Even if you don’t use the garage much for your projects, there is a need to maintain a low basic temp for moisture buildup prevention and keeping your belongings safe from ruin. In colder climates, the garage needs to be heated during the winter at least. If you use the garage all the time or have a workshop, selecting the correct heater type is essential.
The best garage heater for you depends on many factors like climate zone, building type, temperature rise, insulation level, and total cubic feet of the garage. Also, you have to factor in the cost of the electricity or gas in your area and possible year-round running cost. Consider also noise and safety of the heater.
Read all about garage heaters and how they work, and what you should know in this article before choosing a suitable heater. This article covers more additional info, tables, and both pieces work together so you can make the best decision ideal for your needs.
This article covers the absolutely best garage heaters with different power types. Go over more about heater safety and additional features you should look out for. And what size heater you should pick for your garage.
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Our Top Pick Garage Heaters
Best Radiant Garage Heater Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Infrared Heater (at Amazon)
Best Electric Heater Comfort Zone 3,000 / 4,000 / 5,000W (at Amazon)
Best Natural Gas Heater Mr. Heater F260550 Big Maxx MHU50NG (at Amazon)
Best Propane Heater Mr. Heater MH60QFAV 60,000 BTU (at Amazon)
Best Kerosene Heater Sengoku HeatMate HMN-110 (at Amazon)
Best Oil Filled Heater Kismile 1500W Oil-Filled Radiator (at Amazon)
Best Mini Split With Heating and Cooling Commercial Cool Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner with Heat (at Amazon)
What to Look in a Garage Heaters and Things to Consider
Garage Size – It’s essential to know the size of your garage or workshop when selecting a heater. If the unit is not powerful enough for the size of the space, you will be left in the cold. Keep in mind also the actual space you use. So you don’t heat unnecessary or unoccupied areas and waste energy.
Garage Usage – Do you spend long hours in the garage working on your projects or using the space as a workshop. Or do you only need to maintain a low basic temp (45-60 F or 8-15 C) through the winter. Preventing moisture buildup and keeping the car from freezing.
Garage Finish Level – Is your garage insulated with drywall installed. Or is the garage uninsulated and cold and drafty. Read all about garage insulation here and drywalling the garage here
Power Source – Garage heaters work with electricity, natural gas, propane, or kerosene. Electric heaters pull a lot of power and usually require a designated circuit with its own breaker. Some garage heaters need a 240-volt outlet. Consult an electrician to check the wiring is adequate or if a new circuit needs to be installed. Hardwired models need to comply with national and local electric codes.
If you have natural gas service in your area, you can install a natural gas heater. Propane heaters can be installed on propane lines or run by individual tanks. Gas-operated heaters usually require additional fuel lines and separate venting.
Energy Efficiency – Total operating costs. Including the unit price, gas/electricity price, installation, and maintenance costs.
Heat Output – Heat output is measured In BTUs for gas-powered heaters and watts for electric heaters. Gas heaters usually range from 10,000 to 50,000 BTUs or more. A good rule of thumb for electric heaters is that for every 10 watts of output, approximately 1 square foot of space can be heated. So a 100 square foot room will require about a 1,000-watt heater. When estimating the square footage, consider the ceiling height, which is mostly a standard 8-foot ceiling. If the ceiling is higher, go with a more powerful heater.
Sound/Noise Level – How loud the heater is and how often it’s running. This can be an issue, especially in attached garages. Electric heaters are the quietest. If noise is a concern, check out the manufacturer’s specs.
Installation – Portable heaters are easiest to install where needed and only need electricity or fuel. With wall or ceiling-mounted units, you may need to consult professionals to install the required gas or electric lines. Manufacturers usually provide the mounting hardware, but not always. If this is the case, the manufacturer includes installation instructions on properly installing the heater with standard mounting brackets.
Safety – If you produce a lot of wood dust and the garage has other flammable materials, you must consider purchasing a heater with good safety features, such as a separate combustion chamber. Heaters that run on propane or kerosene release carbon monoxide are not suitable for enclosed spaces, and require good ventilation when used.
Is there a lot of traffic like kids or pets that can tip the heater over. Consider all the safety and additional features below.
