Factors to Consider When Buying an Indoor Propane Heater

If you need a new heating system in your home, don’t overspend on a new furnace. They’re expensive, wasteful, environmentally hazardous, and they’re also unnecessary!

Instead, opt for a propane heater, which burns hotter and more efficiently. You just have to know what to look for, but we can help with that. Here’s what you need to know about choosing a propane heater indoors!

BTUs

First, you need to find a heater that meets your heating demand. Typically, heating is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). On average, you will need around 20 BTUs per square foot. This means that in a 600 sq ft room, you would need around 12,000 BTUs for a reliable and comfortable heating source.

You can push that limit a little bit, but that’s a great rule of thumb. Also, if you have particularly high ceilings, you may need a little more to stay comfortable. Turn your ceiling fans around for optimal heat dispersion!

Design

In most cases, direct vent heaters are the way to go for ease of installation and safety. For example, Martin direct vent heaters connect directly to your propane tank and bring exhaust out of your home immediately.

Also, you don’t want the indoor unit to be an eye sore. Instead, look for a heater with a fireplace display, like Martin’s glass-ceramic windows!

Efficiency

Propane heaters are never 100% efficient, and that’s okay. They’re still a lot cheaper to run than 100% efficient electric resistance heat.

However, you want to find a heater with third-party credentials. Ideally, propane heaters should be at least 80% efficient with outside certifications. Some are as low as 50%, which is just a waste of fuel.

Safety

First, the direct vents need to carry out exhaust properly. There should be no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home, but always keep a detector handy, just in case!

Another safety consideration is how your indoor propane heater operates without electricity. You don’t want to be caught in a winter storm without access to heat.

Most importantly, you will need a propane heater with a tip-over safety switch. If the system tips over, propane can leak into your home, which can pose serious fire and health risks. A tip-over safety switch is the best solution to shut off the propane supply in the event of the heater falling.

Price

Finally, we go to the price. Of course, we want to save money, but the price tag isn’t the only factor to consider here. You also have to consider the cost of installation, maintenance, and how often you will need to replace your heater.

You can go to your local department or hardware store and pick up a propane heater, but in most cases, it won’t last for very long. On the other hand, Martin propane heaters last for years with minimal use, which can save you a small fortune, especially if you’re considering a new furnace or home heating system!

Buy a Martin Propane Heater Today

Now that you know the factors to consider, you can see why Martin propane heaters are the best in the business. They’re safe, efficient, cost-effective, and they have a great design!

Stay up to date with our latest product tips, and buy a Martin propane heater today with free shipping and a price match guarantee!