Can You Use A Ventless Propane Heater Indoors?

Interested in finding the best indoor ventless propane heater?

Many people are concerned about the combustion products of ventless propane heaters being discharged into the heated room. On the flip side, these units are fuel-efficient and versatile in terms of installation, depending on your needs.

In this product review, I’ll go over the best ventless propane heater indoors, safety precautions to take when running them in your home, and important factors to consider before buying one for your home.

Are Ventless Propane Heaters Safe for Indoor Use?

Not all propane heaters are safe for indoor use. There are two types of propane heaters: indoor and outdoor. There are fundamental differences between the way these two types of propane heaters work.

Primarily, the difference between indoor and outdoor propane heaters arises from the way they have been made to handle the combustion process. Propane heater carbon monoxide poisoning is the greateste difference between the two.

Outdoor propane heaters do not have special features to manage the carbon monoxide produced. This is because carbon monoxide gas does not pose any danger to people when it is produced in an open space.

Indoor propane heaters have special features for the management of carbon monoxide gas. The Oxygen Deficiency Sensor helps to prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide by measuring the oxygen levels.

When the oxygen levels deplete to critical levels, the sensor switches off the propane heater. This reaction prevents the accumulation of toxic gases and the occurrence of accidents.

Also, vent free propane heaters may have a carbon monoxide detector. The detector is usually placed at strategic positions within a room. When carbon monoxide rises to certain levels, the sensor generates a signal.

Therefore, only propane heaters that have been designed for use in closed spaces can be used indoors.

Furthermore, there are certain dangers of ventless propane heaters indoors. Here are a few safety tips you should adhere to when using propane heaters indoors.

• Leave a window or the door open. When there is a small open space in your room, all the produced carbon dioxide successfully and effectively escapes outside. Moreover, leaving a window open when using a propane heater indoors helps to provide a steady supply of sufficient amounts of oxygen. Therefore, by leaving a window open, you will be able to use the heater for a long time indoors.
• Do not leave your heater unattended to. Always ensure that there is someone who is keeping a close eye on the heater. Propane heaters pose all manner of hazards when they are running. It is very easy for the heaters to cause fires if they fall when running. Besides, although very rare, leakage may occur when the propane heater is running. To prevent the occurrence of accidents in your home, always switch off the heater even when you are getting out of the room for only a few hours.
• Use the heater only when it is needed. It is always recommended to use the propane heater when it is necessary. The heaters are designed to be used as supplemental sources of heat. Therefore, avoid running your heater when it is not necessary to keep the costs down and ensure that the device lasts for a long time.
• Make sure that the room in which you use the propane heater is properly vented. If the room does not have enough aeration, then molds and mildew will grow within a short time. Your propane heater produces a lot of humidity as one of the byproducts of the combustion process. Alternatively, you can use a humidifier to reduce the amount of moisture within the room.

What to Consider When Choosing a Ventless Propane Heater Indoors

Choosing the proper ventless propane heater can be a tough task if it is your first time. It is very difficult to make the right choice with so many brands available on the market. Moreover, different brands have specific features that determine their performance.

However, it is possible to make up your mind and get the right ventless propane heater for your needs. Here are a few things that you should consider when evaluating options.

Oxygen Depletion Sensor

An ODS, as it is commonly abbreviated, is a very critical feature in a ventless propane heater. The sensor detects changes in oxygen levels in the air and automatically initiates the shutoff process if the levels are critically low.

Because propane heaters rely on oxygen for the combustion process, changes in the percentage of oxygen in the air can have devastating effects.

When oxygen is low, the heaters may end up producing the toxic carbon monoxide. Thus, the ODS prevents this by automatically shutting off the heater when oxygen levels rapidly fall. Always go for heaters that have an ODS whether you intend to use the heater indoors or outdoors.

Control Features

Different models of propane heaters have various types of control features. Some models have advanced controls including remote control and related functionalities.

Heaters that have advanced control features are better than those which only have basic controls. It is easier to customize the performance of heaters using a remote control than the conventional controls.