Garage Heater Safety Features
- Tip-over mechanisms – Portable heaters usually sit on the garage floor and might tip over accidentally. Tip-over safety shuts the heater off automatically if the heater is in the wrong position.
- Overheating Protection – Automatic shutdown in the case of overheating.
- Separate Combustion Chamber – The heater will burn fresh outside air instead of the dust or paint-laden air inside the garage.
- Cool-touch features – Heat guards in the heater’s hottest parts to avoid burning accidents.
- No Flame Protection – For natural gas, propane, and kerosene heaters. If there is no flame to fire up the used fuel, the heater will shut off to avoid gas buildup.
Garage Heater Additional Features
- Extended Cords – For placing the heater in the desired or optimal location.
- Programmable Thermostat – Set a specific temperature that the heater tries to maintain. And only activates when needed.
- A Handle – Important in portable heaters for moving the heater around easily.
- Wheels – This makes the heater easier to move around effortlessly.
- Louvers – With louvers, you can direct the flow of air where needed.
- Oscillation – More common in portable heaters but available in some wall-mounted heaters and work like automatic louvers to change airflow direction and distribute air more evenly around the space.
- WiFi – For controlling the heater through a phone app. Let’s you start the heater before you are home so you can arrive in a warm garage.
- Remote Control – This makes operating the unit more convenient.
Garage Heater Running Costs
The average heater unit price is around $200. Small units start at $25, and large units go over $1000. Price will vary by unit type and used energy source. There are also installation costs to factor in (licensed HVAC and electrician) and gas or electricity price and maintenance if needed.
Electric Heaters – Units cost $100-$500. The initial cost is low, but running the unit costs up to an extra $10-$150 per month based on unit power, usage hours, and electricity costs in your area.
Gas Heaters – Are around $150-$1000. The initial cost is higher, but running the unit is cheaper, usually with natural gas, propane, or kerosene than electricity. With gas heaters, you need ventilation equipment that costs an extra $150-$300. Also, if your area/house does not have gas lines, you need to refill the gas containers.
Gas heaters need yearly maintenance before the heating season to ensure the proper and safe function of the unit. All heater types should be cleaned regularly.
Check your average electricity cost from the EIA (US Energy Information Administration). They record data from all the states.
How Many Watts or BTUs Should the Garage Heater Have?
This depends heavily on your climate, garage insulation level, ceiling height, garage size, and overall total cubic feet of the garage. But there are good general rules for estimating the right heater size. The output of a gas-powered heater is measured in BTUs (British thermal unit) and electric heaters in Watts.
A good rule of thumb for electric heaters is that for every 10 watts of output, approximately 1 square foot of space can be heated. So a 100 square foot room will require around a 1,000-watt heater.
1 sq.ft = 10 W = 34.1 BTU
Since 1 W = 3.41 BTU, you’ll need 34.1 BTU for each square foot.
Here is a table with typical heater wattages, garage sizes, and BTUs. This is a rough estimate based on the above formula, and if you want to get into the math more, check how to calculate BTUs exactly here.
| Garage Size(sq.ft) | Power in Watts | Power in BTUs |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 1,000 | 3,410 |
| 150 (1 car) | 1,500 | 5,115 |
| 300 (1 car) | 3,000 | 10,230 |
| 400 (1.5-2 cars) | 4,000 | 13,640 |
| 500 (2-2.5 cars) | 5,000 | 17,050 |
| 600 (2.5-3 cars) | 6,000 | 20,460 |
| 800 (3-4 cars) | 8,000 | 27,280 |
| 1000 (4+ cars) | 10,000 | 34,100 |
| 1500 | 15,000 | 51,150 |
| 2000 | 20,000 | 68,200 |
Manufacturers usually report on how big space the heater can be used. Garage insulation plays the most significant role if the heater does not have enough power to the intended space. With very good insulation and milder winters, even smaller capacity heaters can be enough. With freezing winters or low insulation levels, you need more power.
But picking the right size or somewhat overpowered heater is beneficial. The heater does not have to work at full capacity and possibly last longer, does not consume so much gas or electricity, has a comfortable temperature when needed, and the space heats up fast. Don’t go overboard, though.
