Direct vent LP (liquid propane) heaters deliver safe, efficient warmth by venting combustion gases outdoors while supplying combustion air from the outside. Below is a quick summary of five selected direct vent heaters that fit common needs like wall mounting, fireplaces, and higher-capacity room heating. Read the product sections for features, performance notes, and ideal use cases to help you compare models side-by-side.
| Product | Brand | BTU | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tahoe Clean Face Direct Vent IPC Deluxe 42″ LP Fireplace | Empire Comfort Systems | 25,000 | Propane (LP) |
| Rinnai EX22DTWN Direct Vent Wall Furnace | Rinnai | 21,500 | Natural Gas (note: comparable LP models exist) |
| Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Direct Vent LP Wall Heater | Comfort Glow | 11,000 | Liquid Propane |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent LP Wall Heater | Comfort Glow | 17,000 | Liquid Propane |
| Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas Wall Heater | Comfort Glow | 25,000 | Natural Gas |
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Empire Tahoe Clean Face 42″ LP Fireplace
Key Features: 25,000 BTU heat output, durable metal construction, vented direct vent system, cordless operation, customizable liners and finishes. Dimensions listed as 17.75″D x 43.5″W x 37.62″H.
This model is a decorative direct vent propane fireplace intended for living spaces where a centerpiece appearance is desired along with room heating. The vented system directs exhaust outdoors, supporting indoor air quality. The higher 25,000 BTU output suits medium-to-large rooms when combined with proper venting and installation.
Customization options for liners and trim allow integration with decor while the metal construction supports durability. Because this is a vented fireplace, a qualified installer should handle vent routing and compliance with local codes to ensure safe operation and optimum performance.
Rinnai EX22DTWN Direct Vent Wall Furnace
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Key Features: 21,500 BTU, modulating technology for consistent temperature, cool-to-the-touch cabinet, self-diagnostic electronics, energy-efficient operation.
The Rinnai wall furnace emphasizes consistent, efficient heating with modulating burners that adjust heat output to match demand and minimize short cycling. The cool cabinet and self-diagnostics add operational safety and troubleshooting convenience.
While this specific Amazon listing references natural gas, Rinnai offers model variants and conversion options; confirm fuel compatibility and installation requirements with the seller or a licensed technician. Ideal applications include hallways, apartments, or rooms where wall-mounted direct vent heat is preferred and precise temperature control is valuable.
Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU LP Direct Vent Wall Heater
Key Features: 11,000 BTU vented propane heater, heats up to ~375 sq. ft., sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo ignition, safety pilot with built-in pressure regulator, compact wall-mount design (20″H x 17″W x 7″D).
This compact direct vent LP wall heater is suitable for small rooms, workshops, or supplemental heating. The sealed burn system isolates combustion from indoor air, improving safety and limiting heat loss through infiltration.
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Safety features like the pressure-regulated pilot and matchless ignition simplify use and reduce risk of gas flow issues. The smaller BTU output means lower fuel use but more limited coverage—verify room size and heat loss before selection.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU LP Direct Vent Wall Heater
Key Features: 17,000 BTU vented propane heater, heats up to ~570 sq. ft., sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo ignition, safety pilot with pressure regulator, wall-mount dimensions 20″H x 27.3″W x 6.5″D.
The 17,000 BTU LP model offers a mid-range option for rooms that exceed small bedroom size but do not require the highest capacity. The sealed combustion helps maintain indoor air quality while providing steady heat output.
This unit is a space-saving wall mount option with a balance of output and efficiency. Consider room layout and vent placement so the heater can distribute heat effectively; professional installation ensures vent routing and clearances meet safety standards.
Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas Wall Heater
Key Features: 25,000 BTU vented natural gas heater, heats up to ~825 sq. ft., sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo ignition, safety pilot with built-in pressure regulator, dimensions 26.5″H x 32.25″W x 8.75″D.
As a higher-capacity wall heater, this Comfort Glow model is suited for large rooms, open-plan spaces, or basements where direct venting can be routed to the exterior. The sealed combustion chamber and safety pilot are standard features supporting secure operation.
Although this listing specifies natural gas, similar constructions and safety considerations apply to LP variants. Size up the room and account for insulation levels to determine if the 25,000 BTU output aligns with heating requirements.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right LP Direct Vent Heater
When selecting a direct vent LP heater, consider the following key factors to choose a model that meets safety, efficiency, and comfort expectations.
Fuel Compatibility And Venting
Fuel Type: Confirm the heater is designed for liquid propane (LP). Some models or listings reference natural gas; ensure the specific SKU or conversion kits are LP-compatible.
Direct Venting: Direct vent units draw combustion air from outside and exhaust directly outdoors. Proper vent routing, termination location, and compliance with local codes are mandatory for safe operation.
Heating Capacity And Room Size
- BTU Rating: Match BTU output to room square footage and heat loss characteristics. Lower-BTU units (10k–11k) fit small rooms; mid-range (17k) suits medium rooms; high-output units (25k+) serve large spaces.
- Insulation And Layout: Consider ceiling height, insulation, exterior walls, and open floor plans—all affect effective heating area.
Installation And Clearance Requirements
Professional Installation: Direct vent systems require accurate vent placement, clearances, and sometimes structural modifications. Use a licensed installer to confirm clearances and local code compliance.
Mounting Options: Decide between wall-mounted units and fireplace-style installations. Wall heaters save floor space; fireplaces provide aesthetic value and focal heating.
Safety Features
- Sealed Combustion: Keeps combustion gases out of living spaces—essential for indoor air quality.
- Safety Pilot/Pressure Regulator: Stops gas flow if pilot extinguishes or pressure is out of range.
- Cool-To-Touch Cabinets: Beneficial in homes with children or pets.
Efficiency And Controls
Modulating Burners: Models with modulation (like some Rinnai units) adjust output to demand, improving comfort and reducing fuel use.
Thermostatic Control: Built-in thermostat or compatibility with digital controls improves temperature stability and energy savings.
Durability, Maintenance, And Warranties
Construction: Metal cabinets and sealed combustion chambers generally last longer with regular maintenance.
Service Access: Verify easy access for pilot, ignition, and periodic inspection. Check manufacturer warranty and support options.
Aesthetic And Placement Considerations
Appearance: Fireplace models offer design customization like liners and trims; wall heaters prioritize compactness and unobtrusiveness.
Vent Termination Visibility: Plan vent terminations to avoid obstructing sightlines or creating exterior aesthetic issues.
Comparison Perspectives
- Small Room, Low Fuel Use: Choose a compact 11,000 BTU sealed LP wall heater for efficient localized heat.
- Medium Room, Balanced Output: A 17,000 BTU LP wall heater strikes a balance between coverage and fuel consumption.
- Large Space Or Aesthetic Feature: Fireplace models or 25,000 BTU units deliver higher heat and focal design but require more complex venting.
- Precise Temperature Control: Look for modulating units and self-diagnostics if eliminating temperature swings is a priority.
Before purchase, verify model compatibility with local codes, confirm LP supply and pressure requirements, and consult a licensed technician for sizing and installation planning.
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
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