Finding the right gas heater for an apartment requires balancing safety, size, and heat output. Below is a concise comparison and detailed reviews of five gas heater options suitable for various apartment scenarios, from small rooms to larger living areas.
| Product | Type | Max BTU | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProCom MN300HBA-B | Ventless Blue Flame | 30,000 | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. |
| ProCom MN300TPA-B | Ventless Infrared | 30,000 | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. |
| ProCom MN300TBA-B | Ventless Blue Flame | 30,000 | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. |
| Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 | Infrared Wall Heater | 30,000 | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy | Portable Propane Radiant | 4,000–9,000 | Up To 225 Sq. Ft. |
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ProCom Ventless Blue Flame Heater
This ProCom MN300HBA-B is a ventless blue flame heater rated at 30,000 BTU, designed to heat up to 1,400 sq. ft. It operates on natural gas with no electricity required and uses a push-button Piezo ignition. The unit includes three manual heat settings (Low/Medium/High) and an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) for automatic shut-off if oxygen levels drop.
As a ventless blue flame design, it distributes warm air into the room and is often used when wall- or floor-mounted heating is preferred. Key features emphasize simplicity of operation and no electrical dependency, making it suitable for installations where power outages are a concern. Installation considerations include gas line access and compliance with local codes for ventless appliances.
ProCom Infrared Space Heater With Thermostat
The ProCom MN300TPA-B is a ventless infrared natural gas heater providing up to 30,000 BTU. It uses infrared heat to warm objects and occupants directly, which can feel more immediate than warming the entire air volume. It includes thermostat control with High/Medium/Low settings and both wall mount and base feet options.
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This model highlights compact design and a modern profile for residential spaces. Infrared operation can be more efficient in rooms with high ceilings or intermittent occupancy because the heat is directional. Installation requires adherence to manufacturer clearances and natural gas supply compatibility. The thermostat control allows better temperature maintenance than manual-only units.
ProCom Ventless Blue Flame With Thermostat
The ProCom MN300TBA-B is a ventless blue flame space heater that shares the 30,000 BTU rating and up to 1,400 sq. ft. coverage. It includes thermostat control, wall-mount and base mounting hardware, and multiple heat settings. The unit is intended for residential living areas, bedrooms, and offices.
Blue flame units mix combustion air and exhaust directly into the room, so code and ventilation requirements should be confirmed. Benefits noted in the features include the thermostat for controlled heat and a slim profile for easier integration into living spaces. The manufacturer emphasizes reliability and adaptable installation options for apartments converted for natural gas heating.
Dyna-Glo Natural Gas Infrared Wall Heater
The Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 is a natural gas infrared wall heater rated at 30,000 BTU, designed to heat up to 1,000 sq. ft. Infrared technology radiates heat to warm objects and occupants first, which can produce quicker perceived warmth compared to convection-only heaters.
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This model is natural gas ready and specifically states fuel conversion is not permitted, so ensure your gas supply matches. It is a wall-mounted infrared solution appropriate for open living rooms or long narrow spaces where directed radiant heat is beneficial. Installation typically requires a secure wall structure and consideration of clearance and mounting height for optimal radiant coverage.
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Propane Heater
The Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy is a small radiant propane heater offering 4,000–9,000 BTU and designed for spaces up to 225 sq. ft. It uses infrared radiant heat to directly warm people and objects and features a Piezo igniter for match-free start-up.
Safety features include an improved tip-over switch and low oxygen sensor variations across models. Its portability and compact footprint make it suitable for temporary heating, small studios, or supplementing central heat. Note that it runs on propane, so fuel type and indoor usage policies should be verified for apartment use. Portable propane units may have different ventilation and safety requirements than natural gas hardwired units.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Apartment Gas Heater
Selecting a gas heater for an apartment involves multiple factors beyond raw BTU. Below are key considerations to compare models and ensure safe, effective heating for your living space.
Heat Output And Room Size
- BTU Rating: Higher BTUs mean more heating capacity. For typical apartments, 10,000–30,000 BTU units cover small to large rooms; portable units at 4,000–9,000 BTU serve studios or single rooms.
- Coverage: Manufacturer coverage estimates are a guideline—room insulation, ceiling height, and windows impact actual performance.
Type Of Heater: Blue Flame Vs. Infrared Vs. Portable
- Blue Flame (Ventless): Heats room air directly and provides even convection heating. Requires careful attention to ventilation and oxygen depletion sensors.
- Infrared: Radiant heat warms people and objects quickly; effective for rooms where targeted warmth is preferred and where ceilings are higher.
- Portable Propane: Good for temporary zones and supplemental heat. Check building rules and safety requirements for indoor propane use.
Fuel Type And Supply
- Natural Gas: Common in many apartment buildings. Requires hard piping and often professional installation.
- Propane: Portable and flexible but may be restricted by apartment policies and has different ventilation implications.
Safety Features
- Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS): Essential for ventless natural gas or propane appliances to shut off if oxygen falls below safe levels.
- Tip-Over Switch: Important for portable units to cut fuel if the heater is knocked over.
- Thermostat Control: Helps maintain consistent temperature and avoids excessive fuel consumption.
Installation And Venting
- Ventless Units: Easier to install but must meet local codes and room size/ventilation requirements.
- Wall/Vent Requirements: Wall-mounted infrared or vented units may need specific clearances and possible venting or piping.
- Professional Installation: Recommended for hardwired natural gas appliances to ensure safe connections and compliance with local regulations.
Energy Use And Efficiency
- On-Demand vs. Continuous: Some appliances (like tankless water heaters) use gas only when active. For space heating, efficiency is influenced by design (radiant vs. convective) and thermostat control.
- Thermostat And Zoning: Using thermostat-controlled units or zoning smaller heaters room-by-room can lower overall energy use.
Noise, Maintenance And Durability
- Noise Level: Infrared radiant heaters are typically quieter than fan-forced convectors or unit heaters that include blowers.
- Maintenance: Regular inspections, cleaning, and annual gas appliance checks improve safety and lifespan.
- Build Quality: Look for corrosion-resistant components and third-party certifications for longevity.
Regulatory And Building Policy Considerations
- Landlord Approval: Confirm landlord or building management rules about installing gas appliances, ventless units, or portable propane inside apartments.
- Local Codes: Some jurisdictions restrict ventless heaters or require specific ventilation standards; verify compliance before purchase.
Comparison Perspectives
- Small Studio Use: Portable propane radiant heaters (4,000–9,000 BTU) provide quick, targeted heat but check indoor use rules.
- Large Living Areas: 30,000 BTU ventless blue flame or infrared models offer broader coverage and are better for whole-room heating.
- Energy Efficiency: Infrared models can feel warmer faster and may reduce runtime in intermittently occupied rooms.
- Safety Priority: Units with ODS and thermostat control reduce risk and improve fuel usage control in apartments.
When selecting, match the heater type to room size, confirm fuel availability and building rules, prioritize safety features like ODS and thermostatic control, and consider professional installation for hardwired natural gas units.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.