Best Radiant Garage Heaters
Best radiant heaters powered by electricity. These two are great, and you can choose between a portable or wall-mounted model. For smaller insulated spaces.
Heat Storm HS-1500 PHX-WiFi Infrared Heater
The Heat Storm Infrared heater is wall-mounted and Wifi-enabled, so you can control it with a phone app or smart home systems like Alexa or Google Assistant. Features also include a heating schedule and a built-in thermostat to maintain the desired temperature. The heater does not need to be hardwired and can be plugged directly into the outlet. Safety features include overheating protection, a safe-to-touch grill, and a tip-over guard. The unit is easy to install and looks better than most heaters. The heating range is between 40F-99F (4c-37c), so you can maintain a low basic temp in the garage. If heating is not required all the time.
Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Infrared Heater, WiFi Wall Mounted
Pros
- WiFi
- Good phone app
- Wide range of 40F-99F (4c-37c)
- Easy install (comes with template with built-in level)
- Can be installed over the outlet
- The heater looks good on the wall
Cons
- Short power cord (3 feet)
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity, Radiant
- Heating Capacity – 5115 BTU
- Watts – 1,500
- Garage Size – Up to 150 square feet and more depending on the garage insulation level
- Power Grid – 110 / 120V
- Air Flow – Fan, Radiant
- Venting – Does not need
- Weight – 9 pounds
- Size – 4 x 19 x 16 inches
- Mounting – Wall
- Warranty – 1-year manufacturer.
Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater 1500W
Dr. Infrared Portable unit is well suited for small garages or garages that have a good insulation level. This 1,500-watt unit can be set for temperatures ranging from 50F(10c) to 85F(29c) and has a programmable timer for heating the space in advance. The unit has safety features such as automatic shutdown, overheat protection, and tip-over guard.
Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater, 1500-Watt
Pros
- Easy to move around
- Small and portable
- Remote control
- 72-inch cord
- Super quiet
Cons
- For small to medium spaces
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity
- Heating Capacity – 5115 BTU
- Watts – 1,500
- Garage Size – Up to 150 square feet and more depending on the garage insulation level
- Power Grid – 120V / 12.5 Amps
- Air Flow – Fan, Radiant
- Venting – Not Needed
- Weight – 24 Pounds
- Size – 13 x 12.5 x 17 inches
- Mounting – Portable
- Warranty – 3 years warranty.
Best Electric Garage Heaters
Here you can choose from differently sized wattage units that correlate directly to the needed wattage to your garage size. A good rule of thumb for electric heaters is that for every 10 watts of output, approximately 1 square foot of space can be heated. So a 100 square foot room will require around a 1,000-watt heater. These heaters are suitable for bigger spaces. See helpful table at start of the article here.
Dimplex DGWH4031G 4000W
Dimplex DGWH4031G offers a 4000W heating capacity. The unit is reliable and made from heavy gauge steel with an epoxy coating finish providing resistance to corrosion and temperature changes. The unit can be mounted to the ceiling or wall and has an adjustable swivel and pivot for getting the airflow to the optimal location. The unit has overheat protection, a thermostat, and a fan delay for residual heat. The unit comes with a 6-foot cord with a NEMA plug for an outlet. The unit needs a 240V / 20 amp outlet.
Pros
- Can be mounted wall or ceiling
- Durable
- Adjustable swivel and pivot mounting
- Six-foot-long NEMA plug for quick connection.
- Small size
Cons
- No remote control
- Temp control is the backside of the unit
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity
- Heating Capacity – 13,640 BTU
- Watts – 4,000
- Garage Size – 2 cars
- Power Grid – 240V / 20 Amps
- Air Flow – Forced air
- Venting – Does not need
- Weight – 12.1 Pounds
- Size – 7.3 x 10.2 x 14 inches
- Mounting – Wall, Ceiling
- Warranty – 1-year warranty
Comfort Zone 5,000W Fan Forced
Comfort Zone heaters offer solid performance and heat distribution with three heat levels from 3,000 / 4,000, or 5,000W. The unit body is heavy-gauge steel and can withstand variable temperatures. The casing is enclosed for dust buildup prevention, making the unit suitable for workshops. The heater mounts to the ceiling and has many features such as remote control, overheat protection, a 12-hour timer, and a digital thermostat. The mounting angle can be adjusted and louvers too for optimal airflow. The unit must be hardwired to a 240-volt outlet or fitted with a plug-in cord to a 30-Amp outlet.
