Direct vent natural gas heaters provide efficient heating with venting that exhausts outdoors, helping keep indoor air clean while delivering reliable warmth. This guide highlights five top models suitable for homes, apartments, and offices, emphasizing safety features, energy efficiency, and space suitability. Each product section includes quick specs, notable features, and practical considerations to help you compare options at a glance.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Ashley DVAG17N | 17,000 | Up to 570 sq. ft. |
| Ashley DVAG11N | 11,000 | Up to 375 sq. ft. |
| Rinnai EX22DTWN | 21,500 | Varies by installation |
| Rinnai EX38DTWN | 38,400 | Large spaces |
| Rinnai EX17DTN | 17,000 | Medium spaces |
When evaluating direct vent gas heaters, consider installation flexibility, venting requirements, efficiency ratings, safety features, and compatibility with your gas type and existing wiring. The following sections provide concise, objective overviews of five top options to help you decide which model aligns with your space and heating goals.
Ashley DVAG17N 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas Heater
The Ashley DVAG17N provides 17,000 BTU heat input capable of warming rooms up to approximately 570 square feet. It is designed for natural gas use and features a sealed burn system that enhances safety and efficiency, making it suitable for bedrooms and living spaces where clean operation is important. While delivering consistent warmth, its compact footprint supports installation in tighter layouts without sacrificing performance.
Ashley DVAG11N 11,000 BTU Direct Vent Natural Gas Heater
With 11,000 BTU heat input, the DVAG11N heats up to about 375 square feet. Also designed for natural gas, it uses a sealed burn system to maintain clean, efficient combustion. This model is well-suited for smaller living areas or bedrooms where steady heat output and quiet operation are preferred.
Rinnai EX22DTWN Direct Vent Wall Furnace
Rinnai’s EX22DTWN delivers 21,500 BTU and uses direct venting to optimize heat distribution while minimizing drafts. Its modulation technology maintains comfortable temperatures and reduces energy waste. The cabinet stays cool to the touch, and self-diagnostic electronics support safe operation, making it a solid option for families seeking dependable performance with robust safety features. The unit’s design emphasizes efficient space heating without sacrificing comfort across a range of room sizes.
Rinnai EX38DTWN Direct Vent Wall Furnace
The EX38DTWN provides 38,400 BTU for larger spaces, using advanced modulating technology to balance heat output with room demands. Its cool-to-the-touch cabinet and self-diagnostic electronics enhance safety and ease of use, while precise heat matching helps conserve fuel. This model is designed for bigger living areas or open-concept spaces where steady, scalable heating is beneficial, offering reliable warmth with modern controls.
Rinnai EX17DTN Direct Vent Wall Furnace
The 17,000 BTU EX17DTN is a compact direct vent option suitable for mid-sized rooms. It leverages Rinnai’s modulation technology for efficient heating and a cool-to-the-touch cabinet for safety. Self-diagnostic electronics support reliable operation, and the unit’s design prioritizes quiet performance and straightforward installation for apartments or smaller homes where space is at a premium.
Buying Guide
Direct vent gas heaters are designed to vent combustion byproducts outdoors while drawing air from outside for combustion. When choosing a model, consider these factors:
- Room size and BTU requirements: Larger spaces require higher BTU ratings (e.g., 21,500–38,400 BTU) to achieve even warmth without overworking the system.
- Venting and installation: Direct vent units need proper venting to the outside; ensure wall or corner space accommodates vent pipes and clearance requirements.
- Efficiency and modulation: Models with modulating burners adjust heat output to match demand, improving energy use and comfort.
- Safety features: Look for cool-to-the-touch cabinets, flame failure devices, oxygen depletion sensors, tilt switches, and self-diagnostic electronics for reliability.
- Fuel type and availability: Confirm compatibility with your natural gas supply and existing gas line setup; some units are dual-fuel or strictly gas.
- Noise and aesthetics: Consider cabinet design, noise levels, and how the heater integrates with room decor and furniture layout.
- Maintenance and diagnostics: Self-diagnostics simplify service calls and ongoing upkeep; verify access to replacement parts and support.
- Space efficiency: Wall-mounted or compact models suit apartments or rooms with limited floor space; larger units suit open-plan living areas.
- Warranty and service network: A broad manufacturer network and solid warranty can reduce long-term ownership costs.
Across the options, direct vent wall heaters from Rinnai generally emphasize precise temperature control, safety features, and energy-conscious operation. Ashley models provide compact, targeted heating with sealed burn systems. Matching BTU capacity to the room size and aligning venting requirements with your home plan are key to achieving optimal warmth and efficiency.