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Podcast Shorts

Vented vs. Ventless Gas Heater

The podcast team explains how ventless gas heaters work, why they are dangerous and potentially not worth the cheap price, and what to consider instead.

By Patrick McCombe, Matthew Millham, Justin Fink

In this clip from Podcast Episode 152, the Fine Homebuilding crew responds to this question from podcast listener F. Ponzani:

“I want to add some heat to my garage. I’m looking at the ProCom ventless gas heaters sold by Northern Tool and Harbor Freight, amongst others. These are sheet-metal units that can be mounted on the wall. They come in two flavors: radiant (heats objects) and “Blue Flame” (heats the air in the room).

I generally understand the difference between the two, but I have been unable to find anybody who can tell me the pros and cons of each type as related to heating an attached garage. I want to keep the temp in the 40s or low 50s and just turn it up when I’m working on a project in the garage. Which is preferred?”

Watch to hear what Patrick McCombe, Matthew Millham, and Justin Fink have to say about using ventless or vented gas heaters, including:

  • How both of these options work
  • Why Justin thinks neither are a good idea because of safety issues
  • Why Patrick thinks you should consider a vented gas heater or a minisplit

RELATED LINKS

  • Making Sense of Minisplits
  • Gas Fireplaces: Direct Vent vs. Vent-Free
  • How to Keep a Garage Shop Toasty Warm

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  1. benda71 | Mar 21, 2022 12:28am | #1

    Thanks for explaining how ventless gas heaters works.

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