How to Choose The Right Natural Gas Heaters for Your Home
Introduction
Natural gas heaters are an increasingly popular choice for heating homes and commercial spaces. With their efficient use of energy and comparatively lower cost, they’re becoming a go-to option for keeping warm. But before you purchase one, there are a few things you should consider. In this article, we’re going to look at the key factors to consider when choosing a natural gas heater.
Types of Natural Gas Heaters
There are various types of natural gas heaters, so it’s important to understand your options. The most common types are:
- Vent-Free Gas Heaters: These heaters are the most efficient and don’t require any venting, making them a great choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Wall-Mounted Gas Heaters: These heaters are installed directly into a wall, making them a great space-saving option.
- Floor Standing Gas Heaters: Floor standing gas heaters are great for larger spaces and can be mounted to the wall if desired.
- Gas Fireplaces: Gas fireplaces are a stylish and efficient way to heat your home.
Factors to Consider
Once you’ve decided which type of heater is best for your needs, there are several factors to consider when choosing a natural gas heater.
Size
Size is an important factor when choosing a natural gas heater. You’ll need to consider the size of the space you’ll be heating and the power output of the heater. It’s also important to make sure the heater isn’t too big for the space, as this could be a fire hazard.
Efficiency
Efficiency is another key factor to consider when choosing a natural gas heater. Look for a heater that is designed to be energy efficient and has a high-efficiency rating. This will help you save money on your heating costs.
Installation
Different types of natural gas heaters require different installation methods. Some require professional installation while others can be installed by the homeowner. Make sure you understand the installation requirements before making your purchase.
Safety
Safety is always a priority when it comes to natural gas heaters. Look for a heater that has a high safety rating and that is certified by a recognized safety organization. This will ensure that you and your family are safe in the event of a fire.
Cost
Finally, cost is an important factor to consider when choosing a natural gas heater. Prices can vary widely depending on the type of heater and the brand. Make sure you compare prices from different retailers to get the best deal.
Conclusion
Choosing a natural gas heater can be a daunting task. But with a bit of research and understanding of your options, you can find the perfect heater for your needs. Consider the factors outlined in this article, such as size, efficiency, installation, safety, and cost, to make sure you buy the best natural gas heater for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are natural gas heaters safe indoors?
No, outdoor gas heaters should never be used indoors as they are not designed for safe indoor use. It is important to have indoor gas heaters serviced by a qualified gasfitter at least every two years to ensure safety. This applies to both natural gas and LPG gas heaters.
2. Are natural gas heaters more efficient?
Yes, natural gas heaters are generally more efficient and cost-effective to operate. However, proper venting is necessary to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Adequate ventilation is essential for the safe and efficient use of natural gas heaters.
3. Can you leave a natural gas heater on overnight?
No, it is not safe to leave a gas heater running when you go to bed. Unflued gas heaters should never be used in bedrooms, bathrooms, or caravans due to the potential health risks associated with toxic gases.
4. Do you need to vent a natural gas heater?
Yes, it is important to vent natural gas heaters properly. Unvented gas heaters are designed for supplemental use only and should not be used in bedrooms, bathrooms, or confined spaces. Adequate ventilation, as specified in the owner's manual, is required. In homes with weatherstripped doors and windows, an outside air source may be necessary.
5. Do you need to open a window when using a gas heater?
To use a gas heater safely, ensure adequate ventilation in your home. Check that your permanent ventilation is clear and consider leaving a window open if necessary, especially when using an open-flued heater.
6. What are the disadvantages of natural gas heating?
Some disadvantages of natural gas heating include its nonrenewable nature, limited storage capabilities, carbon dioxide emissions, and the challenge of harnessing natural gas effectively.
7. Is it cheaper to use a space heater or natural gas?
While one space heater may save you money if you only need to heat one room, using a gas furnace to heat your entire home is generally more cost-effective. Even two low-wattage space heaters running 24 hours a day for a month would cost more than using a gas furnace for home heating purposes.
Editor's Notes
During our natural gas heater research, we found 24 natural gas heater products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 25,505 customer reviews through our big data system to write the natural gas heaters list. We found that most customers choose natural gas heaters with an average price of $212.81.
The natural gas heaters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of natural gas heaters, including Mr. Heater, Dyna-Glo, ProCom. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Mark Greer has been an excellent residential carpenter for eight years in Los Angeles and has complete knowledge of woodworking, power tools, and home DIY. He never misses a chance of the lookout for new features and innovations in popular and novel home appliances as an insightful writer.