7 Best Direct Vent Propane Heaters of 2026

Silent, intelligent, and powerfully efficient—the Rinnai EX38DTP redefines what a direct vent propane heater can be. With 36,500 BTU of modulating heat output, it dynamically adjusts flame intensity to maintain a consistent room temperature, eliminating the on-off cycling common in cheaper units. This isn’t just a heater; it’s a climate-smart system that uses self-diagnostic electronics and Wi-Fi-enabled programmable thermostat integration to deliver precision comfort, making it ideal for homeowners tired of temperature swings and noisy burners. Families will especially appreciate the cool-to-the-touch cabinet, a rare safety feature that sets it apart in high-traffic or child-friendly environments.

In real-world use, the EX38DTP excels in medium to large living areas up to 1,200 sq. ft., maintaining warmth without overworking—thanks to its sealed combustion system that pulls air from outside, preserving indoor air quality. The direct vent design requires only a 3-inch penetration through an exterior wall, simplifying installation in retrofit scenarios. While it demands professional setup due to gas and venting requirements, the included diagnostics make troubleshooting a breeze. That said, its higher upfront cost and reliance on skilled installation may deter DIYers or those in tight-budget scenarios.

Compared to the Ashley and Comfort Glow models, the Rinnai trades raw simplicity for smart automation and superior energy modulation. Where others offer manual or basic thermostatic control, this unit learns your habits and adjusts accordingly—perfect for tech-savvy users or those prioritizing long-term comfort and efficiency. It’s not the most portable or budget-friendly, but for those seeking a high-end, set-and-forget heating solution with residential-grade intelligence, the Rinnai stands alone. It delivers more refined performance and connectivity than the Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU, justifying its premium positioning despite lacking dual-fuel flexibility.

Fuel-flexible and ruggedly reliable, the Ashley 17k Dual Fuel heater is a game-changer for homes uncertain about long-term gas availability. Engineered with the ability to run on either natural gas or propane, it offers unmatched adaptability—ideal for off-grid cabins, renovations, or regions with shifting utility access. Its 430 stainless steel ported burner ensures whisper-quiet ignition and operation, a standout in a category often plagued by clunky startup noises. With 17,000 BTU output and coverage up to 570 sq. ft., it strikes a sweet spot between efficiency and heating power for living rooms or master bedrooms.

During testing, the Ashley proved exceptionally user-friendly: the matchless Piezo ignition fired instantly, and the sealed combustion system maintained clean, safe operation even during extended winter use. The included direct vent kit (with flashing, cap, and intake pipe) eliminates guesswork during installation, and its approval for mobile and modular homes expands its usability. However, its thermostatic control is manual, meaning no scheduling or remote adjustments—users must physically adjust heat levels, which can be inconvenient for modern households.

When stacked against the Rinnai EX38DTP, the Ashley sacrifices smart features and heating capacity for versatility and affordability. It doesn’t offer Wi-Fi or modulating heat, but it wins in fuel independence and ease of setup. For homeowners who value future-proofing their heating system over automation, this is the smarter pick. It heats more space than the Comfort Glow 8,000 BTU model and offers dual-fuel capability that the Rinnai lacks, making it a more flexible workhorse despite its simpler tech profile.

Big-room ready and blackout-proof, the Comfort Glow 25,000 BTU heater is a powerhouse built for spaces up to 825 sq. ft.—perfect for open-concept lofts, basements, or drafty older homes. What makes it truly stand out is its ability to operate without electricity, delivering dependable warmth during storms or grid failures, a critical advantage over forced-air systems. The sealed combustion system and matchless Piezo ignition ensure safe, consistent starts, while the adjustable thermostatic control lets users fine-tune heat output without constant monitoring.

In real-world testing, this heater proved remarkably resilient in cold conditions, quickly raising ambient temperatures in poorly insulated rooms. Its direct wall venting system requires no chimney or complex ductwork, making it ideal for retrofit installations where space is limited. The large footprint (32.25” W) means it’s not ideal for tight corners, but the wall-mounted design keeps floors clear and improves heat distribution. One limitation: the ignition requires firm button presses, which may be difficult for users with limited hand strength.

Against the Ashley 17k, this model offers nearly 50% more heating power and broader coverage, though it lacks dual-fuel capability. It’s a stronger choice than the Rinnai for users prioritizing large-space performance and off-grid resilience, even if it doesn’t match the Rinnai’s smart features. For those needing robust, no-frills heat in medium to large rooms without relying on power, this Comfort Glow model delivers unmatched reliability and scale. It out-heats every other unit in this lineup except the Rinnai, with simpler operation and lower complexity.

Compact, quiet, and perfectly scaled, the Ashley 11,000 BTU heater is a surgical solution for small spaces where oversized units would overheat or waste fuel. With 375 sq. ft. of targeted heating, it’s ideal for dens, guest rooms, or sunrooms—spaces often neglected by central HVAC. The stainless steel ported burner operates nearly silently, a rare trait that enhances comfort in noise-sensitive areas like bedrooms or home offices. Its sealed combustion system ensures clean indoor air, pulling oxygen from outside and expelling exhaust safely, making it safe for continuous use in occupied rooms.

Installation is refreshingly straightforward: the complete venting kit is included, and the matchless Piezo ignition delivers reliable startup without matches or batteries. We found it particularly effective in mobile homes and modular units, where energy efficiency and safety are paramount. However, its manual heat control requires constant adjustment, and the 11,000 BTU limit means it struggles in drafty or open-plan areas—this is not a whole-house solution.

Compared to the Comfort Glow 8,000 BTU model, it offers more power and coverage while maintaining similar ease of use and safety. It’s less versatile than the dual-fuel Ashley 17k but more focused, making it the better choice for dedicated small-space heating. For those who need a no-nonsense, safe, and efficient heater for compact areas, this Ashley model hits the sweet spot between performance and footprint. It heats more effectively than the smallest Comfort Glow while retaining the same plug-and-play simplicity.

Affordable, dependable, and effortlessly simple, the Comfort Glow 8,000 BTU heater is the entry point into safe, wall-mounted propane heating without compromise. It delivers reliable warmth for spaces up to 280 sq. ft., making it perfect for home offices, small bedrooms, or seasonal cabins where central heat falls short. Its direct vent system requires no electricity, ensuring operation during outages—a lifeline in winter emergencies. With matchless Piezo ignition and a safety pilot with pressure regulator, it starts quickly and shuts down automatically if the flame dies, offering peace of mind without complexity.

In real-world use, this heater shines in simplicity: it installs cleanly on the wall, vents directly outside, and requires no wiring or smart setup. The sealed burn system keeps indoor air clean, a crucial feature for allergy sufferers or in tightly insulated spaces. While its 8,000 BTU output won’t heat large areas, it maintains steady warmth in its target zone without cycling excessively. The manual heat dial lacks automation, meaning no scheduling or remote adjustments—fine for basic needs, but limiting for modern expectations.

Against the Ashley 11,000 BTU model, it trades power and coverage for lower cost and easier placement in ultra-compact areas. It’s the most budget-conscious option here, yet still delivers core safety and performance features found in pricier units. For first-time buyers or those needing a secondary heat source in a small room, this Comfort Glow model is the smartest starting point. It may not match the Rinnai’s intelligence or the Ashley’s fuel flexibility, but it offers the best value for basic, safe, no-frills heating.