It’s that time of year again – the chilly days of winter are upon us. If you’re looking for a way to stay warm, you might be considering buying a propane heater. But which type should you buy? A vented propane heater or an unvented propane heater?
In this post, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of heaters and help you decide which one is right for you. Read on to learn more.
Vented Vs. Unvented Propane Heaters
Vented Propane Heaters
Vented propane heaters are a budget-friendly and efficient choice for heating spaces. They’re easy to install, even if you don’t have any experience with them. They work well in small homes or cabins that need just one extra source of warm air on chillier days,
plus these types can easily accommodate larger rooms without overwhelming their surroundings too much, so it won’t take up all your living space.
Vented propane heaters are an excellent option for those that live in remote areas or have workshops. They can solve problems like cold spots caused by traditional homes not having electricity full-time, which means they’re perfect during winter when power outages happen more often than you might think.
Vented propane heaters are an excellent choice for any space, but it’s essential to consider each type’s different features and benefits. Consider how often you’ll be using your new heater as well as its size when deciding which model is suitable for you.
Advantages of Vented Propane Heaters
- They are perfect for smaller spaces.
- These types of propane heater venting mean that potentially dangerous fumes are not circulated indoors.
- The cost-efficiency of propane as a heating fuel is unmatched.
- These heaters are some of the most budget-friendly options out there.
- The great thing about propane is that it burns cleaner than other heating methods, meaning you can enjoy an environmentally sound experience while saving money.
Disadvantages of Vented Propane Heaters
- You cannot heat an ample space with these heaters.
- Propane heaters are easy to install, but they require some care. If you don’t follow these instructions carefully, there’s the potential for fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Families with small children or pets should know that the units get very hot, which may not always be safe for them, depending on how much time you spend with these heaters.
Read: Types of electric heaters for homes
Unvented Propane Heaters
Unvented propane heaters can be an excellent choice for many homes. They’re an affordable, efficient, clean alternative to traditional heated home appliances like space heaters or oil stoves.
Instead of using an external source for oxygen, these modern ventless propane heaters draw their needed supply right from where they’re located in the room. This mixes with propane gas and ignition starts up a process that provides warmth.
Ventless propane heaters are one of the most energy-efficient space heaters because they release hot air into a room without sending it up through an old chimney.
Advantages of Unvented Propane Heaters
- With these new efficient models, you can finally say goodbye to your old standby lights. With an output of up to 99% and low power consumption, they’re the perfect solution for any household that wants higher illumination without breaking your budget.
- High efficiency without high costs
- The high output of an unvented propane heater is what makes them so popular. They can produce up to 30,000 BTU.
- Ventless propane heaters allow you more freedom than traditional chimney-based models. They don’t require a fireplace’s intake or exhaust system, which means less time and money spent on installation.
Disadvantages of Unvented Propane Heaters
- The unvented propane heater can lead to carbon monoxide build-up that may cause headaches, confusion, and other poisoning symptoms in your home.
- Unvented propane heaters are not great for the environment because they lead to a shortage of oxygen.
- Unvented propane heaters don’t allow enough airflow for the moisture and debris within them, leading to increased humidity levels inside your home or business.
Read: Types of water heater for bathroom
How to Choose the Best Propane Heater
Size of Space
The British Thermal Unit (BTU) is used to estimate how much space your heater can heat. For example, a 100 square foot room would need at least 2000 BTUs of heat.
Placement
Where are you planning on installing your heater? Are there any areas of the house that require additional ventilation, like a closet or bedroom with carpeting? What type do you want: freestanding unit vs. wall-mounted unit?
Size of Unit
You’ll have to decide if you want a sleek, compact heater or one that’s large and rigid. You can find something in between with enough room for your needs.
Lifestyle
Do you have kids, pets, or other family members who could run into the heater? What lifestyle do you prefer?
Budget
How much do you think it would cost for your heater? Is this something that will be used temporarily, or are you looking at investing in a long-term fix?
Read: Conventional water heater
Frequently Asked Questions on Propane Heaters
What Is the Difference between Vented and Unvented Propane Heaters?
There are many benefits to vent-free propane heaters. They’re less expensive than vented options and offer greater installation flexibility since you don’t need access to an external wall. However, there is one downside: exhaust enters your home rather than exiting outside like with other heater styles.
Are Non-Vented Propane Heaters Safe?
Unvented gas heaters are a popular choice for homeowners with little ventilation in their houses. The three primary risks associated with un-Vented furnaces are fire, excessive condensation, and health hazards caused by fumes produced.
The great debate of vented Vs. Unvented propane heaters rage on, but at the end of the day, it all boils down to what’s best for you and your home.
Go with the vented option if you want an energy-efficient model that won’t produce any harmful emissions. But if you don’t mind sacrificing some efficiency for a more affordable model and don’t mind dealing with some extra noise, then the unvented propane heater is probably right for you.
Hopefully, this post has helped you better understand the pros and cons of each type of heater so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Read: Advantages of electric heating