Gas heating employed by gas heaters has been found to be the most effective source of heat generation, especially when in need of a high amount. A direct vent gas wall furnace was developed as a solution to this need. It is basically a propane heater with no electricity input needed to get running, which also contains a direct vented channel to the external environs. In this direct vent gas wall heaters reviews, we are going to discuss generally on vented gas wall heaters, and how venting is well thought of during design to protect users from hazards.
The whole design idea of direct vent wall furnace is to ensure that residues from combustion in the heater are well disposed of to the external atmosphere of the home. It is a direct vent natural gas heater that takes air from the external environment to air combustion.
This is why it needs to be wall-mounted for direct vent furnace purposes. This design is seen in so many applications today, for example, a vented propane heater for the cabin, and even in homes too as another option instead of a space heater.
There are also other kinds of heaters, which would have been our point of dwelling if considering heating reviews. However, we would be rather focused on gas direct vent wall furnace and would be looking at some top recommended products in this gas furnace reviews.
The top of the cherry castle is Rinnai EX22CT, which is a very effective product for heating up large areas. It comes with a programmable thermostat whose needle eye accuracy measures every 1-degree increment in temperature, balancing it depending on user setting.
TOP 5 Direct vent gas wall heaters reviews
1) Rinnai EX22CT Direct Vent Wall Furnace
Although primarily it’s a wall-mounted type of heater, we are adding it to the list of Direct vent gas wall heaters reviews because this unit also comes with an option for simply being placed on the floor. it could as well be placed close to its venting source.
Produced by Rinnai, the EX22CT basically tops the chat for performance and quality amongst many direct vet gas heaters and is a really good pick for use in large spaces.
Altitude compatibility
One of the major problems associated with using heaters is how they are unable to function when used in places at high altitudes, which somehow interferes with their system. This is addressed in the Rinnai EX22CT, however, as they can work at heights up to 10,200sqft above sea level, making it perfect for high rise buildings and hilly homes.
Modulating Technology with a programmable thermostat
With a built-in convection fan, the heater is not just only able to release heat into the surroundings, but also spreads it across in an even manner. This feature is called modulating Technology. It works with a precise programmable thermostat, which constantly monitors temperature changes and heats accordingly. The thermostat is programmable, allowing users to select exactly what they desire, which the heater keeps from thereon.
It comes with a user-friendly control panel for simple use and is able to produce an impressive total heat input range of 21,500BTU per hour. With noise level as low at 42dB maximum, we can safely conclude that it is pretty quiet for its size too, and comes with two models; for natural gas and propane as a fuel source. This is an awesome heater overall, be ready, however, to pat with quite a sum of money as purchase cost.
What we like
- Control panel lock for preventing unintended operation,
- programmable thermostat feature for monitoring and maintaining temperature,
- easy and flexible install option,
- fan modulating technology for even distribution of heat,
- able to work at high altitudes up to 10,200sqft,
- produces heat of up to 21,500BTU,
- operates pretty quietly for its size,
- can serve a very large area.
What we dislike
- Get ready to part with a little fortune to purchase.
Warranty
- Comes with ten years on heat exchanger, two years labor and five years on part warrantee,
2) Rinnai EX17CT Direct Vent Wall Furnace
It’s no surprise that another Rinnai wall furnace follows on our list of recommended heaters because they really do make good products. The EX17CT is basically a mirror of the just reviewed EX22CT model, only with little changes here and there, mostly in maximum heat capacity. It is overall a very good heater, which is very useful for use over very large areas.
Heat input rate with modulating Technology
With the design range standing at 8,200 to 16,700 BTU per hour, this device pulls in and generates enough combustion to produce heat sufficient enough to raise the temperature of very large areas. This impressive heat capacity is seconded by the same modulating Technology found in the EX22CT model, which is essentially a fan that distributes heat generated evenly across the home, ensuring that no particular area remains cold.
Works at high altitude
This heater can also work at high altitudes, making it cut across several types of buildings and terrains. From the study, we can say for sure that it works at altitudes as high as 6000sqft, though we are not sure if it can go higher, compared to the EX22CT that can work for sure. It is, however, stated by its manufacturer that it can function at up to 10,200sqft like the bigger model.
The design and heat range of this device means that it can either take on the burden of primarily generating heat required in the home, or work as a support system to supplement a preinstalled furnace. Whichever one you desire, it fits perfectly. It can also either be wall-mounted or placed on the floor closer to its venting source, making installation pretty much a piece of cake.
What we like
- high heat input rate of 16,700BTU per hour,
- able to serve as supplementary or primary heating source,
- programmable thermostat for monitoring and temperature control,
- operates very quietly,
- can heat very large areas,
- can function at high altitudes,
- modulating Technology for even heat distribution
What we dislike
- it is relatively expensive.
Warranty
- Comes with ten years on heat exchanger, two years labor and five years on part warrantee,
3) Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Heater Furnace
The Martin Direct Vent Propane Heater is one of those electrical devices that makes you look twice any time you come across it. With a really cool design and fireplace display to match, this wall heater is easily a top choice for those looking to heat moderately-sized areas.
