Heating up your house, garage or office during the cold winter months is a necessity throughout the United States and Canada. Propane heaters are a popular choice because of their efficiency, energy conservation, access to fuel and overall easy maintenance.
The 10 Best Ventless Propane Heaters:
Below we have listed and reviewed the 10 best value for money ventless propane heaters currently on the market. We review and update these products on a regular basis.
1. Rinnai FC824P Ventless Propane Gas Heater
| Btu Range | 8000-22000 |
| Weight | 31.9 pounds |
| Dimensions | 3x10x20 inches |
Pros:
- Sleek elegant design
- Safe cool-touch exterior
- Easy to start the electric starter
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Some areas will require more heat
Rinnai is well known for making some of the best products on the market when it comes to heaters and the FC824P isn’t an exception. This ventless propane heater is by far the best option on the market when it comes to safety, which makes it a great option for families with children.
The surface is cool to the touch and the control panel can be locked so kids won’t be able to operate it. This heater also has a tilt switch, which will automatically turn off the unit if it tips over and will also shut down automatically if it loses power or the flames shut off.
Another key feature of this ventless propane heater is the Oxygen Depletion Sensor, which monitors the oxygen levels, and if they are too low, it will shut down the heater on its own. The BTU range of this heater is more than enough to provide heat for spaces up to 1000 square feet which makes it perfect for open spaces in need of a powerful unit.
It does need a gas line, so the best setup options would be on the ground or wall if it can securely support the almost 32-pound unit. The design is simple, but sleek, with vents at the bottom and runs quietly, so a bedroom or office space is a great space to use this ventless propane heater indoors.
With an adjustable thermostat working in 2-degree increments and two options for the vent speeds, this completes the great impression we had of the Rinnai propane heater.
2. Mr. Heater 30,000 BTU Vent Free Blue Flame Propane Heater
| Btu Range | Up to 30 000 |
| Weight | 26.8 pounds |
| Dimensions | 23.8×11.2×27 inches |
Pros:
- Trusted popular brand
- Great value for money
- Heats evenly
- Wall mount or legs for versatility
- Compact
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Not the most elegant design
- Fans not highly effective
Although it does not have the prettiest of designs, the Mr. Heater Blue Flame Heater certainly has a lot to offer and can heat up a big space. Simple, yet effective, and rocking a few proper safety features, this is a great bulky option if you are looking for a ventless propane heater with a thermostat, which can heat up well over 1000 square feet with its 30000 Btu maximum.
The unit is easy to set up just connect a gas line to it and you are good to go. There is also the option to mount it on the wall and the kit for that is also provided in the package.
The thermostat is simple with five options, with 1 being the lowest, around 60 degrees and every level after that raises the temperature a few degrees. There is an oxygen depletion sensor as well, which automatically turns off the heater if it detects the levels of oxygen in the space are too low.
Like any other propane heater, the Mr.Heater blue flame one is energy efficient and practically odorless once the manufacturing chemicals are gone. Still, just like in any other case, it is wise to put a carbon monoxide detector in the room, just in case. The more safety around a gas heater, the better.
One con to point out if you are looking into buying this type of unit is that the fans don’t work as well as others circulating the heat, so have that in mind when you are looking into the product.
All in all, this is a great heater for a great price, which will certainly be able to heat up a large space in your house or office, even though it won’t be looking as sleek while doing it.
3. Dyna-Glo BF20PMDG Ventless Liquid Propane Wall Heater
| Btu Range | Up to 20 000 |
| Weight | 24 pounds |
| Dimensions | 20.9×10.1×24 inches |
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- Reliable eclectic starter
- Easy to adjust
- Good safety features
Cons:
- Only effective for smaller spaces
- No thermostat
- Some durability concerns
One of the smaller units on the list, yet just as effective, the Dyna-Glo liquid propane blue flame wall heater, is a great option for a smaller area you might want to heat up or maintain at a cozy level.
Dyna-Glo’s blue flame technology makes sure that the heater first warms up the surrounding air before the objects and provides a wide range of circulation – first forward then upwards – so it can provide more heat using less energy and covering more space.
It comes as a wall unit but can be upgraded to a floor one with legs that can be bought separately. Another option to tweak is the Wall Heater Fan, which can also be bought separately to distribute heat better in a more powerful, yet quiet way.
