Choosing the right gas wall heater depends on room size, venting options, and fuel type. This guide reviews five relevant gas wall units sold on Amazon, comparing BTU output, mounting, and key features to help you match a heater to your space.
| Product | Fuel Type | BTU | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU50NG | Natural Gas | 50,000 | Up To 1,250 Sq. Ft. |
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG | Natural Gas | 80,000 | Up To 2,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 Infrared Wall Heater | Natural Gas | 30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Dyna-Glo 30,000 BTU Blue Flame Vent Free | Liquid Propane | 24,000–30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT Vent Free Blue Flame | Natural Gas | 30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
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Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU50NG 50,000 BTU
The Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU50NG is a natural gas unit heater designed for larger spaces. It delivers 50,000 BTU per hour and is rated to heat up to 1,250 square feet, making it suitable for medium garages, workshops, and utility spaces. The unit features a powered exhaust that supports both vertical and horizontal venting, increasing installation flexibility in different building configurations.
Installation and serviceable points are designed for convenience: the thermostat, A/C terminals, and gas connection are accessible from the outside of the enclosure. The heater’s mounting allows overhead placement to maximize floor space. As a category 1/3 venting-capable unit, it is intended for use with a direct vent or common venting depending on local code and the selected vent configuration.
Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG 80,000 BTU
The MHU80NG increases output with 80,000 BTU capacity, suitable for larger workshops, warehouses, and open bay garages. Manufacturer specs list coverage around 2,000 square feet, subject to building insulation and ceiling height. The heater ships with mounting brackets and includes a liquid propane conversion kit, though the unit is configured for natural gas by default.
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Key technical specs include 120 V power for controls, a low amp draw, and recommended clearances such as a minimum 8-foot clearance from the floor to the base of the unit. Venting is specified as category 1 vertical or category 3 horizontal, so plan vent runs according to local code. Thermostat, hose, and regulator are not included, so a separate wall thermostat is typically required for temperature control.
Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 Natural Gas Infrared Wall Heater
The Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 is a natural gas infrared wall heater that uses radiant heat to warm objects and occupants rather than just convecting air. Its rated output is up to 30,000 BTU and it’s intended for spaces up to 1,000 square feet. Infrared technology produces targeted warmth and can be effective in high-ceiling or drafty spaces.
This model is factory set for natural gas (fuel conversion is not permitted). Infrared units generally provide quick, comfortable heat to people and objects in the line of sight and can complement central heating or other gas heaters. Installation requires a proper gas connection and adherence to venting and clearance guidelines outlined in the manufacturer instructions and local codes.
Dyna-Glo 30,000 BTU Blue Flame Vent Free Wall Heater
The Dyna-Glo Blue Flame vent-free wall heater uses blue flame technology to heat air by convection, producing even room air temperature similar to central heating. It offers variable output from 24,000 to 30,000 BTU and is rated for spaces up to 1,000 square feet. This particular model is listed as liquid propane ready and does not permit fuel conversion.
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Vent-free heaters provide efficiency by delivering combustion heat directly into the room, but they rely on adequate ventilation and adherence to safety clearances. Blue flame units typically include safety features such as oxygen depletion sensors on some models—verify the specific safety listings and local regulations before installation, as vent-free appliances are regulated differently across jurisdictions.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT 30,000 BTU Vent Free Blue Flame
The MHVFBF30NGT is a vent-free blue flame wall heater designed for natural gas use. It delivers up to 30,000 BTU and is recommended for areas up to 1,000 square feet. Features include a built-in thermostat for precise temperature control and an electric ignition powered by a battery, simplifying startup in locations without 120 V power to the unit.
Blue flame convection heaters distribute heat through natural air movement and are often used in additions, sunrooms, and supplementary living spaces. The unit’s fuel efficiency and included thermostat make it suitable for consistent temperature control, but users must follow local codes regarding vent-free appliance installation and verify altitude ratings for performance at higher elevations.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Gas Wall Heater
When comparing gas wall units, focus on BTU output, fuel type, venting requirements, and room characteristics. Below are practical considerations to evaluate before purchase and installation.
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Room Size And BTU Requirements
- Calculate Heat Load: Estimate square footage and ceiling height. Larger, taller, or poorly insulated spaces need higher BTU outputs.
- Match BTU To Space: Small rooms (up to ~500 sq. ft.) may need 10k–20k BTU; mid-size rooms ~1,000 sq. ft. often need 24k–30k BTU; large garages or shops require 50k–80k BTU units.
Fuel Type: Natural Gas Vs. Propane
- Natural Gas: Common for permanent installations with utility connections; usually lower fuel cost where available.
- Liquid Propane (LP): Used where natural gas is unavailable; conversion kits exist for some models but many are fuel-specific and conversion may be prohibited.
- Check Fuel Compatibility: Verify manufacturer specifications—some heaters are factory set for one fuel and conversion is not permitted.
Venting Options And Indoor Air Quality
- Vent-Free Heaters: Offer high efficiency by releasing combustion products and heat into the room. They require proper ventilation and may be restricted in some areas. Check for oxygen depletion sensors (ODS) and local codes.
- Direct-Vent/Power-Vent Units: Use sealed combustion with dedicated venting (horizontal or vertical). Better for indoor air quality and recommended for tighter homes or basements.
- Exhaust Requirements: For power-exhaust units, verify allowed venting orientations and clearances to prevent improper drafting.
Installation & Mounting
- Mounting Height: Wall or ceiling-mounted unit heaters have specific minimum clearances from floors, ceilings, and combustible materials—follow instructions.
- Professional Installation: Gas connections, venting, and combustion safety are governed by codes; hire a licensed installer when required.
- Thermostat And Controls: Some units include built-in thermostats or electric ignition; others require separate thermostats or controls purchased and wired separately.
Safety Features And Regulations
- ODS And Safety Shutoff: Oxygen depletion sensors and automatic shutoffs are important for vent-free models.
- Local Codes: Confirm local restrictions on vent-free units, permitted BTU limits, and installation requirements.
- Altitude Ratings: High-elevation operation can reduce output; check manufacturer altitude limits and adjustments.
Performance Comparisons
- Infrared Vs. Blue Flame: Infrared heaters radiate to objects and occupants and can feel warmer quickly; blue flame convective heaters heat room air for even distribution.
- Unit Heater (Overhead) Vs. Wall-Mounted: Overhead unit heaters (like Big Maxx models) are suited to large, open spaces and can preserve floor space; wall-mounted convection or infrared units are better for living areas, additions, and targeted heating.
- Energy Efficiency: Vent-free units deliver nearly all combustion heat to the room but may affect indoor air quality; direct-vent units lose some exhaust heat but isolate combustion products from indoor air.
Maintenance And Longevity
- Regular Inspection: Check burners, pilot/ignition systems, and venting annually. Clean surfaces to prevent dust buildup affecting combustion.
- Service Access: Consider units with external access to thermostat and gas connections to simplify service.
- Spare Parts And Support: Verify availability of replacement parts such as thermocouples, ignition batteries, or conversion kits where allowed.
Other Practical Considerations
- Noise Level: Some units with fans or power exhaust generate noise; purely convective or infrared units are generally quieter.
- Placement: Avoid placing near curtains, storage, or high-traffic areas. Maintain manufacturer-specified clearances for safety and airflow.
- Multiple Units: For unevenly heated spaces, using multiple smaller units may provide more even comfort than a single large heater.