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Adjustable louvers
- Adjustable mounting angle
- Removable grill for easy cleaning
- Adjustable Wattage
Cons
- Does not come with the needed wire or cable clamp
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity
- Heating Capacity – 10,230 – 17,050 BTU
- Watts – 3,000 / 4,000 / 5,000
- Garage Size – 2-3 car
- Power Grid – 208V / 240V / 30 Amps
- Air Flow – Forced Air
- Venting – Does not need
- Weight – 16 Pounds
- Size – 17.88 x 14 x 14.5 inches
- Mounting – Ceiling, Wall
- Warranty – 1-year warranty
Dr Heater DR966 240v 3000/6000W
Great heater for 2-3 car garages up to 600 square feet. The Dr. Heater DR966 has two power outputs, 3,000W or 6,000W, and requires a 240V outlet. You can also switch between 12.5 or 25 Amps outputs. The unit performs well and is suitable for different-sized spaces. The unit is also portable, or you can permanently mount it in the wall or ceiling.
Dr. Heater DR966 240-volt Hardwired Shop Garage Commercial Heater, 3000-watt/6000-watt, DR966 240V
Pros
- Two different power settings
- Easy to move
- Built-in adjustable thermostat
- Adjustable Louvers
- Rugged construction
- Quiet
Cons
- Needs 240V outlet
- No fine heat tuning for output
- No auto-shutoff feature
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity
- Heating Capacity – 10,230 and up to 20,500 BTU
- Watts – 3000/6000W
- Garage Size – Up to 600 Square Feet. 2-3 cars
- Power Grid – 240V 12.5 and 25 Amps
- Air Flow – Forced Air
- Venting – Does not need
- Weight – 27 Pounds
- Size – 14.5 x 13 x 14.5 inches
- Mounting – Ceiling or Wall (can be mounted horizontal or vertical)
- Warranty – 1 Year parts and labor Warranty.
Comfort Zone CZ260ER 10,000W
Comfort Zone heaters offer solid performance and heat distribution. The heater mounts to the ceiling and has many features such as remote control, overheat protection, a 12-hour timer, and a digital thermostat. The mounting angle can be adjusted and louvers too for optimal airflow. The unit has to be hardwired to a 240-volt outlet. The unit body is heavy-gauge steel and can withstand variable temperatures. The casing is enclosed for dust buildup prevention, making the unit suitable for workshops. The temperature setting can be adjusted between 45°F (7°C) to 95°F (35°C)
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Adjustable louvers
- Comes with adjustable mounting brackets
- Timer and remote control
Cons
- Requires a lot of electricity
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity
- Heating Capacity – 34,100 BTU / 21,311 to 25,589 BTU per hour.
- Watts – 10,000
- Garage Size – Up to 1000 square feet (4 car garage with extra space)
- Power Grid – 208V / 240V / 50-amp
- Air Flow – Forced Air
- Venting – Does not need
- Weight – 43.9 pounds
- Size – 20.7 x 20.3 x 21.3 inches
- Mounting – Ceiling
- Warranty – 1 year
Best Natural Gas Garage Heater
These two are simply the best natural gas garage heaters. Both are meant for more oversized garages, and you can choose from two different BTU ranges that are suitable for your garage size. Both units have long been popular, bestselling, and well-performing units.
Mr. Heater F260550 Big Maxx MHU50NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
Mr. Heater Big Maxx F2605500 is the best medium-duty unit for medium to large garages. The unit operates with natural gas and can generate a vast 50,000 BTUs per hour, and will heat garages up to 1,250 square feet efficiently. The unit needs an electrical outlet and gas source. The unit can operate with propane too. Has vertical and horizontal venting available. The kit for hooking the unit to the gas source must be purchased separately. A top pick for medium to large spaces.
