessibility to propane refills or hard-piped supply.
Controls & Comfort: Look for thermostatic control, adjustable output ranges, and features like electronic ignition or remote controls for convenience. Blowers or fans improve heat distribution for radiant models.
Local Codes & Permits: Always verify local building codes and manufacturer installation instructions. Some jurisdictions restrict indoor use of vent-free heaters in primary living spaces or require specific ventilation standards.
Comparison Perspectives:
- Efficiency vs. Air Quality: Vent-free units convert more fuel into room heat but may compromise indoor air quality. Vented units are cleaner indoors but require vent installation.
- Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Use: Vent-free models often cost less to install. Vented systems may have higher installation costs but can be preferable for continuous use in occupied spaces.
- Heat Type: Choose radiant for directed, immediate warmth; choose blue-flame or convective for whole-room warmth.
- Installation Complexity: Assess whether you can provide a vent run or prefer a simple wall-mounted vent-free unit.
Use this guide to weigh safety, installation, and heating needs before selecting a propane heater for indoor use. Always follow manufacturer instructions and local regulations for safe operation.