Therefore, if you are keen on having a heater that you can easily and conveniently personalize, then go for models that have remote controls and other advanced control capabilities.

Thermostats and Timers

Thermostats help to ensure that heaters accurately provide the required level of heating. Modern heaters have digital thermostats which are quite accurate in reading the ambient temperature.

The heating performance of your device can then be properly adjusted according to the prevailing conditions in the room.

Timers help to determine when the heater operates. By using a timer, you can program your heater to switch off or on after some time. You can program the heater to switch on and warm your house a few hours before you arrive home, thus enjoying a great level of convenience and comfort.

Always go for heaters that have inbuilt digital thermostats and timers. It is more convenient and comfortable to use heaters that have programmable timers and digital thermostats than those which lack these features.

Heating Capacity

The heating capacity of heaters is an important factor to consider when purchasing the best indoor ventless propane heater. The heating capacity of propane heaters, and many other types of heaters, can be determined by considering their BTU level.

Typically, if you divide the indicated BTU by 40, you will get the area in square feet that the heater can comfortably warm. If a propane heater has a BTU level of 40,000, then the heater can effectively heat a space that is about 1,000 square feet.

The BTU levels of indoor ventless propane heaters that are available range from 5,000 to 50,000. Choose a propane heater whose heating capacity suits your indoor space. If you choose a propane heater with low heating capacity, you may have to use it for a long time and still experience cold spots in your house.

Also, if you choose a heater that has excess capacity, you will be repeatedly forced to open the doors and windows to let in cool air currents when using it.

Efficiency

The efficiency rate for propane heaters refers to the rate at which the chemical energy is converted into heat energy. The basic principle of propane heaters is that they convert chemical energy stored in the fuel into heat energy through the combustion process. ideally, if this process is 100% efficient, then all the energy is successfully converted into heating.

In practice, however, space heaters are not 100% efficient, even the most energy-efficient propane heater. This is because some energy is lost during the combustion and heat transfer processes. Good propane heaters have efficiency rates of 99%. Always go for such brands to ensure that you get value for your money and achieve effective heating of indoor spaces.

Safety Standards

Heaters that have certification are better than those which lack any certification. Heaters that have been certified for safety and efficiency are usually taken through rigorous testing procedures. If you purchase such heaters, you will be assured of their safety and efficiency.

Ventilation of the Room

Ventless propane heaters produce a significant amount of moisture during the combustion process. For every gallon of propane that is burnt, 25 oz of water is produced.

If your indoor space is not properly vented, then the high humidity levels resulting from the activity of your propane heater will lead to the rapid growth of mildew and mold.

Ensure that the indoor spaces in which you intend to place the ventless propane heaters are properly vented. Alternatively, ensure that you always use a dehumidifier in the indoor spaces that are not properly vented to prevent the occurrence of rots when you use the heater.

Local Laws and Regulations

In some jurisdictions, using ventless propane heaters is not allowed. Canada does not permit the use of such heaters anywhere within its borders.

In the US, some state laws prohibit the use of ventless propane heaters because of environmental concerns. Therefore, always check with your local authorities even before deciding to purchase a ventless propane heater.

Accessories

Some brands of propane heaters are sold without key accessories such as hoses and mounts. Remember to check the details provided by the seller to determine whether the accessories are included or sold separately.

If the accessories are sold separately, ensure that you can easily access the recommended brands. Using incompatible accessories for your heater increases the risk of occurrence of damages and accidents. Therefore, ensure that you use the proper accessories on your heater; if you have to purchase them separately.

If you’ll be using your propane heater indoors, you want to make sure it has a battery backup so you can stay warm during a power outage. Here is a review of heaters that run on batteries.

Best Indoor Ventless Propane Heater

1. Rinnai FC824P Vent-Free Space Heater

The Rinnai FC824P can be a great choice if you are looking for an indoor heater with elegant design and standard heating capabilities. It has several features that make it quite user-friendly and effective.