Mr. Heater F260550 Big Maxx MHU50NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
Pros
- Huge heating capacity for very big garages
- Works with propane too (conversion kit in package)
- Has vertical and horizontal venting available
- Natural gas is cheap
- Quality
- Compatible with WiFi/digital thermostat
- 10-year heat exchanger warranty; 3-year parts warranty.
- Easy outside access to thermostat and A/C terminals and gas connection
- Quiet
Cons
- The gas source hook-up kit needs to be purchased separately
- Thermostat sold separately at extra cost
- Ducting for ventilation sold separately
- Requires electrical connection
Product Features
- Power Source – Natural Gas
- Heating Capacity – Up to 50,000 BTU per hour
- Garage Size – Up to 1,250-2000 square Feet
- Power Grid – Needs outlet (115V)
- Air Flow – Forced Air
- Venting – Needs venting
- Weight – 66 Pounds
- Size – 15 x 29 x 26 inches
- Mounting – Ceiling
- Warranty – Limited 3-year warranty on parts and burners and 10-year warranty on any defects in the heat exchanger
Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
Mr. Heater Big Maxx F260560 is the best heavy-duty unit for huge garages. The unit operates with natural gas and can generate a massive 80,000 BTUs per hour, and will heat garages up to 2,000 square feet efficiently. The unit needs an electrical outlet and gas source. The unit can operate with propane too. Has a vertical and horizontal venting available. The kit for hooking the unit to the gas source must be purchased separately. A top pick for large spaces.
Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
Pros
- Massive heating capacity for very big garages
- Works with propane too (conversion kit in package)
- Has vertical and horizontal venting available
- Natural gas is cheap
- Quality
- Compatible with WiFi/digital thermostat
- 10-year heat exchanger warranty; 3-year parts warranty.
- Easy outside access to thermostat and A/C terminals and gas connection
- Quiet
Cons
- The gas source hook-up kit needs to be purchased separately.
- Thermostat sold separately at extra cost
- Ducting for ventilation sold separately
- Requires electrical connection
- Size
Product Features
- Power Source – Natural Gas
- Heating Capacity – 80,000 BTU
- Garage Size – Up to 2,000-3,000 square Feet (four-car garage with workspace etc.)
- Power Grid – Needs Outlet (115V / 120V)
- Air Flow – Forced Air
- Venting – Needs Venting
- Weight – 85 Pounds
- Size – 22 x 30 x 27 inches
- Mounting – Ceiling
- Warranty – Limited 3-year warranty on parts and burners and 10-year warranty on any defects in the heat exchanger
Best Portable Garage Heaters
Portable heaters are handy as you can move them around and take them with you when needed elsewhere.
Best Portable Heaters Powered by Propane
Here you can choose from a suitable BTU range for your garage size. Use this chart as a reference.
Mr Heater F232000 MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU
Long time bestselling Mr. Heater F232000 for indoor and outdoor usage. Great portable heater powered by propane and is easy to carry around for camping trips too. Has many safety features such as a tip-over guard or low oxygen detection. Suitable for small garages. The unit has low and high heat settings. Runs three hours at max BTU setting and six-hour at low setting- Fuel Consumption/Burn Rate (Gal/Hr) at 4000 BTU = 0.044 Gal/Hr, at 9000 BTU = 0.099 Gal/Hr
Pros
- Portable with handle
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Clean burning ability
- Rugged design
- Directly connects 1 Lb propane tank. / 1 lb to 20 lb propane tank adapter sold separately
- Lightweight
- Quiet
Cons
- The heater may shut off when operating at altitudes over 7,000 FT above sea level.
- Limited runtime depending on tank size
Product Features
- Power Source – Propane
- Heating Capacity – 4,000-9,000 BTU
- Garage Size – Up to 225 square feet. 1 car
- Power Grid – Does not need
- Air Flow – Radiant
- Venting – Needs venting(clean burning reduces venting needs.)
- Weight – 9 Pounds
- Size – 7.7 x 13.4 x 15 inches
- Mounting – portable
- Warranty – 1-year limited warranty.
Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 30,000 BTU
This blue flame heater is enough for up to 750 square feet. The unit has an automatic low oxygen shut-off system and comes with a thermostat, legs, and wall mounting hardware. Produces even convection heat supported with an optional fan. Fuel Consumption/Burn Rate (Gal/Hr) – 1.389 lbs/hr. The unit has two different heat settings and electronic ignition. Does not need electricity.
Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater, One Size, White and Black
Pros
- Automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS)
- Thermostat, legs, and wall mounting hardware included
- No electricity required
Cons
- Restricted in Canada and California
- Fan kit sold separately
- Operating this heater at altitudes over 4,500 FT above sea level could cause pilot/ODS to shut down the heater.
Product Features
- Power Source – Propane
- Heating Capacity – 30,000 BTU
- Garage Size – Up to 750 square feet
- Power Grid – Does not need electricity
- Air Flow – Forced air
- Venting – Needs venting
- Weight – 26.8 pounds
- Size – 28 x 10 x 26 inches
- Mounting – Portable or wall
- Warranty – 1 year limited – parts
Heater MH60QFAV Portable Propane Forced-Air Heater 60,000 BTU
Propane heaters are very effective and useful but produce carbon monoxide and must be vented outside. Mr. Heater MH60QFAV is the best portable “torpedo heater” on the market. The unit has long been bestselling, and customers are pleased about it. The maximum power output is 60,000 BTUs and can warm a room up to 1,500 square feet. The unit requires a 115V outlet and a propane tank to operate. It can run up to 14 hours with a 20-pound propane tank. The unit has thermoelectric safety valves, a high-temp limit switch, and a 10-foot hose with a propane tank regulator.
Mr. Heater MH60QFAV 60,000 BTU Portable Propane Forced Air Heater
Pros
- Portable with handle
- Industrial durability
- Massive heating capacity
- Lightweight
- Easy to Ignite
- Quiet / QBT Technology – 50% Quieter than a standard propane heater
- Good runtime
Cons
- Needs venting
Product Features
- Power Source – Propane
- Heating Capacity – 60,000 BTUs
- Garage Size – Up to 1,500 Square Feet
- Power Grid – Needs electricity
- Air Flow – Forced Air
- Venting – Needs Venting
- Weight – 20.2 Pounds
- Size – 15.98 x 8.82 x 13.5 inches
- Mounting – Portable
- Warranty – 1 year
Best Portable Heater Powered by Kerosene
Kerosene heaters require ventilation as they produce carbon monoxide.
Sengoku Heatmate HMN-110 10,000 BTU
Sengoku Heatmate is a small and portable little heater that performs well. Safety features include an auto-off feature, tip-over guard, safety grill, and push-button start. Can run with the large capacity of 1.2 gallon/4.5 liter fuel tank about 14 hours without fuel refill.
Sengoku HeatMate 10,000-BTU Portable Indoor/Outdoor Radiant Kerosene Heater, HMN-110
Pros
- Small
- Portable
- Push-button start
- EZ flame adjuster
- Does not need electricity
- Comes with a fuel gauge and siphon pump
- Wicks readily available
Cons
- Needs venting
Product Features
- Power Source – Kerosene
- Heating Capacity – 10,000 BTUs
- Garage Size – Up to 380 square feet
- Power Grid – Does not need electricity
- Air Flow – Radiant
- Venting – Needs Venting
- Weight – 22.5 Pounds
- Size – 22 x 13 x 20 inches
- Mounting – Portable
- Warranty – 1-year warranty
Best Portable Heater Powered by Electricity
Here you can choose from differently sized wattage units that correlate directly to the needed wattage to your garage size. A good rule of thumb for electric heaters is that for every 10 watts of output, approximately 1 square foot of space can be heated. So a 100 square foot room will require about a 1,000-watt heater.
AEscod Portable Electric 1500w Ceramic Heater
This heater has ceramic heating tech with a high-speed fan and heats spaces efficiently. The heater also has safety features such as overheat protection. Has 2 different heat settings: High Heat (1500W) / Low Heat (750W) / Fan only. Many customers are very happy about it.