This unit, even though it could be used on its own, works best as a supplemental peace for emergencies like power outages or extreme conditions where you want to cut down on the heating bill. Effortless to set up and use. One long press of the igniter and you are good to go.
An oxygen depletion sensor makes sure the heater would instantly turn off by itself in case there is not enough oxygen in the room as well as if there are carbon monoxide levels that can cause harm.
The heat adjustment is simple and effective – you can manually adjust the settings to the desired temperature. This ventless propane heater comes in a small package but has a big character, so make sure to consider it for a smaller space that might need some extra warmth.
4. Mr. Heater MH18B – Portable Ventless Propane Heater
| BTU | 4000 -18 000 |
| Dimensions | 11.9 x 19 x 17.5 inches |
| Weight | 16.15 pounds |
Pros:
- Value for money
- Compact
- 3 Heat settings
- Rugged and durable
Cons:
- Not the most attractive design
- No blower
This is in a way a double product. It’s an amazing portable heater, and an amazing indoor propane heater as well. If you’re looking for a powerful ventless propane heater, then you’ll like the Mr. Heater MH18B.
This brawny portable heater can generate anywhere between 4,000 and 18,000 allowing it to heat up spaces as large as 450 feet. It features a clean-burning system and is 99% efficient. However, the heater can’t operate at altitudes over 7000 ft, so all you mountain people can keep on looking.
It features a pilot light that automatically shuts off if there is a lack of oxygen, and will shut off automatically if it’s tipped over. The control knob offers multi-level adjustment in the form of off, low, medium and high power.
At the same time, it is a great option for an RV or just as a portable heater with its safety feature you won’t have to worry about starting a fire on the road or when you are at the cabin for a fishing trip.
You do need either batteries or an AC adapter to use the fan but this is not the minus of the unit. Once you hear the loud pitched noise the fan makes you would probably decide to not go for that option.
If this product is to your liking just be aware of the pros and cons. It is a great portable option, however, it is not intended to heat up large spaces. On the other hand, it is safe and powerful but not as energy efficient as other heaters on the list.
If you are looking to heat up the garage while working on a project or a small cabin, barn, or when you are out camping, then Big Buddy is a great option for you.
5. ProCom Liquid Propane Ventless Ice House Heater
| Btu Range | Up to 10 000 |
| Weight | 18 pounds |
| Dimensions | 23x17x8 inches |
Pros:
- Sleek modern design
- Compact
- Adjustable thermostat
- Reliable Piezo starter
Cons:
- Only suitable for small rooms or spaces
- Some concerns over build quality
The smallest guy on our list is not one to be underestimated, however. This blue flame Heater is a fantastic option for heating a small space like an office room or just as an addition to your central heating when you need that extra kick. With 10000 Btu’s it can heat up to 300 square feet, which is more than enough for garage use, small home or an RV.
Environment-friendly with 99.9% energy efficiency, you don’t need chimneys or ducts to use it. The design is sleek, almost like a speaker or a guitar amp, which can be appreciated by anyone looking for a unit, which looks good and gets the job done.
Use is easy with the piezo push-button ignition and a built-in oxygen depletion sensor, the heater will turn off as soon as it detects a lack of oxygen or signs of carbon monoxide.
Compared to bigger models costing cheaper, it is not the most budget option but certainly the best-looking one and you would be happy using it whichever space you pick to place it in.
6. Comfort Glow GCH480 Propane(LP) Cabinet Heater
| Btu Range | 6000 – 18 000 |
| Weight | 16.75 pounds |
| Dimensions | 13.25 x 13.75 x 23 inches |
Pros:
- Adjustable heat output with 3 settings
- Push-button ignition
- Fast action
- Wheels for easy movement
- Durable safety grill
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Some durability concerns
- Not effective in large spaces
This is a popular product that is highly rated by most people that have bought it. It is affordable and effective in small to medium rooms. With three heat options, ranging from 6 000 to 18 000 Btu, you can achieve the perfect warmth for comfort.
It is tough, durable, and portable. The GCH480 has sturdy wheels making it easy to move from room to room when necessary. The push-button ignition makes it easy to start and the Comfort Glow GCH480 is user-friendly. Safety features have not been ignored and it has all the necessary measures in place.
