The Rinnai EnergySaver EX38DTN is the better gas wall heater overall, rated 4.4 to 2.7. The Rinnai EnergySaver EX38DTN leads on warranty, controls and heat output. The Williams 3003822 Direct Vent Furnace wins on value. The Williams 3003822 Direct Vent Furnace costs $1,352.22 less ($1,290 vs $2,642.22).
For a small home, cabin or open plan space that needs one wall unit as the main heat source with modern thermostat control. Owners in outage prone areas should plan a backup.
Amazon $2,642.22A strong value pick for heating a small home or cabin on natural gas with no power needed. Add the wall thermostat for automatic control.
HVACDirect $1,290Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every direct vent gas wall heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Rinnai EnergySaver EX38DTN | Williams 3003822 Direct Vent Furnace |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.4/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 30% | 61 $68.81 per 1,000 BTU ($2,642.22, 38,400 BTU) | 83 $43 per 1,000 BTU ($1,290, 30,000 BTU) |
| Heat output 15% | 95 38,400 BTU/hr | 67 30,000 BTU/hr |
| Controls 20% | 100 thermostat, blower, electronic ignition | 0 manual control, push button ignition |
| Fuel 5% | 0 natural gas only | 0 natural gas only |
| Warranty 30% | 100 5-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
| Rinnai EnergySaver EX38DTN | Williams 3003822 Direct Vent Furnace | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat | ||
| Venting | Direct vent | Direct vent |
| Heat type | Furnace | Furnace |
| Maximum input | 38,400 BTU/hr | 30,000 BTU/hr |
| Minimum input | 13,200 BTU/hr | - |
| Efficiency | 80% AFUE | 66% AFUE |
| Fuel and controls | ||
| Fuel | Natural gas | Natural gas |
| Thermostat | Yes | No |
| Blower | Yes | No |
| Ignition | Electronic (120 V) | Push button |
| Needs an outlet | Yes | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 86 lb | - |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1 year |