With a great heating range (8,000 to 22,000 BTUs), an inbuilt thermostat, and other easy-to-use controls, this heater is ideal for warming standard-sized indoor spaces such as living rooms.

Notably, the Rinnai FC824P has advanced safety features, including the tilt switch and cool-to-touch. When it gets tilted, the heater automatically shuts off to prevent the occurrence of fire accidents.

Thanks to the cool-to-touch feature, you no longer have to worry about the kids and pets at home getting hurt when they accidentally touch the surface of the heater. Also, the Oxygen Depletion Sensor is very effective in detecting low oxygen levels and triggering the heater to go off.

However, this heater has one significant flaw, it can easily fall when accidentally knocked. Its small base surface area does not provide the required level of stability. Luckily, the tilt switch comes in handy when the heater is accidentally knocked.

Pros

• Advanced safety features, including a tilt switch and a cool-to-touch surface
• Great heating capacity with a built-in thermostat
• Elegant modern design with a white finish for enhanced aesthetic value

Cons

• The heater can easily fall when accidentally knocked

2. Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Furnace Heater

One of the notable features of the Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Furnace Heater is its design. It has a unique and sleek body with a white finish that gives it a modern look.

Moreover, it has a patented glass-ceramic window that enhances the overall aesthetic value of the heater. When mounted at any strategic location in your living room, this heater can be a great focal point for enhancing the look and feel of your indoor space.

Buying the Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Furnace Heater will be a good investment because the heater is quite durable. Its body features heavy-duty grills and parts made from cast aluminum. The use of high-quality metals for the casing of the body maximizes its durability.

Installing direct vent propane heater is a simple and straightforward process if you have basic knowledge of mounting heaters on walls. It comes with all the hardware that you need to get it up and running. However, if you are not certain about your capabilities, then it will be wise to get the services of a certified technician.

Pros

• Elegant sleek design with a unique glass-ceramic window
• Delivers value for money because of its high level of durability
• The installation process is simple and straightforward

Cons

• The heater is unsuitable for heating large spaces that exceed 500 square feet

3. Mr. Heater F274800 MH18B Portable Propane Heater

The Mr. Heater F274800 MH18B is designed for indoor and outdoor use, thanks to very high runtimes, a well-positioned handle, a small footprint, and a compact design. It is very convenient to carry the heater from one place to another where it is needed.

Moreover, when operating optimally, this propane heater can run for more than 220 hours. This enables you to achieve maximum heating when operating in remote areas where access to electricity is not guaranteed.

You can personalize the heating performance of the Mr. Heater F274800 MH18B by using the knob that is found on the surface. It is easy to change the performance of the heater according to the heating requirements of your room by toggling across the low, medium, and high modes.

However, the Mr. Heater F274800 MH18B has one major drawback: it cannot be used to heat large spaces that exceed 450 square feet. You may have to get a heater with a higher heating capacity than that of this device if you have large indoor or outdoor spaces that require heating.

Pros

• Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
• Very portable because of the compact design and a well-positioned handle
• It has a high runtime of 220 hours
• Users can control the heating across three levels: low, medium, high

Cons

• It has limited capacity suitable for spaces that do not exceed 450 square feet

4. Mr. Heater Corporation Vent-Free Radiant Propane Heater

The Mr. Heater Corporation Vent-Free Radiant Propane Heater is a small but quite effective device suitable for heating areas that do not exceed 250 square feet.

Because the heater utilizes a radiant heating method, it can quickly create and maintain a cozy environment in living rooms, bedrooms, and other indoor spaces where it is used. Besides, it has a fan for speeding up the distribution of heat.

Whether you would like to have a standalone or wall-mounted heater, this device can be the right choice for you. It comes with all the hardware that you may need to get it mounted on the wall or just keep it standing on the floor.

This heater has passed all the safety tests conducted by the CSA. Besides, it has additional safety features, including an Oxygen Depletion Sensor. The sensor helps to keep your home safe by automatically shutting down the heater when the oxygen levels in the air dip drastically.