It is designed and manufactured by Martin Direct to be very durable and has a long life.
The heater’s thermostat is built, with a control knob placed outwards for easy control. This knob allows users to vary between a range with min and max points, respectively, which, once set, the temperature remains constant regardless of thermal variations. It is a tagged room thermostat because the flame adjusts to the temperature of the room, preventing overheating, gas wastage, and noise pollution.
For those who desire more knowledge about the product for guarantee and buyers’ security, you should know that it is certified for use all across the USA and Canada.
This heater is a heavy-duty grill made with die-cast aluminum and glass-ceramic window. With these features, be sure that it is not getting damaged anytime soon. One thing the design doesn’t account for, however, is how hot its body gets while in operation. It can literally cause skin burns, so beware.
In all, the heater comes with a purchase option of two different models, an 11,000 BTU and 20,000BTU (we reviewed the 11,000). A common problem with many users around the world is with the pilot lamp. It sometimes is very difficult to start (poor knob design), or not visible at all when it does. There have also been instances of the gas overshooting to prevent the flame from actually thriving till combustion.
What we like
- built in-room thermostat for heat monitoring,
- good heat output of 11,000BTU or 20,000BTU available models,
- nice looks with fireplace display design,
- installation is as easy as it gets,
- very durable
What we dislike
- poor customer service and instruction manual description,
- very hot body while in operation,
- poor pilot lamp knob control
Warranty
- It comes with a five-year warranty.
4) 14000 BTU/Hr. Direct-Vent Furnace Natural Gas Heater
This heater is designed and manufactured by Williams Furnace Company, with the very impressive build, and overall impressive heating performance. It is essentially medium-sized and doesn’t cause much fuss as per mounting, though you should be ready to give up a pretty large chunk wall space to accommodate it.
A major highlight about this device is how it doesn’t require electricity to perform, unlike the Rinnai models. This feature makes it great for a power outage, while also adding zero increments on your monthly energy bills.
Firstly, the internal structure of the combustion chamber of this heater is ceramic coated, maximizing heat generated as a result of combustion for overall device efficiency. This means that using this device would give you almost a heat amount almost directly proportional to its level of combustion.
Unlike most other heaters that you would either have to purchase a natural gas or propane model, this product is rather only natural gas. However, this natural gas can be easily converted to propane gas with the separate purchase and use of conversion kit model number 8939. It can be picked up at any HVAC supply home.
It is rated for, and can only work at attitude up to 2000sqft, so be sure to do the math of your home before making a decision. Its automatic temperature sensor helps for easy regulation of temperature, avoiding overheating for safety reasons, and it makes use of a matchless pilot igniter.
What we like
- automatic thermostat for temperature control,
- no extra cost on electrical power,
- very durable build and design,
- specially designed combustion chamber for high efficiency
What we dislike
- cannot function in high altitude areas,
- fair heat capacity,
Warrantee
- Not specified
5) Mr. Heater F260550 Big Maxx MHU50NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
Mr. Heater is actually a very common manufacturer of heaters, obviously, having several years of customer service experience under their belt. Amongst the decent of their ranks is the F260550, which is a pretty decent product for getting rid of a cold in a relatively small area.
Suitable for small spaces
As earlier said, this device is more suited to serve relatively small areas of up to 1250sqft. Though this seems like a large area, in fact, it falls in the category of large room size when considering conventional standards; however, compared to the room coverage capacity of other products on our list, this one is really poor and the lowest. This is why we say it is suitable for small rooms, though it can cover up to 1250sqft.
The heat capacity is also affected; as a result, standing at 50,000BTU, which looks very impressive at first, but remember that these specifications are rated for 1250sqft. With its output of 50,000BTU, it still cannot do the job of the Rinnai product with 21,500BTU, which can cover over 10,000sqft. Get the logic; bigger doesn’t always mean better, as the rated room size is also very important.
Powered exhaust
With a powered exhausted, the device can be mounted in either a horizontal or vertical manner, affording users more flexibility without affecting its exhaust process. It comes with brackets through it, which is mounted on a rooftop with the easy installation process and doesn’t require electricity to function.
Unlike the Williams Furnace Company’s product, the natural gas to propane conversion kit is actually included in the purchase package, offering users a choice of using any of the two sources of fuel. For temperature regulation and control, wall-mounted thermostats are available for separate purchase. Do note that the device must be mounted with a minimum of 8ft clearance away from the floor to the base of the heater.
What we like
- high heat output capacity,
- can be used for horizontal or vertical venting due to powered exhaust,
- doesn’t require an electrical supply to function,
- thermostat available for separate purchase,
- natural gas to liquid propane conversing kit included,
- easy to install
What we dislike
- minimum of 8ft clearance from floor to base of heater required,
- suitable for relatively small spaces
Warranty
- It comes with three years limited warranty on parts and burners and a ten-year warranty on defects in the heat exchanger.
