When the mercury drops and the winter weather sets in, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that your garage is off-limits until the warmer months return. But with the right heating solution, you can stay cozy and focused on your projects without letting the cold get in the way. Garage heaters are a quick and effective way to banish the chill and create a warm, inviting space that’s perfect for tinkering with your car or working on a new DIY project.
Whether you’re dealing with icy rain, crisp snow, or just a general nip in the air, there’s no reason why your garage has to be a winter-only zone. With a garage heater, you can achieve warmth and comfort in mere minutes, giving you the freedom to work on your projects without letting the cold dictate your schedule.
The 6 Best Garage Heaters
When it comes to choosing the right garage heater, several options are available on the market. Among these, Mr. Heater Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater is a popular choice, offering a reliable and efficient way to warm up your garage space. Another option is COSTWAY Propane Heater, which provides a similar functionality. For those looking for a more heavy-duty solution, Modine Natural Gas Hot Dawg Garage Heater stands out as our top pick.
Heatstar By Enerco Overhead Garage Heater is another option that deserves consideration, while Fahrenheat Electric Garage Heater and Dr. Heater Infrared Garage Shop Heater provide alternative solutions.
Our Top Pick for the Best Garage Heater
When it comes to selecting the best garage heater for your needs, our top recommendation is the Modine Natural Gas Hot Dawg Garage Heater. This economical option provides a massive amount of superheated air and is powered by clean natural gas, making it an eco-friendly choice that can save you money in the long run. The Modine Hot Dawg is also a quiet operator and can be installed on the wall or ceiling.
If you prefer a professional installation, Modine offers a competitive pricing option for professional electricians. Once installed, you’ll enjoy its benefits immediately – whether the storm rages outside and the winds howl, you’ll be cozy and warm in your garage or workshop. When choosing a garage heater, there are three key factors to consider: size, power source, and capacity. Firstly, you need to think about the size of your garage or workspace and where you will place the heater.
Will it be small, medium, or large? Do you want to install it on the wall, ceiling, or use a portable free-standing model that can be moved around the room or placed on a table? Secondly, consider the power source: what type of electricity do you have available and how does the heater generate its warmth – through radiant/infrared-red heat or fan-forced air? Finally, think about the capacity: how much wattage or BTUs does the heater produce?
By taking these factors into account, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect garage heater for your needs.
Choosing the Best Garage Heater for you
Size of Your Garage
When selecting a garage heater for your small or large space, it’s crucial to consider the power output to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency. A heater that’s too powerful can make the area too hot and stuffy, while one that’s too weak will struggle to heat the entire space effectively. In terms of portability, some heaters are designed to be free-standing, allowing you to easily move them around to wherever the heat is needed most.
This feature is particularly useful in garages with multiple workstations or areas where you need a constant source of warmth. Wall-mounted heaters are also an excellent option for space-conscious garages, but it’s essential to consider the type of heating they generate. Fan-forced and radiant heaters differ significantly in terms of their power output and coverage area.
If your garage has a high ceiling (around 6-7 feet), you may need to opt for a more powerful or fan-forced heater to ensure effective heating. Furthermore, don’t forget to factor in the ventilation ducts in the wall when choosing your garage heater. These can significantly impact the room’s ability to retain heat and maintain a comfortable temperature.
Power Source: Propane, Natural Gas or Electric
Garage heaters can be powered by three primary sources: propane, natural gas, and electricity. Gas-powered garage heaters are often a cost-effective option, capable of heating a room quickly and efficiently. However, they do require careful use in enclosed spaces, as they can pose safety risks. Additionally, the gas bottle must be properly maintained to ensure continued operation.
Natural gas garage heaters offer an efficient and clean source of energy, but installation costs may be initially high. This is offset by long-term operating cost savings. There are two main types of natural gas heaters: fan-forced models that blow warm air and infrared tube heaters that radiate heat. Both can burn natural gas or LP gas, but it’s crucial to install a venting system to eliminate toxic fumes left behind.
Electric garage heaters are another popular option, providing consistent super-heated air or radiant/infrared heat. While they may not be ideal for large areas, they excel in smaller spaces. Most models feature automatic turn-off switches and multiple heat settings, allowing for precise control.
Radiant/Infrared Garage Heaters
Radiant or infrared garage heaters offer a unique advantage by providing localized heating solutions that can quickly warm up small spaces. Their power allows for efficient heat distribution, making them ideal for targeting specific areas. Some models are designed as freestanding units, offering portability and flexibility to move around as needed. Others can be mounted on walls, providing an unobtrusive way to maintain a cozy temperature.
However, it’s worth noting that wall-mounted infrared heaters may require users to stay relatively close by to fully experience their heating capabilities.
