Best Direct Vent Propane Heater for Home and Garage

Direct vent propane heaters provide efficient, sealed combustion and safe indoor heating for rooms and garages. This guide reviews five well-rated direct vent propane units that suit small rooms to large spaces, summarizing key specs to help you compare features, capacity, and installation considerations.

Product	Brand	BTU	Coverage
Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Direct Vent Liquid Propane Wall Heater	Comfort Glow	11,000	Up To 375 Sq. Ft.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Liquid Propane Wall Heater	Comfort Glow	17,000	Up To 570 Sq. Ft.
Rinnai EX38DTP Direct Vent Wall Furnace	Rinnai	36,500	Large Rooms / Zoned Areas
Empire DV210 Direct Vent Propane Space Heater	FATBOY / Empire	10,000	Small Rooms
Modine Hot Dawg HD45AS01-21 Direct Vent Garage Heater	Modine	45,000	Garages / Workshops

Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Propane Wall Heater

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This direct vent propane wall heater delivers 11,000 BTU, designed to heat up to 375 sq. ft.. It uses a sealed burn system to draw combustion air from outside and vent exhaust outdoors, maintaining indoor air quality.

• Safety Features: Matchless Piezo ignition and a safety pilot with a built-in pressure regulator to stop gas flow if the pilot is extinguished.
• Space-Saving Design: Wall-mountable dimensions (20 H x 17 W x 7 D) suitable for tight spaces or rooms where floor space is limited.
• Application: Best for small rooms, bedrooms, or supplemental heating where sealed combustion and venting are required.

Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Propane Wall Heater

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The 17,000 BTU Comfort Glow model increases heating capacity to cover approximately 570 sq. ft. while retaining the sealed combustion advantages of direct venting.

• Sealed Burn System: Matches the 11k model with Piezo ignition and a safety pilot plus a built-in pressure regulator to reduce risk from pilot loss.
• Mounting Footprint: Larger wall footprint (20 H x 27.3 W x 6.5 D) for living rooms, larger bedrooms, or open plan areas needing more heat output.
• Use Case: Suitable where higher output is needed but sealed combustion and a wall-mounted form factor are required.

Rinnai EX38DTP Direct Vent Wall Furnace

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The Rinnai EX38DTP is a high-capacity direct vent wall furnace providing up to 36,500 BTU. It features modulating technology for targeted temperature control and improved efficiency in larger zones.

• Modulating Heat Control: Adjusts output to meet demand, reducing cycling and minimizing fuel use while improving comfort consistency.
• Safety And Usability: Cool-to-touch cabinet and self-diagnostic electronics simplify maintenance and enhance safe operation in occupied spaces.
• Energy Efficiency: Designed to match heat level to load, which can reduce propane consumption versus fixed-output units.
• Application: Well-suited for larger rooms, zoned heating, or when consistent temperature control is a priority.

Empire DV210 Direct Vent Propane Space Heater

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The Empire DV210 is a compact 10,000 BTU direct vent propane heater designed for smaller rooms. It includes the vent pipe and cap, simplifying installation for sealed combustion setups.

• Included Venting: Vent pipe and cap packaged with the heater support direct vent installation where through-wall termination is required.
• Dimensions & Weight: 16 1/4″ W x 9 3/8″ D x 21 3/8″ H and approximately 42 pounds for a manageable wall-mounted or recessed installation.
• Application: Ideal for small bedrooms, offices, or where a low-profile, sealed heater is preferred.

Modine Hot Dawg HD45AS01-21 Garage Heater

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The Modine Hot Dawg HD45AS01-21 is a high-output LP-fired direct vent option delivering approximately 45,000 BTU. It is intended for garages, workshops, and commercial bays where robust, forced-air heat is needed.

• High Output: Larger BTU rating suitable for open or poorly insulated spaces like garages and workshops.
• Durability: Industrial design focused on continuous operation in utility environments rather than living spaces.
• Application: Use where powerful, reliable heating and direct vent capabilities are required for detached or semi-conditioned spaces.

Buying Guide: How To Choose A Direct Vent Propane Heater

Choosing the right direct vent propane heater requires matching capacity, installation needs, and safety features to your space and local codes. The following considerations help you compare models and determine suitability.

Heat Output And Room Size

Estimate required BTUs by square footage and insulation quality. As a general rule, smaller rooms need 5,000–15,000 BTU; medium rooms 15,000–30,000 BTU; garages and large open areas 30,000 BTU and up. Manufacturer coverage estimates (sq. ft.) provide a baseline, but adjust for high ceilings or poor insulation.

Direct Vent Mechanism And Installation

Direct vent heaters use sealed combustion: they bring outdoor air in and vent exhaust outdoors. Confirm whether the unit’s venting kit is included and whether through-wall or vertical termination is needed. Some units include vent pipe and cap; others require separate vent kits and professional installation.

Safety Features

Look for a sealed combustion chamber, pressure regulators, safety pilots, flame failure devices, oxygen depletion sensors (ODS), overheat protection, and cool-to-touch cabinets where children or pets may be present. Models with self-diagnostics ease troubleshooting.

Fuel Type And Conversion

Ensure the model is specifically configured for propane (LP) or can be converted per manufacturer instructions. Conversion kits must be sourced and installed by qualified technicians to ensure safe operation and compliance with codes.

Efficiency And Control

Modulating burners and thermostatic controls improve efficiency by matching output to demand. Consider programmable thermostats or units compatible with remote thermostats for precise temperature control and reduced fuel use.

Noise And Air Movement

Some direct vent units use fans to distribute heat, which increases airflow and noise. Verify if the model lists fan-assisted circulation, and assess whether fan noise is acceptable for the installation location.

Placement And Space Constraints

Wall-mounted units save floor space but need adequate clearances around the unit for safety and service access. Measure mounting locations and review manufacturer clearance requirements before purchase.

Durability And Intended Use

Select residential-rated units for living spaces and industrial or garage-rated heaters for workshops or unconditioned spaces. Garage units often prioritize robustness and higher output rather than living-space aesthetics.

Local Codes And Professional Installation

Confirm local building codes and fuel gas regulations. Direct vent installation often requires sealed wall penetrations, correct vent termination, and sometimes permits. Professional installation ensures safe fuel connections and combustion air management.

Maintenance And Serviceability

Choose models with accessible service panels and common replacement parts. Scheduled maintenance includes combustion chamber inspection, venting inspection, and pilot or ignition checks to maintain safe and efficient operation.

Comparison Perspectives

• Small Room Focus: Choose compact 10,000–12,000 BTU direct vent models with included venting for minimal installation complexity.
• Family Living Spaces: Favor units with sealed burn systems, cool-to-touch cabinets, and self-diagnostics for safety and convenience.
• Large Or Zonal Heating: Consider modulating high-BTU units to reduce fuel cycling and maintain consistent temperatures.
• Garage/Workshop: Prioritize higher-output, rugged units rated for continuous operation and larger ventilation allowances.