This is a practical and effective ventless propane heater that is easy to use and gets the job done.
7. Rinnai FC510 Vent-Free Space Heater
| Btu Range | 5 600 – 10 000 |
| Weight | 28.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 3 x 23 x 20 inches |
Pros:
- Modern elegant design
- Sleek and compact
- Durable
- Variable heat control
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Comparatively expensive
- Not ideal for larger rooms
The most outstanding feature of the Rinnai range is that they look amazing. This model, like the one we featured above, has a sleek modern design that is attractive. It will not look out of place in any part of the home. It is also compact and will not take up much space.
While they are more expensive than the average ventless propane heaters they are top-quality. They not only look good but perform exceptionally well. It has a decent heat range of 5 600 to 10 000 Btu and is ideal for smaller areas in the house.
This heater is well-made from quality materials and is designed to last. You can expect many years of warmth and comfort from your investment. It operates with minimal noise so will not be a disturbance.
8. Mr. Heater F274830 MH18BRV Big Buddy Indoor-Safe Propane Heater
| Btu Range | 4 000 to 18 000 |
| Weight | 16.66 pounds |
| Dimensions | 19 x 12 x 17.75 inches |
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable
- Compact and portable
- Dependable brand
- Good safety features
Cons:
- Somewhat industrial in appearance
- Only effective in rooms up to 450 square feet
We often feature Mr. Heater products in our heater reviews. They are popular, affordable, and reliable. If you do not need one as powerful as the 30 000 Btu model we reviewed above, this is a great option.
With a heat range of 4 000 to 18 000 Btu it is ideal for smaller areas. It is easy to adjust to the perfect temperature for your room or space. It will comfortably warm a room up to 450 square feet.
This is a compact portable ventless propane heater that will keep you warm and comfortable for many years. The safety features are exactly what you need.
9. Bluegrass Living B30TPB-BB Vent Free Blue Flame Gas Space Heater
| Btu Range | Up to 30 000 Btu |
| Weight | 24.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 28 x 26 x 10 inches |
Pros:
- Great heating power for larger areas
- Efficient Piezo ignition for easy start
- Thermostat control
- Energy efficient
- Blower helps to spread heat evenly
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
- A few users found the inlet design to be misplaced for their environment
If you are after a powerful ventless propane heater that can handle larger areas this is a good one to consider. Given the impressive maximum output of 30 000 Btu it is capable of heating an area up to 1,400 square feet.
The thermostat will allow you to create the perfect warmth for the environment you are using it in. It is also extremely efficient so will not cost a fortune to run. This will save you over time. The heater is safe and comes with brackets for wall mounting if required.
Another benefit of this model is the built-in blower. This ensures that heat is spread evenly throughout the area.
10. Dyna-Glo IR18PMDG-1 Liquid Propane Vent Free Wall Heater
| Btu Range | Up to 18 000 Btu |
| Weight | 20 pounds |
| Dimensions | 20.94 x 10.08 x 24.02 inches |
Pros:
- Value for money
- Decent coverage for the size
- Effective infrared design
- User-friendly
Cons:
- Can be noisy at times
- Some questions on control mechanism durability
Dyna-Glo is another brand we are fond of as they are quality products that are well-priced and reliable. This model can deliver heat up to 18 000 Btu making it suitable for rooms up to 700 square feet.
It has an adjustable heat control for options of low, medium, and high. This will allow you to make the ideal temperature according to your needs. The controls are user-friendly and easy to operate.
As it delivers infrared heat, it spreads the heat evenly and effectively over the area. It also makes it efficient to operate.
What to look for when buying a ventless propane heater
Ignition
The last thing that you want is a heater that is tricky to start. The good ones come with a push-button electric starter which makes it quick and easy. A Piezo ignition is great but there are other reliable options.
Unless you are patient do not go for a manual ignition. A decent automatic starter is what you want. Most modern models have this feature but some are easier to operate and last longer.
Heating Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider, when investing in a heater, is the heating capacity. Simply stated, a small area will require less heat output than a large room or area. The heating capacity is measured mainly by Btu output although the design is also a factor. Consider both when selecting the ideal solution for your environment.
Design
The design and look of the heater are important. Firstly, you do not want it to look unpleasant. If it is in a garage, this is not a major issue but if used in your home or office you want one that is stylish and does not detract from the look of the room.