What is a direct vent wall furnace?
These are systems that are mounted on an outside wall, with the main purpose of drawing in outdoor air through its vent within the vent system for supporting combustion.
The furnace is part of a two-unit heater, with one end on the outward side, while the other remains inwards. With this system in place, the outward vent draws in air, which enters the combustion chamber along with a fuel source for combustion, and heat generated is released inwards.
After combustion, residues are also vented outwards, leaving home completely free from potentially harmful gases.
Do gas wall heater need to be vented?
First of all, let’s get one thing straight, which is the fact that every gas heater would need some sort of ventilation, except those miniature ones with blue flame technology.
This type of heater is a gas type. Therefore it requires vent too, like every other gas heaters, especially since it generates so much heat. It is for this reason that the wall-mounted heater has an outdoor part on the outside, through which gas residues from combustion are vented.
Considerations in picking the top heater for direct vent gas wall heaters reviews
Heat capacity:
This is the maximum amount of heat that can be generated by the combustion process going on in the heater. The capacity of a heater is always rated alongside its coverage area, which should be taken note of, meaning that higher is not always better.
Considering the Direct vent gas wall heaters reviews For example.
30,000BTU per hour device, rated for 300sqft, wouldn’t be more powerful than a 10,000BTU per hour device, which is rated for 1000sqft. In fact, their prices would differ a lot in the market
Warranty:
heaters are generally expensive. However, direct vent gas wall heaters are even more expensive, and therefore it is necessary some kind of assurance comes with the purchase. With a little manufacturer’s error or excessive vibration during shipping, you can be left with an expensive piece of junk if not backed by a warranty. We, therefore, recommend you don’t go for one that doesn’t have.
Ease of installation:
wall mounting is never easy; it has never been; however, many manufacturers design devices today in such a way that it is a pretty straight forward hang on the wall.
For easy installation, mounting brackets are provided, as well as other accessories required to get the heater up and running. The height of this our recommendation is that you shouldn’t get a device that would require professional hire (extra cost) to get installed.
Altitude tolerance:
Heaters are generally less friendly with increased height, with many posing a problem of becoming completely useless above a certain height. There are some, however, which come with a bit of tolerance, like the Rinnai, for example, can function when used in altitudes as high as 10,200ssqft. Gauge your house’s height above sea level, to get something that would work for you.
Programmable thermostat:
With a programmable thermostat, users are able to vary the desired temperature, preventing overheating in the process too. We would say too that this is a must-have feature for your vent gas heater, as it is the only safety condition in them. They come in different kinds depending on manufacturers, with some allowing more precise selection and flexible control over the other.
Modulating fan for even heat distribution:
Heat generation is one thing, but the ability to evenly distribute the heat across a wide area is another, which is why this feature really comes in handy.
With a modulating fan, the heater is able to blow how the heat generated into far corners of the atmosphere, leaving nowhere cold, compared to others that just heat and hope it spread over time. Heaters with this feature always have a faster heat impact on individuals in the homes too.
Can you get carbon monoxide poisoning from a propane heater
The truth is that you can get carbon monoxide poisoning from any propane heater, though you should know that it is not primarily designed to do so.
Carbon monoxide is a result of incomplete gas combustion, often happening because devices are not in the best working condition.
When in perfect condition, it should produce what is called an ideal burn, which presents no danger of carbon monoxide portioning.
Therefore, if there is any form of imbalance present in the combustion chamber amongst either of the fuel, ignition, and air, then be sure to have a process that would yield so many gas residues, including carbon monoxide.
This is where proper maintenance comes in and is why heaters should be cleaned and serviced regularly because the accumulation of dirt in the combustion chamber could also add foreign bodies to the combustion process, causing carbon monoxide. It totally depends on the user.
So, are direct vent propane heaters safe?
Wall-mounted direct vent gas space heaters are actually the safest to operate because of its separate internal and external compartments.
The outdoor combustion air intake and flue gas vent are run through a single opening in your wall, while the outdoor covers are only about 6 inches in diameter, making them pretty small and not noticeable.
This two-part system separates residues from heat needed. Also, no indoor air is required for combustion, eliminating the risk of oxygen dropping to a critical level after the heater operates for a very long time.
Our Bottom line: Picking from the Direct vent gas wall heaters reviews
In the end, it was a close call, really, between the two Rinnai products. Ultimately, the EX22CT model came out on top. With they being essentially the same device, the Rinnai EX22CT beats the EX17CT due to the fact that it generates and releases more heat into the air per time.
They, however, both have awesome features, starting with user-friendly control panels with lock for unintended operation, a programmable thermostat for easy control, and maintenance of temperature depending on your desire.
They both operate pretty quiet and can work at high altitudes than most houses are on today while being able to serve up to 10,000sqfts in space. Most importantly, they are able to spread the heat generated, evenly across the room with a fan modulating technology
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