Pros
- Adjustable 90-degree tilt
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- Rapid-Heat
Cons
- Could have more safety features
- Short power cord (5ft)
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity
- Heating Capacity – 5115 BTU
- Watts – 3 modes (1500W / 750W / Fan only
- Garage Size – up to 200 square feet /
- Power Grid – 120V / 15 Amps
- Air Flow – Forced air
- Venting – Does not need venting
- Weight – 4.24 lbs
- Size – 7.1 x 6.3 x 8.7 inches
- Mounting – Portable
- Warranty – 1 year
Best Oil Filled Garage Heater
Oil-filled heaters are one of the safest heater types, maintenance-free and inexpensive. Works great as an additional heater with other heater types or in areas with mild winters.
Kismile 1500W Oil Filled Heater
Kismile oil-filled radiator is maintenance-free (there is no need to add oil) Has built-in cord storage, wheels, and thermostat with three modes. 600W / 900W and 1500W. The unit also has safety features like a tip-over guard and overheat protection. Easy to use and move around the house.
Pros
- Portable and easy to move
- Maintenance-free
- Heats up quick
- Super quiet
Cons
- Only works as an additional heater or in areas with mild winter temps
- No built-in timer (can be used with correct wattage smart plug if you need timer)
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity
- Heating Capacity – 5115 BTU
- Watts – 600W / 900W / 1,500W
- Garage Size – Up to 150 square feet
- Power Grid – 120V
- Venting – Does not need
- Weight – 18.41 pounds
- Size – 13.9″ X 9.4″ x 24.6″
- Mounting – Portable
- Warranty – 1 Year
Best Mini Split With Heating and Cooling
If you spend a lot of time in the garage year-round, consider mini-split systems. These units offer heating and cooling in the same package with low running costs. Mini-split systems are dependable and usually, work around 10-15 years with almost no maintenance other than cleaning required. Installation is easy when the system has pre-charged refrigerant lines. You only need to make a hole in the wall for the lines. No ducts or venting are required. Some units have plugs for an outlet, while others need to be hardwired.
Commercial Cool Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner with Heat
Commercial Cool Mini Split can be installed DIY and has pre-charged refrigerant lines, so you do not need to be a licensed HVAC professional. Using licensed installed is recommended, though, for the best durability and lifetime of the unit. Mini-split systems are ideal if you spend long days in the garage. They are also suitable for workshops, though they include fans and will stir the particles in the air. You can set the temperature between 60 – 90 Fahrenheit or 15 – 32 C. There is also only a fan mode and dehumidify modes available. A dehumidifier can extract up to 67 pints of water in 24 hours. The unit offers heating and cooling up to 1,000 square feet and has an extended warranty, installation manual, and excellent customer support. Ideal for any room in the house or where ductwork won’t fit.
Pros
- Low operating cost
- Provides heating and cooling
- Energy efficient
- Easy to clean, washable filter
- Can run 24/7, providing stable heating or cooling
- Pre-charged, no HVAC installer required
- Full Installation Accessories Kit
- 4-way airflow, multi-directional louvers
- Remote control with time and sleep mode
- Installation manual and customer support
- Quiet
Cons
- High initial cost
- Won’t heat quickly bigger spaces
- Building permits may be required.
- A licensed electrician may be necessary.
- Installation must be in accordance with NEC and other local codes.
Product Features
- Power Source – Electricity, Refrigerant absorbs heat outside and warms the garage in winter. The unit pumps heat to the outside during summer, cooling the garage. The process just reverses.
- Heating Capacity – 19,000 BTU/h with 9 HSPF efficiency
- Cooling Capacity – 18,000 BTU/h with 17 SEER efficiency
- Garage Size – Up to 1,000 square feet
- Power Grid – 220V
- Venting – Does not need
- Weight – 103.7 Pounds
- Size – 35.4 x 12.2 x 8.9 inches
- Mounting – Wall
- Warranty – 2 years parts and 5 years on compressor
FAQ About Garage Heaters
What Size of Heater Do I Need for a 2-Car Garage?
This depends entirely on where you live. Areas with harsh freezing winters require more heat production from the unit than areas with mild winters. Calculate the cubic feet of the garage by multiplying the garage’s length, width, and height.
How Many Btus Do I Need to Heat My Garage?
