Best Garage Heaters for a Warm Winter Workshop
A cold garage is hard to work in. Paint will not cure, glue will not set, and your hands go numb after ten minutes at the bench.
A dedicated garage heater fixes that. The right type depends on what power you have. Hardwired electric heaters are clean and quiet, natural gas unit heaters are cheap to run, and portable propane heaters warm a space fast with no install.
We picked proven models from Dr. Infrared, Mr. Heater, and Comfort Zone for one and two car garages and home workshops.
1.Best Electric: Dr. Infrared DR-988
The DR-988 is a 240 volt electric heater sized for garages up to about 600 square feet. It has a built in thermostat and adjustable louvers so you can aim the warm air where you are working.
Electric heat means no fumes and no tank to refill, which makes it a good fit for a garage that doubles as a workshop or gym.
You will need a 240 volt circuit, so plan on an electrician if you do not already have one.
Dr. Infrared Heater DR-988 Garage Heater
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1,000+ reviews
A 240 volt ceiling or wall mount fan forced heater with a thermostat and adjustable louvers for garages and shops.
Shop on Amazon →2.Best Natural Gas: Mr. Heater Big Maxx
If your home has natural gas, the Big Maxx unit heater is one of the most affordable ways to heat a garage for the long haul. It hangs from the ceiling and stays out of the way.
At 50,000 BTU it can warm a two car garage, and a separate thermostat keeps it cycling at the temperature you want.
It needs a gas line and a vent, so professional installation is the safe route.
Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU50NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
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1,000+ reviews
A 50,000 BTU ceiling mount natural gas unit heater for two car garages and workshops.
Shop on Amazon →3.Best Ceiling Mount Value: Comfort Zone CZ220
The Comfort Zone CZ220 is a compact 240 volt heater that mounts on the ceiling, saving floor space in a tight garage.
It comes with a remote and a digital thermostat, so you can warm the space before you head out to work.
It is a good value pick for one car garages and smaller shops.
Comfort Zone CZ220 Ceiling Mount Garage Heater
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1,000+ reviews
A ceiling mount 240 volt fan forced heater with a remote and digital thermostat.
Shop on Amazon →4.Best Portable: Mr. Heater Forced Air Propane Heater
For a garage without a dedicated circuit or gas line, a forced air propane heater warms the space quickly from a standard 20 pound tank.
Mr. Heater's portable models run on variable heat settings and include tip over and overheat protection.
Always crack a door or window for fresh air and keep a carbon monoxide alarm in the garage.
Mr. Heater MH60QFAV Forced Air Propane Heater
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1,000+ reviews
A portable forced air propane heater with variable output for quick heat in garages and job sites.
Shop on Amazon →Tips for Heating a Garage
Insulate the door first. A garage door insulation kit keeps much more of your heat inside.
Size by square footage. Check the heater's rated coverage against your garage size and ceiling height.
Install a CO alarm. Any fuel burning heater needs a carbon monoxide alarm nearby.
Keep clearance. Hold cars, gas cans, and solvents well away from the heater.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What size heater do I need for a two car garage?
Most two car garages need roughly 30,000 to 50,000 BTU from gas, or a 5,000 to 7,500 watt electric heater, depending on insulation and climate.
Is electric or gas cheaper to run?
Natural gas is usually cheaper per hour of heat, while electric heaters are cheaper and easier to install.
Can I use a propane heater in a closed garage?
Only with ventilation. Crack a door or window and use a carbon monoxide alarm.
Do I need an electrician for a 240 volt heater?
Usually yes, unless you already have a 240 volt circuit near where the heater will mount.