Should I consider adding a roof vent to my shed-to-tiny-home conversion for proper ventilation with a ventless propane heater?
Asked by Jane Dunn 
7 months ago
Last Updated: June 1, 2024
Should I put a vent in the roof of this shed before I put in the fiberglass insulation? I’m turning this shed into a tiny home and I’m thinking of installing a ventless propane heater. I bring this up because I know the importance of proper ventilation when using propane. In my last conversion project, I had vents, but this shed only has a window that doesn’t open.
Just so you know, having a ventless propane heater in a living area is a serious risk for CO poisoning
You’re mistaken, that’s their intended purpose! Ventless propane heaters are designed with ODS sensors for safety measures.
Kevin allagher, manufacturers of ventless propane heaters even warn about their limitations. These heaters are not foolproof and may fail when you need them most. While they can be a good supplemental heat source, they are not ideal for primary heating or in sleeping areas.
Ood thing you consulted ‘Mr. oogle’! It’s common for older homes to have gas space heaters. Nowadays, it’s essential to have fire, smoke, and CO2 detectors in homes.
Kevin allagher didn’t need to search online, it’s just common sense. Why take unnecessary risks when there are better, slightly more expensive options available? Proper ventilation is key.
Kevin allagher should carefully read the fine print. Ventless propane heaters require an open window to operate safely and are prohibited in many areas.
I strongly recommend avoiding a ventless propane heater in such a small space. Combustion gas and excess water vapor will be trapped inside with the occupants. Consider swapping out the window for one that can open for better ventilation.
It looks like you’re using propane for heating, so make sure you’re careful with it. Propane burns oxygen and can leave exhaust fumes in the air you breathe, so be mindful of that. And what was the question again? 😅🤣🤣🤣🤣. You definitely don’t want to experience the effects of CO2 poisoning from prolonged exposure. If it’s not enough to kill you, you’ll still feel pretty awful.
If you’re insulating against your roof deck, then the whole space is conditioned so you wouldn’t need to vent the roof. But if there’s a gap between the roof deck and insulation, you’d need soffit/gable end venting to a high spot in the roof. And when it comes to propane, it’s good to have venting or air circulation even if it’s technically ventless. Mini splits are great for air circulation, conditioning, and humidity control in tiny homes.
A mini split unit is definitely the way to go. It might be a bit pricey, but at the very least, consider getting a bathroom exhaust fan that can be set on a timer or sensor to help remove indoor air. Ventless gas systems can create excessive moisture, which can cause issues like condensation, rot, and mold.
Have you thought about where to put the heater? Instead of the roof, you could consider running the vent out of a side wall, depending on local code regulations. Another idea for a small space could be using radiant heaters on the roof facing downwards or angled with the roof.
Make sure to have soffit and ridge vents installed with the fiberglass insulation to prevent condensation, moisture, mold, and rot in the ceiling. Be sure to run baffles from the soffit to the ridge. And remember, avoid ventless propane setups for safety reasons.
I’d suggest getting a vent with a fan and a timer from Amazon. You can set it to turn on every few hours and run for 30 minutes, or consider getting one with a humidity sensor.