Size, design, and color are all important.
Thermostat
A reliable thermostat will help you to control the temperature. This allows you to create a comfortable warmth that is ideal for the environment. It also helps to save costs as you will have minimal wastage.
Popular Ventless Propane Heater FAQs
Are Ventless Heaters Safe?
Most ventless propane heaters on the market have a number of safety mechanisms installed and implemented so you do not have to worry about incidents.
That being said, however, you always have to keep in mind you are working with propane and there is always the risk of malfunction in the gas line or the chance of carbon monoxide release as well as oxygen depletion if the sensor of the heater doesn’t automatically shut off at one point.
These heaters also make a lot of humidity around the space they heat up so there is also the risk of mold and the purchase of a dehumidifier is suggested almost always when opting for a propane heater, so you don’t suffer from the possible consequences in the future.
Other than that, a cover or a wire cage is also a great addition to the safety basket of the propane heaters. A ventless propane heater is never recommended as a primary source of heat in the house but more as a supportive unit, unless you are looking to heat up an RV, a small cabin, or an office.
On any occasion make sure space is properly vented, otherwise, you might find yourself in needless trouble.
Why Does My Ventless Propane Heater Stink?
The simplest answer to this question is that, like with any other appliance, if it is brand new, there are chemicals applied to it that need to burn off and give out a smell just like a brand new oven before you use it a number of times.
Now that we covered the basics, let us delve into scenarios where the smell is still there after a certain time of use.
The first thing, which should come to your mind, is that there might be a gas leak somewhere between the heater and the gas line providing the propane. In that case, make sure the gas tank is not empty and be very careful because and empty tank can cause a big explosion.
The safest way to approach this is to turn off any valves from the gas supply as well as the heater in order to prevent any more escalation. That being said, the pilot lights can also give off a gassy smell.
Usually, when the flame is out, gas keeps coming out and into the air and it can cause a pretty bad accident if too much gas escapes and a spark comes out at one point. Make sure to have an extended warranty on your heater and always call a qualified technician when it comes to potential gas leaks or smells as these might lead to bigger problems.
How To Clean a Ventless Propane Heater
An essential part of maintaining your propane heater working properly is cleaning it. In general, you shouldn’t go a full year without cleaning your ventless propane heater.
Remove the panels of the heater
Consult the manual of your ventless heater unit to make sure you know how to remove the panels of the heater.
Vacuum
After that, make sure to vacuum the dust from all surfaces you can reach on the heater’s body. The best way to clean the other parts would be to use a can of compressed air, cleaning the oxygen depletion sensor and air intake.
Wipe
Once done with that, use a wet cloth to wipe the exterior and make sure all hoses are plugged just the way they were and follow the manual when reassembling your unit.
There are plenty of services that provide this service out there, but if you do not want to pay extra and want to do it yourself, just grab an online tutorial as the internet’s got plenty.
Conclusion
There are more than enough options for ventless propane heaters on the market and the one which is best for you is certainly out there.
Just like any other best product list we do, this is just a summary of the best available products for any purpose. We hope you will find it useful as the guide is made to answer any additional questions you might have, so the next time you enter the store, you know exactly what to look for.
What Is The Best Ventless Propane Heater?
As we covered many topics in this guide and went through a few of the best options on the market, there is still plenty to be said about which one is the best.
It is not just about the brand, it is not just about the efficiency, in the end, it is all about which is also the safest and suits your needs the best. If you want a heater to keep your cabin or garage warm, while working on a project, go for a smaller one, like the Mr. Heater MH18B – Portable Ventless Propane Heater.
If you need to heat up a bigger space, with a heater you can move around and want something, which looks sleek, yet gets the job done just as well, opt for something like the Mr. Heater 30,000 BTU Vent Free Blue Flame Propane Heater.
One thing is certain, never compromise on safety features – the more, the merrier. Get an additional warranty, choose a heater with as many safety features as you can afford because at the end of the day you want to be warm and safe.
And on that note, if you will be using it to warm a larger area and you’re willing to mount the heater to the wall, you can go for the Rinnai FC824P Ventless Propane Gas Heater or Dyna-Glo BF20PMDG Ventless Liquid Propane Wall Heater depending on how large the area is you want to heat.