Installing a Ventless Gas Heater

Ventless gas heaters have increased steadily in popularity over the last few years. They are convenient because they do not require a home to have an existing ventilation system in the location that the heater will be installed. The installation of these heaters is usually quite easy but there are some safety precautions that are important to take when installing a ventless gas heater in your home. Ventless gas heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is important to choose a model that will be efficient at heating the amount of space that is required. Make sure the model is equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor, as they are required by law.

When installing a ventless gas heater it is important to check local and state codes dealing with ventless heaters. Some states have banned the use of these types of heaters; others require that the heaters be installed by professionals.

The first thing that should be done is ensuring that the room where the ventless gas heater is to be installed has adequate insulation. A room with poor insulation will be devastating to the efficiency of these heaters and can be very costly. Rooms should have a minimum insulation thickness of 4 inches, but up to 6 inches is recommended for optimal efficiency.

A room that houses a ventless gas heater should have adequate fresh air for combustion and ventilation. Although these heaters are marketed as machines that do not need ventilation, they are still run on the principle of a combustion reaction. Combustion reactions generate gasses that are toxic to humans and animals in high concentrations so any room that has a heater that runs by these processes should be well ventilated.

One thing that should be installed right along with a ventless gas heater is a carbon monoxide detector. Ventless gas heaters and other appliances can release this toxic gas when they are not running properly. A carbon monoxide detector will protect you and your family from this odorless and colorless toxic gas.

Installing a ventless gas heater will only take a few hours with the right tools and dedication. These heaters are safe if installed in the right way. Most of these heaters will come with an installation guide that should be followed. If you need extra help you can also call the company and get additional help or even just check the internet to see what other consumers have said. Installation should be taken seriously because taking shortcuts and skipping information in the instructions can make a home danger prone.