Until recently, all direct-vent
space heaters were simple
gas-fired units used to provide
heat for additions,
workshops, or seasonal homes. In the
past few years, however, there have
been dramatic technical improvements
in direct-vent heaters, which now
include kerosene-fueled models (see
Figure 1, next page). These heaters have
a relatively low initial cost, are fuel efficient,
and perform well. Since they
don't require a basement or utility
room, direct-vent heaters are often
chosen as the primary heating source
for apartments and small homes.
Not Your Father's Oldsmobile
The older generation of direct-vent
space heaters has gas-fired atmospheric
burners with standing pilot lights. Most
of them have no fan to distribute the
heat, and require no electricity. Two
U.S. manufacturers of this style