Around 30-60 BTUs per square foot. This depends on the garage insulation level and your climate zone. Building type, location, temperature rise, material, insulation, and total cubic feet are essential factors for calculating the required BTU. See here how to calculate BTUs.
| Garage Size(sq.ft) | Power in Watts | Power in BTUs |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 1,000 | 3,410 |
| 150 (1 car) | 1,500 | 5,115 |
| 300 (1 car) | 3,000 | 10,230 |
| 400 (1.5-2 cars) | 4,000 | 13,640 |
| 500 (2-2.5 cars) | 5,000 | 17,050 |
| 600 (2.5-3 cars) | 6,000 | 20,460 |
| 800 (3-4 cars) | 8,000 | 27,280 |
| 1000 (4+ cars) | 10,000 | 34,100 |
| 1500 | 15,000 | 51,150 |
| 2000 | 20,000 | 68,200 |
Is 1,500 Watt Heater Enough to Heat a Garage?
This depends entirely on the size of the garage. A good rule of thumb for electric heaters is that for every 10 watts of output, approximately 1 square foot of space can be heated. So a 100 square foot room will require a 1,000-watt heater. So for a 150 square smaller garage, a 1,500-watt heater should be adequate. The garage insulation plays a significant role in all heater types.
Btus Compared to Other Fuel Types
From United States Department of Energy
- One cubic foot of natural gas = 1,037 BTU
- One pound liquified natural gas = 21,040 BTU
- One gallon of liquified natural gas = 82,000 BTU
- One pound of propane = 21,591 BTU
- One gallon propane = 91,452 BTU
- One gallon of kerosene = 131,890 BTU
- One kilowatt-hour of electricity = 3,412 BTU
- One gallon of diesel fuel or home heating oil = 137,381 BTU
- One 40-pound bag of wood pellets = 320,000 BTU
- One cord of firewood = 20,000,000 BTU
What Is the Most Energy Efficient Garage Heater?
This depends on the cost of electricity or different gas types in your area. Electric infrared heaters have technically 100% efficiency, but electricity usually costs more than natural gas or propane. Infrared heaters do not waste anything, and if you want to use every watt of energy for heating, they might be the best option.
Where Should Heater Be Placed in a Garage?
Mounted heaters should be installed in the coldest corner and direct the airflow toward the center of the garage or the garage door. Ensure that ceiling-mounted and wall-mounted heaters have adequate safety distance from the walls, usually at least 24 inches. Portable heaters can be placed where needed. Always consult the manufacturer’s installation instructions to ensure every safety precaution is accounted for.
Will Heaters Work in an Uninsulated Garage?
You will waste a lot of money with uninsulated garages, and the heaters will consume much more electricity or gas. If you have cold winters insulating the garage is a must and will save you a lot of money in the long run. If you live in a warmer region where temperatures won’t drop too low, and you need to heat the garage only sometimes, you can get away with an uninsulated garage.
Read all about insulating your garage here.
Can a Garage Heater Be Too Big?
If the heater is too big, the garage will often overheat even if the unit has a temperature maintaining thermostat. Forcing you to open the door to release heat. So choosing the optimal size of the heater is essential. Usually, garage heaters are not big enough in freezing conditions if the garage is poorly or not at all insulated. Insulation helps even smaller heaters to maintain temperature.
What Type of Heater Is Best for a Garage?
This depends on the garage size and if some types of gas like natural or propane is available in your area. Large garages benefit gas heaters because of the high heating capacity of the units. Electric garage heaters are safer and more suitable for small or medium garages.
Propane, kerosene, and natural gas heaters emit deadly carbon monoxide and require adequate ventilation, and should not never be used in enclosed spaces without ventilation.
Combustion heaters produce carbon monoxide. They should never be used without opening your garage door several inches and/or opening windows to create ventilation. They should also never be used inside your home. Even in well-ventilated garages, you should install a carbon monoxide detector(paid link) for added safety.
Always use a qualified and licensed HVAC installer when dealing with permanent natural gas or propane lines in your house.
Always use qualified and licensed electrician services when you need additional or more powerful outlets or need to change the wiring in the garage. Some electric heaters draw much power, and old wiring may not be up to the task.
