The top picks below are designed to supply tempered, heated make-up air for commercial kitchens, industrial spaces, or any area needing controlled ventilation. These units are best for facilities that require steady air changes with temperature-controlled supply. Choose this list if you want reliable heating, durable construction, and clear installation options for both indoor and outdoor use.
| Product | Type | CFM | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Direct Gas Fired Heated Make Up Air Unit – 1200 CFM | Direct Fired | 1200 | Small to mid-size spaces needing compact power |
| Direct Gas-Fired Heater, ETL Listed, 2000 CFM | Direct Fired | 2000 | Moderate to high air changes with tempered air |
| Stainless Steel Commercial Hood System with Heated MUA | Integrated Hood with MUA | ~2475 (exhaust) / MUA varies | Commercial kitchens needing dual exhaust and tempered supply |
| Portable Make-Up Air Unit Heater | Portable MUA Heater | Varies | Temporary or flexible installations |
| Captive Aire Make Up Air Fan Blower Assembly Kit | Blower Assembly | 0-4000 | Custom MUA ducted systems and upgrades |
Compact Direct Gas Fired Heated Make Up Air Unit – 1200 CFM
The F76 compact Direct Fired Unit handles up to 70,000 BTUs and weighs about 345 pounds. It includes a supply fan rated at 1200 CFM @ 0.500″ wc ESP and runs at 1866 RPM. Features include a 1.500 HP motor, 115V single-phase power, and a 70488 BTU output with a 55 degree temperature rise and 40-90 degree discharge temperature control. A motorized back draft damper is included. This unit is best for small to mid-sized spaces where a small, efficient heater is demanded without a large footprint.
Who it’s best for: facilities needing a compact, budget-friendly direct-fired heated solution with solid airflow. Why selected: its balance of moderate CFM, heating capacity, and compact form makes it a strong pick for tighter mechanical rooms or spaces with limited clearance.
Limitations: data notes a 70,000 BTU output and 1200 CFM at a given ESP, but exact efficiency and installation details should be confirmed for your duct layout and local code requirements.
Portable Make-Up Air Unit Heater
This is a portable make-up air unit heater designed for flexible installation. It serves as a portable solution to provide tempered air where fixed installations are not possible or practical. The unit is best for temporary or mobile heating of make-up air in service corridors, small kitchens, or pop-up environments.
Who it’s best for: operators needing a flexible, temporary heating option without a fixed installation. Why selected: portability and ease of relocation make it a clear choice for temporary projects or seasonal shifts in airflow requirements.
Caution: portability may limit long-term integration with building systems and ducted distributions; verify duct connections and power availability before deployment.
Direct Gas-Fired Heater, ETL Listed, 2000 CFM
This unit is designed to deliver tempered make-up air for installations requiring frequent air changes. It supports natural and propane gas options and is suitable for indoor or outdoor installation. Supply fan is rated at 2000 CFM @ 0.500″ wc ESP, operating at 1074 RPM. The system uses a 1.500 HP, 3-phase motor and is built with heavy-duty galvanized steel housing. A forward-curved blower wheel, vibration isolation, and adjustable motor pulley are included for durability and smoother operation.
Who it’s best for: medium-to-large spaces needing consistent tempered air with robust airflow. Why selected: high CFM, tempered air capability, and outdoor-friendly construction make it a strong fit for kitchens or industrial spaces with higher air change demands.
Caution: installation requires proper electrical and gas supply, plus adherence to local fuel and ventilation codes.
Stainless Steel Commercial Hood System with Heated MUA
ETL and NSF stainless steel hood system includes an exhaust hood, rooftop direct-drive exhaust fan, heated make-up air unit, and roof curbs. Hood construction features 430 stainless steel where exposed and a 48″ depth for effective capture at lower airflow volumes. The system supports a 600-degree hood rating for compatibility with heavy-duty cooking equipment, with baffle hood filters and high-temperature lighting. Exhaust handles around 2475 CFM, with the fan at 978 RPM and a 1.000 HP, 1-phase motor. This is designed for robust commercial kitchens needing integrated kitchen exhaust and tempered make-up air.
Who it’s best for: large commercial kitchens that require an integrated, durable hood system combined with a heated make-up air supply. Why selected: the full package reduces integration effort and supports high-capacity exhaust and tempered inflow in one package.
Caution: the system is substantial in size and weight; ensure structural support and rooftop clearance are adequate for installation and maintenance access.
Captive Aire Make Up Air Fan Blower Assembly Kit
The G10 blower with a motor mounting plate and hardware provides a ±0-4000 CFM range, with a 2500 max RPM and permanently lubricated ball bearings. The galvanized finish and 3/4″ x 19″ shaft enable multiple discharge positions via base feet mounting. This kit is best for upgrading or configuring custom make-up air ducted systems where a reliable blower is essential.
Who it’s best for: contractors or facilities upgrading a custom MUA system requiring a robust blower assembly. Why selected: versatility in discharge configurations and a broad CFM range support a wide range of duct layouts.
Caution: this is a blower assembly, not a complete unit; proper integration with heating, controls, and ductwork is required for a functional MUA system.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a heated make-up air unit:
- Airflow needs: match CFM to the space size, occupancy, and exhaust rate to maintain balanced pressure and comfort.
- Heating method: direct-fired units heat incoming air quickly; consider fuel availability, venting, and fuel safety requirements.
- Installation site: indoor vs. outdoor, duct layout, and space for equipment maintenance drive selection.
- Durability and materials: look for stainless steel or galvanized steel housing for longevity in harsh environments.
- Controls and safety: temperature rise control, damper integration, and safety disconnects should be compatible with existing building management systems.
- Noise and vibration: check blower wheel type, mounting options, and vibration isolation to minimize sound.
- Maintenance needs: consider filter access, fan serviceability, and the ease of cleaning for long-term operation.
- Code compliance: ensure ETL/UL listings and local code compatibility for gas, venting, and electrical connections.
FAQ
- What is heated make-up air? It is air brought into a space with controlled temperature, ensuring comfort and correct pressurization during ventilation.
- Do these units require professional installation? Yes, proper electrical, gas, and ductwork connections are essential for safe operation and code compliance.
- Is portable MUA suitable for kitchens? Portable units offer flexibility for temporary setups or seasonal changes but may be less integrated than fixed systems.
- What should I consider for outdoor installation? Weather-resistant housings, corrosion-resistant materials, and appropriate venting are important.
- Can I mix different MUA components? Some systems integrate hood, exhaust, and MUA in a single package; for mixed setups, ensure compatibility of all components and controls.
- What maintenance is typical? Regular inspection of filters, dampers, and blower bearings; schedule service according to usage and environment.