Garage Bible - what you need to know about garage equipment

Garage Heaters

Best fixed and portable heaters 2024

Fixed and portable heaters both have their pros and cons when it comes to heating a garage. Here’s an overview of each:

Fixed Heaters:

Pros:

  • Efficiency: Fixed heaters, such as baseboard heaters or wall-mounted electric heaters, are generally more efficient for long-term heating solutions. Once installed, they provide consistent warmth without the need for manual adjustments.
  • Safety: Since fixed heaters are permanently installed, there’s typically less risk of accidental tipping or damage compared to portable heaters.
  • Space-saving: Fixed heaters are mounted on walls or installed along baseboards, freeing up floor space in the garage for other uses.

Cons:

  • Installation Cost: Installing fixed heaters may require professional help, especially if electrical work is involved, which can increase the initial cost.
  • Limited Mobility: Once installed, fixed heaters are stationary and cannot be easily moved to different locations within the garage.

Portable Heaters:
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Camco 57351 – Best portable propane space heater for garage

Camco 57351 Olympian Wave-8 8000 BTU LP Gas Catalytic Heater
portable propane space heater

Camco 57351 – most efficient space heater for garage

  • Adjustable from 4200 – 8000 BTU/hr allow it to be used as a secondary heating source
  • Wave heaters operate on low pressure gas, and can be wall mounted or used as a portable unit
  • No electrial drain or battery connection make it the ideal solution for boondocking and dry camping
  • Wave heaters operate silently-no fan or blower noise
  • Equipped with a safety shut-off valve to help prevent accidental non-ignition fuel discharge
  • Heats up to 230 square feet>
  • Product Dimensions 23.4 x 17.6 x 5.7 inches
  • Item Weight 5 pounds

High efficiency propane garage heater

An ideal secondary heating source for your RV, home, or cabin. Camco Olympian series Wave heaters can be used as portable space heaters and in most cases can be wall mounted in the vertical position. Olympian series Wave heaters operate on low pressure HD-5 propane gas only and are equipped with a safety shut-off valve to prevent accidental non-ignition fuel discharge. The built-in automatic electric Piezo sparker will last for 20,000 starts. Also, because it uses safe, clean and efficient propane there is never a drain on your battery.

Camco Olympian Wave heaters utilize safe, clean efficient HD-5 propane gas. Heaters are designed to operate with a manifold pressure (the gas pressure downstream from the appliance controls) of 11 inch WC (0.40 psig). In addition, the supply line must be equipped at the cylinder with a listed low pressure regulator set to deliver the specified pressure. To ensure that you are getting a quality product, each Olympian Wave heater undergoes rigorous safety, performance and quality assurance testing before leaving the factory with the end goal to produce a product that delivers years of trouble-free service.

One Year Limited Warranty

Camco warrants to the Product’s original purchaser or consumer (the ‘Purchaser’) that the Product will be free of defects in manufacture and workmanship for a period of 1 year from the date of consumer purchase or Camco will replace or repair the Product free of charge (the Warranty). This Warranty is non-transferrable. This Warranty does not cover the following:
(a) normal wear and tear;
(b) service or labor charges which are incurred in removing or replacing any Product;
(c) catalytic bed poisoning;
(d) Product damage or failure which occurs as a result of abuse, neglect or misuse in any manner;
(e) damage which occurs to a Product that is misapplied, improperly installed, improperly maintained or altered in any manner by anyone other than Camco.

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Pros:
  • Versatility

    • It is adjustable from 1600 to 3000 BTU per hour. That means you can use this appliance for primary or the secondary heating source, combining with others. Since it focuses on the lower pressure gas, it is much safer for all the occupants. It is an ideal choice for outdoor or indoor. You can wall-mount it at home, or use it as a portable unit. Thanks to the design, you can move it around freely.

  • The safety

    • The appliance comes with the safety shut-off valve which can prevent accidents from happening. As we know, there’ve been many cases regarding the non-ignition fuel discharge. The safety system in this appliance will eliminate the risk.

    The manufacturer committed to the Safe, Clean Efficient Propane model. They will check the quality of their product before releasing it to the market. Each model in the production house will undergo testing before leaving the factory. The goal is to provide the customers with the trouble-free service.

  • A comfortable choice for you

    • You can use this heater for your cabin, warehouse, home, and even your RV. The industrial gas consumption will help you to save a lot for your energy bills. Creating such perfect warm similar to mild solar radiation is effective. It can heat directly to the occupants, floors, walls, as well as other objects.

  • No harmful substances

    • With the current technology, this appliance does not produce harmful carbon monoxide. And since it is propane fuel consumption, there will be no battery drain to worry about. You help yourself, other people, as well as nature when using Camco 57351. It produces warm convective radiant heat without any side effects.

  • No electricity

    • As we know, the electrical bills can come hefty when we use the electrical heater on a daily basis. If you worry about the power supply, the Camco Olympian will help you a lot since it won’t consume a single volt of electricity. Propane is the primary source of power. It is safe, and much more affordable. You will be surprised with the fact on how much money you can save per month.