Fan-forced Garage Heaters
A powerful fan-forced air heater is ideal for large garages as it can maintain a warm temperature for an extended period, even in extreme cold. The fan draws in the chilly air, warms it up with its strong heating element, and then circulates the hot air into the room. This type of heater excels at producing copious amounts of heat, quickly warming a space to a cozy temperature.
While effective for larger areas, using a fan-forced garage heater in a smaller space can lead to an unpleasant phenomenon – it sucks out the air and makes the room feel stuffy. Fortunately, some models offer the flexibility to disable the heating function while keeping the fan running, allowing you to clear the air without introducing heat.
Power Output Level
When selecting a garage heater, it’s crucial to consider the level of warmth required for your space. For smaller garages or workshops measuring up to 250 feet, a heater capable of generating 4,000-9,000 BTUs should suffice. Larger spaces, such as those spanning 500-600 feet, necessitate heaters that can produce 25,000 BTUs or more.
For extremely large areas exceeding 1,000 feet in size, heaters with the ability to generate 30,000-60,000 BTUs will provide a comfortable and cozy environment for working or relaxing. Similarly, electric garage heaters designed for smaller spaces, typically measuring up to 600 feet, can be effective when rated at 2,500-5,000 watts.
Safety Features
When it comes to using heating appliances in a work environment, safety should be at the forefront of your considerations. One key feature to look out for is the incorporation of cool-touch or wire guard technologies in radiant heaters. These innovations protect users from accidental contact with extremely hot surfaces. Additionally, many heating units are designed with overheating protection systems, which automatically shut off the appliance if it reaches a potentially damaging temperature.
Some gas-powered heaters take this feature a step further by incorporating integrated safety sensors that detect flame-outs or overheating and immediately shut down the heater to prevent damage. Finally, high-quality heaters often include tip-over switches or sensors that can detect when the unit has been knocked over, promptly shutting off the heat source to minimize potential risks.
Settings
When selecting a fan-forced heater for your workspace, consider the importance of customizable heating settings. Look for devices that offer adjustable temperature levels, allowing you to tailor the warmth to suit the specific conditions within your workspace. This might involve setting the thermostat to low for crisp spring mornings or high for bitterly cold winter days or nights.
In addition to heat settings, some fan-forced heaters come equipped with adjustable louvers, granting you control over where the heat is directed. For instance, you can target specific areas of your workspace that require extra warmth. When it comes to electric garage heaters, the length of the power cord is a crucial consideration. A standard 6-foot cord offers ample portability, enabling you to easily move the heater around your garage as needed.
However, some propane gas heaters provide an extended 10-foot hose, providing greater flexibility when connecting the heater to the propane tank or bottle. Finally, a carrying handle can be a vital feature for ensuring safe and easy relocation of your heater. This not only prevents accidental burns but also allows you to reposition the device with ease, even while it’s generating heat.
6 Best Garage Heaters – Reviews
Mr. Heater Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater
For small garages, the Mr. Heater Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater offers an efficient way to quickly warm up the space. This compact heater provides a range of 4,000-9,000 BTUs of comfortable radiant heat using a single 1lb propane gas cylinder. To maximize its warmth, place it near your feet or on a table, as the fold-down handle makes it easy to move around and folds flat for storage when not in use.
Safety features include an integrated auto-shutoff that turns off the heater if tipped over or if oxygen levels drop too low or the pilot light goes out. The 2 heat settings (low and high) allow for precise temperature control, while the swivel regulator streamlines LP cylinder and hose installation. The large porcelain-coated heating surface directs radiant heat over a significant area, protected by a high-temperature wire guard.
The pros of this heater include excellent value for money, ideal use in small rooms, quick heating, compactness, and two adjustable heat settings. However, it may not be suitable for larger garages.
COSTWAY Propane Heater
If you’re tired of shivering in your garage or workshop, the COSTWAY Propane Heater is here to save the day. Its powerful motor can produce up to 60,000 BTUs of heat, making it perfect for large spaces with high ceilings. The heater’s variable dial control allows you to adjust the temperature to suit your needs, and its wide opening ensures that warm air is distributed evenly throughout the area. Plus, the adjustable heating angle lets you direct the heat exactly where you want it.
The COSTWAY Propane Heater also boasts several safety features, including automatic ignition and overheating protection. This means you can enjoy a safe and cozy space without worrying about accidents or malfunctions. The heater’s compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to move around, and its carrying handle makes it a breeze to transport. Additionally, the unit comes with an extra-long 10-foot hose that can be connected to either a 20 or 40-pound propane gas tank.
In terms of pros, this heater is an excellent value for the price, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to warm up their garage or workshop. It’s also very quiet, producing only 63 dB of noise. Some minor drawbacks include the need to hold down the ignition for a bit longer than 30 seconds and the requirement for a power source (though you can easily use an extension cord if needed).
