Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 30,000 BTU Wall Heater Review for Homes

Description

My Honest Take on the Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 30,000 BTU Liquid Propane Infrared Vent Free Wall Heater (Review)

I’ll admit it: I wasn’t entirely sold on the Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 heater when I first came across it. I had read numerous glowing reviews, but then again, I’ve seen marketing hype before. But after weeks of battling fluctuating temperatures in my garage-turned-art-studio, I caved and gave this infrared vent-free propane wall heater a shot. Spoiler alert: My initial skepticism turned into a mix of admiration and some minor gripes. Let me walk you through my experience.

Setting It Up Was… an Adventure

Let me just say, assembly required should come with a disclaimer: “Also, a crash course on propane systems might help.” The Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 comes with all the hardware for wall mounting, and though it seemed straightforward, I still ended up making a pit stop at the local hardware store for a fitting. My neighbor, who has a knack for DIY projects, swooped in to save the day. He had it mounted on the wall in under an hour, and voilà, the heater was ready to go.

First Impressions: Warmth That Packs a Punch

Once I fired it up, I was genuinely impressed. This 30,000 BTU beast can warm up a space of up to 1,000 sq. ft., and let me tell you, it doesn’t hold back. My garage—where I now spend hours painting—went from freezing to cozy in less than 15 minutes. The infrared heating technology reminded me of sitting under the sun on a winter afternoon, as it heats objects in the room first, not just the air.

The manual control knob lets you toggle between low (6,000 BTU), medium (18,000 BTU), and high (30,000 BTU) settings, which is great for tailoring the heat output. On most days, the medium setting works wonders, but for particularly chilly mornings, cranking it up to high is a game-changer.

A Word on Noise (Or Lack Thereof)

One feature I love is its noiseless operation. Unlike some heaters that hum, buzz, or otherwise make you feel like you’re working next to a generator, the Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 is blissfully silent. This is particularly important for anyone who values peace and quiet—whether you’re working, sleeping, or just relaxing.

The Downsides: No Heater Is Perfect

Okay, while this heater has a lot going for it, it’s not without its quirks. For one, it requires a 100-lb propane tank (or larger) to run efficiently. That’s not something I realized at first, and it took some juggling to figure out the logistics. Also, while the oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) is an excellent safety feature, the pilot light can be finicky. There were a couple of instances where it needed multiple tries to ignite.

Additionally, the heater doesn’t come with a thermostat. While the adjustable heat knob offers decent control, it’s not as precise as a thermostat would be. Personally, I found myself fiddling with the settings more than I’d like, especially during temperature fluctuations.

Comparing to the Competition

I also compared this heater to two other contenders: the Mr. Heater F299730 and the Bluegrass Living 30,000 BTU Gas Heater. Here’s how the Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 stacked up:

• Mr. Heater F299730: While it offers similar heating capacity, this model has a built-in thermostat, which is a clear advantage. However, the Dyna-Glo wins on affordability and simplicity.
• Bluegrass Living Heater: This one is sleek and has a fan blower included, but it’s louder and pricier. The Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 holds its own with its noiseless operation and better value for money.

Is It Worth the Cost?

When evaluating its price against its features, the Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 provides solid value. The 99.9% efficiency rate means you’re getting maximum heat for your buck, and the fact that it doesn’t rely on electricity is a big plus for emergency situations. If you’re in an area prone to power outages, this heater could be a lifesaver.

That said, the lack of a built-in fan (optional fan sold separately) means you might not get the best heat distribution in larger spaces unless you invest in that accessory. Still, considering that it’s a durable propane heater with robust safety features, it’s a worthwhile investment for most homeowners.

Features I Tested and Loved

While I’ve touched on a few already, let me elaborate on the standout features:

• Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS): This feature gives you peace of mind, as it automatically shuts off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low.
• Wall Mounting Bracket: The included bracket makes installation relatively simple, even for DIY novices.
• Optional Accessories: Adding the WHF100 fan can enhance heating efficiency, while the WBL100 base legs allow for floor mounting if wall installation isn’t your thing.

In summary, the Dyna-Glo IR30PMDG-1 is a dependable, efficient heater that punches above its weight in terms of heating performance. While it’s not without its challenges, such as requiring a large propane tank and lacking a thermostat, its efficiency, safety features, and noiseless operation make it a strong contender in the world of propane heaters. If you’re looking for a heater that’s simple, reliable, and effective, this might just be the one for you.

Pros

• High Heat Output: Can heat up to 1,000 sq. ft. with ease.
• Silent Operation: Ideal for peaceful environments.
• Energy Efficiency: 99.9% efficient for cost-effective heating.
• Safety Features: Includes ODS to prevent carbon monoxide risks.
• Versatile: Works in homes, cabins, and garages.

Cons

• Propane Tank Requirement: Needs a 100-lb propane tank or larger.
• No Thermostat: Lacks precise temperature control.
• Pilot Light Issues: Can take a few tries to ignite.
• Optional Fan Sold Separately: Not included, but necessary for optimal heat distribution.

Additional information