How Does A Wall Furnace Work? A Detailed Guide & Analysis

Curious about wall furnaces? You’ve come to the right spot. Wall furnaces are gas-powered heating units that attach directly to a wall. They use natural gas or propane to create heat, which is then vented outside with a vent in the wall. The furnace’s pilot light starts the burning process in the combustion chamber. The warm air is released into your room, while exhaust gases go out the vent.

Why choose a wall furnace? They’re efficient and save floor space compared to other heating units. Plus, they come with their own blower fan for quiet and efficient heating without messing up your furniture.

Gas wall heaters also have a carbon monoxide detector. If CO levels get too high, the unsafe operation is shut down. Professional heating service technicians can help detect any gas leaks or potential risks.

Electric wall heaters are another option. They use electricity and give off clean heat quickly.

So why settle for boring when you can have a wall furnace that’ll heat things up?

Image of a wall furnace

What is a wall furnace?


Wall furnaces, also known as wall-mounted heaters or gas wall heaters, are a great way to heat up your home. They work by burning natural gas or propane in a combustion chamber to produce heat. This warmth is then circulated throughout the room.

Plus, they save valuable floor space since they are wall mounted. Many models come with a blower fan, allowing for faster and more efficient heat distribution.

It’s important to maintain wall furnaces properly. If not inspected and serviced regularly, they can become a fire hazard. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed nearby too, as unsafe gas leaks can occur. So, if there’s any suspicion of a problem, call a heating service technician right away.

Types of wall furnace


Gas wall furnace

Wall furnaces are a great choice for homes wanting to save space and cut down on heating costs. They work by burning fuel and sending warm air out through a vent or fan. Most models come with a modulating gas valve, making them energy efficient.

Venting is key for the unit’s safety and performance. Wall furnaces usually vent through an exterior wall or roof, removing combustion gases from the home. Professional servicing can detect any gas leaks or carbon monoxide dangers.

When looking for a wall furnace, consider the mounting style and brand. Wall-mounted units are great for small spaces, and should have auxiliary blower fans for better heat distribution. High-quality insulation can protect furniture and equipment from heat.

Safety is also important. Put carbon monoxide detectors near the heater, and always check smoke detectors throughout the house. Empty dustbins and cans next to exhaust vents to avoid the risk of fire.

Electric wall furnace

Electric wall heaters use electricity as power and come in fan-forced or radiant models. They don’t need venting and are great for small rooms. 

Electric wall heaters produce a different type of heat that may take longer to warm furniture than gas models

Ventless gas heater

Ventless gas heaters use natural gas or propane, don’t require ventilation, and are usually mounted on walls of mobile homes/apartments. Central heating units (or forced air systems) heat the whole house through ducts/vents.

Keep in mind that these options have different safety and installation requirements, e.g. ventless gas heaters must be used with carbon monoxide detectors. Do thorough research before deciding which type best suits your needs.

Be mindful of the choices you make when it comes to heating systems, if maintenance isn’t kept up, things can get pretty heated.

Venting and installation of a gas wall furnace


As a gas wall furnace technician, I know how important it is to properly vent and install. Ignoring those crucial steps can be very unsafe for your home and family. 

Here’s a guide:

  1. Choose the right spot for your gas wall furnace. Consider local laws, fuel supply, and floor space.
  2. Put in a combustion air vent next to the exhaust vent to guarantee good airflow.
  3. Connect the gas line and check for any leaks.
  4. Mount the wall furnace on the wall, making sure it’s level.
  5. Link the electrical power supply to your control board.
  6. Install a carbon monoxide detector near the heater for extra safety.

Always look at the manufacturer’s instructions before starting any work, as each model may have different installation instructions.

It’s also essential to remember that outdoor air can impact your gas wall heater’s performance and efficiency. You might need an auxiliary blower fan or other parts like coils to fix this.

Neglecting any details during installation can cause fire hazards, equipment damage, or hazardous gases in the home. Don’t take any chances if you’re not sure about something during installation, call a professional heating service technician for help.

Stay safe by having smoke detectors installed and turning off power during a power outage or if something falls over it accidentally. Also, be sure to check for leaks, carbon monoxide detectors, and a valid last will and testament before firing up your gas wall furnace.

Safety precautions for gas wall furnaces


Gas wall furnaces are the best way to enjoy efficient heat. 

But, they come with potential risks, so it’s essential to take safety precautions.

  1. Have a certified heating service technician install your gas wall furnace, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Plus, install carbon monoxide detectors in the room where the furnace is and throughout your home.
  2. Regular maintenance is a must to ensure safe operation of the gas wall furnace. So, call a professional for service at least once a year. They’ll inspect and clean the unit, and make sure all components are in good condition.
  3. When using the furnace, never leave it unattended or sleep with it on. Keep flammable materials away, and follow the correct installation guidelines. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, immediately turn it off and call a heating service technician.

For improved efficiency, get an auxiliary blower. Clean or replace air filters regularly, to prevent blockages in vents which can affect heat output.

Take safety seriously. Then you can enjoy the efficient heat of your gas wall furnace, without any fire hazards or gases.

Maintenance and servicing wall furnaces


Wall furnaces need special care for longevity and safety. This includes proper installation, regular cleaning, and safety checks. Qualified heating technicians should inspect it at least once a year. They’ll check for gas leaks, test combustion gases, clean/replace air filters, inspect the heat exchanger, and verify ventilation. Carbon monoxide detectors can also protect us from potential dangers.

Another important step is to examine the blower fan. Dust and debris can slow down efficiency and airflow. Clean with a vacuum or brush to get it running smoothly.

Don’t forget about power outages too. Gas supply may not turn on automatically after one. Stay cautious and safe to avoid fire hazards.

In conclusion, understanding wall furnaces is essential, unless you want to be left in the cold (or worse, in a fiery blaze).

Conclusion


Gas wall furnaces is an efficient heating equipment. Convert gas into heat and distribute warmth via a blower fan or auxiliary blower. Lower energy costs, too. Vented and ventless options are available. But, cautions are potential risks like fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and unsafe gas supply. Regular maintenance checks by a pro technician are recommended. When choosing a model, consider size of room to heat, fuel source, and furniture size. Opt for models with safety features like carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Near bedrooms install CO detectors for maximum protection.