Converting a basement into a family room. room size is about 672 sq ft with 7′ ceilings. natural gas is available as a fuel. Would like to install a ventless heater in the space to save a little $ and make installation simpler. This would be a supplemental heat source for the home.
Anyone have any recommendations as to brand of ventless heaters? Pro or cons as compared to direct vent?
Replies
In general, "ventless" is a
In general, "ventless" is a bad way to go, because, as has often been noted in this forum, your house becomes the vent for the appliance, and because, if you follow the manufacturer's instructions, you will need to open a window all the while you run the heater--so there goes your efficiency. And, for every 100k of BTU's you get, you will be adding one gallon of water to the air in the house, which can add to any moisture problems you might already have.
Direct vent is a better option, if you can possibly do it.
You don't say where you live -- that would give us a lot of insight as to the construction of the home and how much the heater would be used, plus in colder climates a ventless will introduce too much moisture into the structure.
I would strongly recommend that you reconsider and use a direct vent unit.
"As a home inspector with
"As a home inspector with certifications for combustion analysis and carbon monoxide testing, I wouldn't put one in my hose."
I sure wouldn't want one in my hose as well!
>>>Combustion byproducts =
>>>Combustion byproducts = bad.
Yah, I'm surprised at how the marketing stuff is even allowed to exist. I guess it's all based on the "open window" concept, which won't be done if it's -20 outside.
As for "waking up dead", well, that may not happen, but consider this:
After a few years, or months, or days, of inhaling semi-combusted hydrocarbons, your brain may not be quite what it used to be. Said brain may not provide you with the means to achieve the standard of living that you are accustomed to. Is this mental depreciation of less economic value than investing in a better heating method?
What they said
Pretty much sums it up ... ventless not a good idea for all reasons stated. Don't cut corners with energy or your safety in this case. It may pain, you, but do it right ... do a good job ... then it won't pain you.
Who's selling the ventless idea to you anyway? Got a website?