Quick Overview: This guide compares direct vent and vented wall heaters suitable for propane use or available as direct-vent natural gas models commonly used as propane alternatives with professional conversion. Below is a summary of the five selected models to help you compare heating capacity, safety features, and coverage at a glance.
| Product | Brand | BTU | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Direct Vent Liquid Propane | Comfort Glow | 11,000 BTU | Up To 375 sq. ft. |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Liquid Propane | Comfort Glow | 17,000 BTU | Up To 570 sq. ft. |
| Rinnai EX38DTP Direct Vent Wall Furnace | Rinnai | 36,500 BTU | Whole-Room Modulating Heat |
| Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas | Comfort Glow | 25,000 BTU | Up To 825 sq. ft. |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas | Comfort Glow | 17,000 BTU | Up To 570 sq. ft. |
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Comfort Glow 11,000 BTU Liquid Propane
Overview: This compact direct vent propane wall heater delivers 11,000 BTU and is rated to heat up to 375 sq. ft. The sealed combustion chamber and direct venting move combustion air from outside, reducing indoor air contaminants.
Key Features: The unit includes a sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo Ignition, and a safety pilot with pressure regulator that stops gas flow if the pilot goes out. The space-saving design mounts on walls with dimensions 20 H × 17 W × 7 D inches.
Use Case: Appropriate for small rooms, dens, or bedrooms where a direct vent installation is feasible and where sealed combustion is preferred for indoor air quality and safety.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Liquid Propane
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Overview: The larger Comfort Glow propane direct vent model provides 17,000 BTU of heating capacity, suitable for spaces up to 570 sq. ft. It shares many safety and ignition features with the smaller model while offering more output.
Key Features: Sealed burn system, Matchless Piezo Ignition, and built-in pressure regulator safety pilot. Dimensions are 20 H × 27.3 W × 6.5 D inches, allowing wider frontal heat distribution.
Use Case: Recommended for medium-sized living rooms, large bedrooms, or small open-plan areas where a direct vent setup will maintain indoor air quality and provide efficient heat coverage.
Rinnai EX38DTP Direct Vent Wall Furnace
Overview: The Rinnai EX38DTP is a high-capacity direct vent wall furnace offering 36,500 BTU with advanced modulating controls to match heat output to demand. It is listed as an indoor propane-capable model suitable for whole-room applications.
Key Features: Modulating technology for even temperature control, cool-to-the-touch cabinet, and self-diagnostic electronics for safety. The design emphasizes energy efficiency by precisely matching fuel use to heat needs.
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Use Case: Best for larger rooms or zones where steady, block heating is required and where homeowners want a direct vent solution with advanced control logic to limit fuel consumption while maintaining comfort.
Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas
Overview: While this Comfort Glow model is specified as natural gas, its direct vent design and higher 25,000 BTU output make it relevant when evaluating vented wall furnace sizes and installation types. Conversion to propane requires professional assessment and is subject to manufacturer guidance.
Key Features: Sealed burn system, safety pilot with pressure regulator, and a space-saving wall mount. Heater dimensions are 26.5 H × 32.25 W × 8.75 D inches and it is rated to heat up to 825 sq. ft.
Use Case: Suitable for larger living areas, basements, or open-plan rooms where a higher-output direct vent heater is needed. Consider professional fuel conversion options if propane is required.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas
Overview: This Comfort Glow direct vent natural gas heater provides the same physical footprint and many safety features as the propane 17,000 BTU model, rated for 570 sq. ft. It demonstrates how direct vent technology is applied across fuels.
Key Features: Sealed combustion, Matchless Piezo Ignition, and pressure-regulated safety pilot. Dimensions 20 H × 27.3 W × 6.5 D inches provide a similar installation footprint to the propane variant.
Use Case: Practical for medium rooms where direct venting is prioritized. If a propane setup is required, consult a licensed technician to verify compatibility and conversion requirements.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Propane Vented Wall Heater
Vented Type And Combustion Safety: Prefer direct vent (sealed combustion) systems for indoor air quality. Direct vent units draw combustion air from outside and exhaust outdoors, minimizing indoor nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide exposure. Avoid vent-free units if you need a vented system.
Fuel Compatibility And Conversion: Confirm whether the model is factory-configured for propane (LP) or natural gas. Some direct vent models are dedicated to one fuel; others may allow conversion with a kit. Always use a licensed professional for fuel conversions and local code compliance.
BTU Output And Room Coverage: Match BTU capacity to room size. As a rule of thumb, 11,000–17,000 BTU suits small to mid rooms (300–600 sq. ft.), while 25,000–36,500 BTU is better for larger open areas. Consider insulation, ceiling height, and climate when estimating needs.
Energy Efficiency And Controls: Look for modulating or variable output
Safety Features: Essential safety components include sealed burn systems, pilot safety with pressure regulators, and self-diagnostics
Installation Requirements: Direct vent systems need careful placement and a clear path for the intake and exhaust venting. Wall thickness, exterior access, and distance to combustibles will affect placement. Factor in the cost and logistics of professional installation and vent routing.
Noise, Aesthetics, And Space: Wall furnaces vary in faceplate size and noise level. Higher output models may be larger and could affect room layout. Check cabinet finish and dimensions to ensure a visually and physically compatible install.
Maintenance And Warranty: Choose models with clear maintenance guidelines and accessible parts. Regular inspection of the vent, burners, and pilot system is recommended. Verify warranty coverage for components and labor where possible.
Comparison Perspectives:
- Small Room vs Large Room: Smaller units (11k–17k BTU) are ideal for single-room heating; higher-output Rinnai-style units better suit whole-room or large area heating.
- Propane-Ready vs Natural Gas: Propane-ready models are plug-and-play for LP. Natural gas units may require kits and professional conversion — consider local availability of fuel and codes.
- Direct Vent vs Vent-Free: For households with ventilation concerns, allergies, or tight building envelopes, prefer direct vent systems. Vent-free models can be efficient but may affect indoor air composition.
- Control And Efficiency: Models with modulating output and electronic controls provide finer temperature management and lower fuel use compared with single-stage units and manual pilot systems.
Final Purchase Checklist:
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
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- Confirm the fuel type and whether propane is factory-configured or allowed via conversion.
- Match BTU output to room size, insulation, and climate.
- Verify venting path, wall thickness, and installation access before purchase.
- Ensure required safety features are present (sealed combustion, pressure regulator pilot, diagnostics).
- Plan for professional installation and local code compliance.