Pros

• Quickly creates and maintains a cozy environment through radiant heating
• It has been built to be used as a standalone or wall-mounted heater
• The heater is CSA-certified for safety

Cons

• The fan of the heater is not very effective in distributing heat

5. Pro Com Dual Fuel Blue Flame Ventless Wall Heater

The Pro Com Dual Fuel Blue Flame Ventless Wall Heater can run either on propane or natural gas. The dual nature of this heater allows you to enjoy the convenience of using any of the two fuels that are easily available at any given time.

Moreover, this heater has exceptional heating capability. With a BTU level of 30,000 and a powerful inbuilt fan, it can comfortably provide warmth in large indoor spaces that measure as much as 1,000 square feet.

This high heating capacity may be a great surprise if you consider the small footprint and compact design of the heater.

You do not need to think much about this heater once you have it properly mounted on the wall. It requires very little in terms of maintenance and repair.

Thus, you will get great value for your money as well as peace of mind when you have the Pro Com Dual Fuel Blue Flame Ventless Wall Heater mounted on the wall of your living room or any other room in the house.

Pros

• Great level of convenience because of its dual-fuel system
• Effective heating capacity suitable for large spaces that measure up to 1,000 square feet
• Requires very little maintenance procedures

Cons

• The built-in fan is quite noisy

6. Avenger FDT20BFA Dual Fuel Ventless Blue Flame Gas Heater

The Avenger FDT20BFA is a small-sized but powerful and highly efficient propane heater. It has been designed to burn both liquid propane and natural gas at an efficiency rate of 99.9%. With a BTU level of 20,000, this heater can conveniently warm indoor spaces that do not exceed 250 square feet in size.

It is very convenient to use this heater to warm your room. It features an advanced battery-assisted piezo ignition system and a built-in digital thermostat. You can use the thermostat to align the heating performance of the device with the changes in your environment.

Despite its great heating performance, ease of mounting, and a great design, the Avenger FDT20BFA has several flaws. The most significant drawback of using this heater is that its surface becomes quite hot after some time.

Luckily, you do not have to worry about this so much if the heater is mounted on the wall and out of reach for children and pets.

Pros

• A high-efficiency rate of 99.9%
• It is very easy to use the heater, thanks to the presence of a battery-assisted piezo ignition system
• Small surface area for enhanced aesthetic appeal

Cons

• The surface of the heater becomes quite hot

7. Avenger FDT1IRA Dual Fuel Ventless Infrared Gas Space Heater

You do not need electricity to use the Avenger FDT1IRA, thanks to improvements in its design, heating processes, and other attributes. This new model has the most advanced aspects of vent-free infrared heating design. As a result, this heater delivers effective heating solutions suitable for small to mid-sized spaces.

This heater uses natural gas and liquid propane to produce heat. Moreover, it has an amazing extraction efficiency rate of 99.9%. Therefore, if you are concerned about the effect of using a propane-burning heater on the environment, then the Avenger FDT1IRA is the right device for use because it has been certified for efficiency and energy conservation.

The Avenger FDT1IRA has all the standard safety features that you would expect to find in a propane heater. Its ODS is effective in preventing accidents by automatically shutting down the heater if the oxygen levels dip. Additionally, you can accurately adjust its heating performance by changing the settings across five different levels.

Pros

• Advanced safety features, including an ODS
• The efficiency rate of 99.9%
• Great controls, including micro heat adjustments and an inbuilt digital thermostat

Cons

• The surface of the heater becomes hot

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Wrap Up

You don’t have to worry about carbon monoxide poisoning when using indoor ventless propane heaters anymore. Modern heaters have oxygen depletion sensors that detect the level of oxygen in your room.

You also want to make sure that your home is properly ventilated before deciding to use a vent free propane heater. If not you can use other types of space heaters are still efficient.

Of all the ventless propane heaters indoors I’ve listed in this review, Rinnai FC824P Vent-Free Space Heater comes out at the top as Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Furnace Heater follows closely.

These are all well-known brands that have managed to take propane heating to the next level. They have high BTU levels, which make them the perfect choices for large rooms.