Modine Natural Gas Hot Dawg Garage Heater
Modine’s expertise in crafting high-quality heaters dates back to 1916, and its latest offering, the Natural Gas Hot Dawg Garage Heater, is a testament to this dedication. This compact powerhouse can generate an impressive 45,000 BTUs of heat, effectively warming up areas of up to 1000 square feet within minutes. Suitable for both residential and commercial settings, the Hot Dawg ensures that freezing temperatures won’t disrupt your workspace during winter or chilly spring mornings.
Its neutral color, whisper-quiet operation, and 85% energy efficiency make it a valuable addition to any garage or workshop. The Modine heater also offers versatility, allowing you to choose between natural gas or electric power and install it on the wall, ceiling, or as an electric heater. For added convenience, the Hot Dawg features tube ventilation attachments and can be hooked up to a thermostat for temperature control.
Although installation is relatively straightforward, taking only 1-2 hours, Modine also offers expert installation services from licensed electricians. The pros of this heater include its high quality, industrial strength, and ability to heat large areas efficiently. However, it may not be the most cost-effective option for small spaces and requires proper ventilation.
Heatstar By Enerco Overhead Garage Heater
The Heatstar By Enerco Overhead Garage Heater is an excellent choice for those with a 2-car garage or workshop measuring around 500-600 square feet. This heater provides radiant heat at a rate of 25,000 BTUs per hour, keeping you warm and comfortable throughout the coldest months. As it runs on natural gas, this eco-friendly option boasts 99.9% fuel efficiency, allowing you to save on power bills while enjoying clean and safe heating.
Installation is straightforward – simply hook up the included thermostat with the required wiring (not included), mount the heater to the wall, and set up the natural gas connection. The adjustable thermostat enables you to control the warmth level, making it suitable for buildings with high ceilings up to 7 or 8 feet. The durable, non-corrosive construction is CSA certified, ensuring a long lifespan.
While the heater comes with a wall-mount bracket and thermostat, wiring is not included; however, Enerco does offer a propane gas-powered option that can be attached to a 40lb propane gas cylinder. This heater offers great value for money, with its cost-effective operation, quiet performance, and excellent customer service.
Fahrenheat Electric Garage Heater
The Fahrenheat Electric Garage Heater may be compact, but it packs a punch. Perfect for small and medium-sized garages, basements, or workshops up to 500-square-feet, this powerful heater can produce up to 5,000 watts of heat. With its built-in ceiling mount bracket, you can effortlessly mount it on the wall or ceiling, adjusting the louvers to direct warmth exactly where you need it most.
However, keep in mind that this unit requires hard-wiring and doesn’t come with settings, so an external thermostat is necessary to control the temperature – especially crucial given its ability to reach scorching temperatures of up to 135°F in a confined space. On the plus side, the Fahrenheat boasts industrial-grade construction, making it a durable addition to any garage or workshop.
In short, this heater offers impressive heat output, adaptability, and a sleek design that won’t take up valuable floor space.
Dr. Heater Infrared Garage Shop Heater
The Dr. Heater Infrared Garage Shop Heater boasts a robust industrial heating element, coupled with a 5600-watt fan that produces an impressive 18,500 BTUs at maximum power. This powerful combination enables it to quickly and effectively heat large garages or workshops up to 600 square feet. The heater’s sturdy bright red steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
A dual-control fan switch, featuring On and Automatic modes, allows for optimal temperature control, while the built-in thermostat can be adjusted from low to high. The result is a continuous warmth range of 45-95°F, eliminating hot and cold spots. The heater’s portability is further enhanced by its convenient handle and heavy-duty 6-foot power cord, making it easy to place on a workbench, cabinet, or floor.
Safety features include finger-proof intake and discharge grills and high-temperature overheating cut-off protection. For residential use, professional installation is recommended, and the heater requires a NEMA #6-30P receptacle for its 3-pronged 6-30R plug. While it has several advantages, including very good quality, fast heating, and quiet operation, there are some drawbacks to consider.
These include the need for professional installation and potential fan malfunction if dust and debris accumulate. It’s also important to unplug the heater after adjusting the thermostat dial to the OFF position.
Our Top Pick for the Best Garage Heater
The Modine Natural Gas Hot Dawg Garage Heater stands out as our top pick for the best garage heater. This economical solution provides a reliable way to heat medium- to large-sized garages, using clean natural gas that saves you money in the long run and offers a generous amount of superheated air. As an eco-friendly option, it’s a quiet operator that can be installed on either walls or ceilings, making it a versatile choice for garage heating.
For added convenience, Modine offers professional installation services at a reasonable price, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of this unit straight away. Whether the storm rages outside and the winds howl, you’ll remain snug and warm in your garage or workshop with the Modine Natural Gas Hot Dawg Garage Heater.
