Since the ventless garage heater is also called a gas heater, it uses natural gas, propane to generate heat for your room. As you are aware that installing a ventless garage heater is not an easy task, it requires attention and care. The heater operates best when connected to an outside mounted natural gas supply line or a chimney flue pipe.
Is the ventless garage heater safe?
A ventless garage heater with a gas flame can often be unsafe. A lot of experts advise against the use of these heaters because they emit carbon monoxide, which is highly poisonous to humans. If you breathe in toxic gasses like carbon monoxide for a longer period, it can damage your health seriously. If you have one of these heaters in your garage, then you are playing with fire!
There are two types of ventless heaters that you can use in your garage, infrared and electric. Both have their pros and cons. As long as you do not use them for extended periods, they are safe enough to be used in your garage. However, using them for more than 20 minutes at a stretch can also be hazardous.
How to install a ventless garage heater?
Ventless garage heater installation is a relatively simple task, but it may require a bit of help if you decide to go without the help of a professional. Here are some basic instructions on how to install a ventless garage heater:
The first step to installing a ventless garage heater is to ensure that all electrical connections are safe and insulated and the connection between the gas line and the appliance. The next step would be to find an appropriate location for the heater, which should be some distance off of any flammable materials, and also away from those that can’t tolerate moisture. Vent-free heaters operate with zero ventilation, so one should never place them near building materials that are even slightly flammable.
The next step would be to open the gas supply valve slowly to prevent any unnecessary build-up of gas in the heater. After that, turning on the unit will usually require flipping a switch or pushing a button, and this should be done once all connections have been rechecked to ensure no leaks. Once the heater has been turned on, one should allow about 5-10 minutes to begin working before returning to the area.
It is also essential to keep a fire extinguisher nearby if any problems occur with your unit during operation. If this does happen, make sure you contact the manufacturer and a professional to fix the unit.
Besides, the excellent idea is to have a professional check your heater. Your ventless garage heaters should be inspected and serviced by a local gas technician at least once a year, following the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and yearly inspection.
If you are concerned about indoor air quality or if your area does not have access to natural gas, there are other alternatives. These include electric garage heaters and propane or kerosene space heaters that can be used in more enclosed spaces such as garages.
