When winter hits, reliable and efficient heat is essential. At Canadian Off Grid, our customers trust Martin propane and natural gas wall heaters for their safety, durability, and simplicity. With models ranging from 8,000 BTU to 20,000 BTU, you can select the ideal unit for your home or cabin, providing peace of mind throughout the season.
Propane vs. Natural Gas: Which One Should You Choose?
Both propane and natural gas versions of Martin heaters perform well, but the best choice depends on your setup.
Propane (LP Gas)
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Perfect for off-grid or rural areas without natural gas lines.
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Burns hotter per cubic foot, which can make it more efficient for smaller, sealed spaces.
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Stored in tanks, giving you flexibility on where you install.
Natural Gas
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Ideal if your property is already hooked up to municipal gas service.
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More convenient since you don’t need to refill tanks.
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Generally a bit more affordable per unit of energy than propane.
At Canadian Off Grid, most of our rural Ontario customers choose propane models because they’re easy to set up in cabins, cottages, and off-grid homes. But if you’re connected to natural gas, the Martin natural gas models are just as efficient and reliable.
Which Martin Heater Model Fits Your Space?
|
Model |
Fuel Options |
Max BTU/hr Input |
Thermal Output |
Recommended Sq. Ft. Coverage* |
Glass Front Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MDV8 |
Propane (P) / Natural Gas (N) |
8,000 |
6,400 BTU/hr |
Up to 194 sq. ft. |
No |
|
MDV12 |
Propane (P, VP) / Natural Gas (N, VN) |
11,000 |
8,800 BTU/hr |
Up to 323 sq. ft |
Yes (glass front option) |
|
MDV20 |
Propane (P, VP) / Natural Gas (N, VN) |
20,000 |
16,000 BTU/hr |
Up to 583 sq. ft |
Yes (glass front option) |
*Square footage ranges are estimates. Factors like insulation, ceiling height, and how drafty your space is will affect performance .
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The MDV8 is great for small cabins, bunkies, or compact offices.
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The MDV12 is a sweet spot for medium-sized living rooms or workshops.
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The MDV20 is the workhorse; a solid option for larger open spaces.
What You’ll Need for Installation
Installing a Martin wall heater is straightforward but must be done by a qualified gas technician. Here’s what’s required:
Clearances to combustibles:
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Sides: 6 inches
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Top: 24 inches
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Bottom (from floor): 7 inches
Ventilation: Each model comes with a vent kit. The vent should slope slightly downward to the outside to prevent rainwater from getting in.
Gas supply: Use black iron or approved steel pipe, minimum ½” diameter. A sediment trap must be installed to keep moisture and debris out of the heater.
Carbon monoxide detectors: Required by code in Canada; place one on the same floor as the heater and additional detectors on other levels of your home.
Pro tip: Your wall thickness needs to be between 4½ inches and 12⅝ inches to install the vent kit properly.
How to Ignite Your Martin Heater
All Martin MDV units come with a piezo ignition system, so you won’t need matches. Here’s the basic process:
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Turn the gas control knob to the OFF position.
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Press the knob in and rotate to PILOT.
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Hold the knob down while pressing the ignition button until the pilot lights.
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Keep holding for 10 seconds, then release.
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If the pilot goes out, repeat the steps.
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Once the pilot stays lit, turn the knob to your desired temperature (between LOW and HIGH).
It’s that simple, and once the pilot’s lit, the heater’s ready to keep you warm.
Safety and Maintenance Notes
Martin heaters are built for durability, but a little maintenance goes a long way.
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Have a professional inspect once a year before the heating season.
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Keep the front grill and vent area free from dust and debris.
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Never block the air inlet or outlet.
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If you smell gas, shut everything down immediately and call your gas supplier or fire department.
Real World Installations
We’ve installed several Martin heaters inside Highland Outbuildings, and the results speak for themselves. The compact design tucks neatly against the wall, while the efficient vent system makes them safe and reliable. Paired with propane storage, they’re a perfect match for seasonal cabins, workshops, or full-time off-grid living.
When you’re battling Canadian winters, a reliable heat source is peace of mind. At Canadian Off Grid, we’re proud to carry Martin propane and natural gas wall heaters in the MDV8, MDV12, and MDV20 models.
Whether you’re heating a cabin, workshop, or home, there’s a model that fits your space and budget. With simple ignition, efficient operation, and dependable Canadian-quality design, you’ll wonder why you didn’t get one sooner.
Ready to choose your Martin wall heater? Contact Canadian Off Grid today to order your unit and get expert advice on installation.
FAQs
Q: Can I install a Martin wall heater myself?
A: No, installation must be done by a licensed gas technician to ensure safety and compliance with Canadian codes.
Q: Do these heaters need electricity?
A: No, they’re designed to work without electricity; perfect for off-grid living.
Q: How often do I need to service my heater?
A: At least once a year, ideally before the start of heating season.
Q: Can I use the MDV8 to heat a whole cabin?
A: If it’s under 200 sq. ft. with good insulation, yes. Otherwise, consider the MDV12 or MDV20.