Cons:
  • It only uses HD-5 propane

    • HD-5 propane is a common type of gas sold in the market. But you need to keep in mind that other stores also use the HD-10. You will need to know if you use the correct gas. Otherwise, it won’t work.

  • There is no thermostatic control

    • It can be a problem for those who used to use thermostatic control.

Mr. Heater F232000 – Best indoor propane heater for home & garage

Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater
propane heater for garage

Mr. Heater F232000 – Best indoor safe propane heater for garage

  • 4,000- to 9,000-BTU radiant heater for spaces up to 225 square feet. Approved for indoor/outdoor use; clean-burning; nearly 100-percent efficient
  • When operating the heater at altitudes over 7,000 FT above sea level the heater may shut off.
  • Auto shut-off if tipped over, if pilot light goes out, or if detects low oxygen levels. Fuel Consumption/Burn Rate (Gal/Hr) at 4000 BTU = 0.044 Gal/Hr, at 9000 BTU = 0.099 Gal/Hr
  • Fold-down handle; swivel-out regulator; connects to propane tank (not included)
  • THE USE OF UN-AUTHORIZED ACCESSORIES/ATTACHMENTS WITH THIS HEATER ARE EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED, MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, AND WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
  • Fold-down handle reduces storage space
  • Four position control with built-in Piezo igniter off and lo/hi heat settings
  • High temperature wire guard
  • Swivel regulator for easy LP cylinder and hose installation
  • Large durable porcelain coated heating surface directs radiant heat over wider area
  • Low-oxygen safety shut-off (ODS) and tip-over safety shut-off
  • Ceramic burner tile mounted with shock absorbing insulation for durability and easy replacement
  • Product Dimensions 7.7 x 13.4 x 15 inches
  • Item Weight 7 pounds
  • Made in US
  • How Much Heat Do You Need?

    • You can calculate the amount of BTUs required by using the following method: Measure the space’s dimension to determine cubic feet. (Length x Width x Height = Cubic Feet). Subtract the outside temperature from the desired inside temp to determine the temperature increase. If you have measured temperature in Fahrenheit, calculate the required BTUs with this formula: (Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase x .133 = Required BTUs) If you have measured temperature in Celsius, calculate the required BTUs with this formula: (Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase x .2394 = Required BTUs).

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Pros:
  • Safe for a family with kids and pets

    • One of the most notable features from this device is the auto shut-off system. The device will automatically shut down if it tips over, or when you pick it up, or when it detects low levels of oxygen. This auto shut-off system is there to make it safer for kids and pets in your home.

  • Low oxygen sensor

    • Besides the auto shut-off feature, it also has the sensor to detect the low oxygen. It is instrumental because the device prevents the buildup of the carbon monoxide. This lethal thing has caused tons of incidents in the properties. With this device, you will be away from the risk.

  • The compactness and portability

    • The size of the heater is adequately smaller than other conventional models. It is a lightweight device which you can quickly move around at home. You can also take it with you on your road trips or camping. It is a common choice for users who travel a lot.

  • User-friendly

    • It does not take a long time until master how the device works for instance. The ease of operation won’t bother you much when preparing the device for your premises. It is very simple to operate.

  • The safe heater

    • As we know, many conventional heaters out there can efficiently produce harmful fumes in the air. While it is true, there is nothing to worry when you carry Mr. Heater F232000 around with you. The app has such edgy tech that will prevent it from happening. The heater comes with the sensor which will shut down the device when the oxygen levels in the room drop. This will prevent carbon monoxide from developing.

  • Long distance radius

    • Don’t get misunderstood with the size and compactness of the device because it can cater to up to 200 square feet. Despite the size, it is the most potent heater that you’ll ever find.

  • Save energy

    • This heater comes with the energy efficiency feature which will make the most out of your energy effectively. The appliance can easily create heat without wasting the energy.

  • Save space

    • In case you are using this at home, you don’t need to worry about your available space. It does not require too much. The small size of the device gives you the freedom to install and move it around.

Cons:
  • Larger area coverage

    • The small heater is meant to focus on a room or garage at home. Or outdoor space with a medium group of people. But if it is larger than 200 square to cover, your heater may not work maximally.

Dr. Heater DR966 – best electric heater for garage (uninsulated garage)

Dr. Heater DR966 240-volt Hardwired Shop Garage Commercial Heater, 3000-watt/6000-watt
garage heater 240V

Dr. Heater DR966 – Best product for the price

  • Heavy Duty 240V Single Phase 3000/6000W Commercial Electric Heater
  • Hardwired; Power cord not included in the unit. Dimensions: Overall Height – Top to Bottom: -14.5″. Overall Width – Side to Side: -13″. Overall Depth – Front to Back: -14.5″
  • UL/CUL Listed Wall or Ceiling Mounted Heater; Bracket Included
  • Adjustable Thermostat with HIGH and LOW Setting. A dynamically 8 inch fan provide maximum air flow with minimum turbulence and noise, gently distributes warmth through your area
  • 5 Adjustable Louvers for to Direct Airflow
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Pros:
  • Flexible power

    • The amount of power is so fantastic so that you can heat your room in no time. There is no need to wait for a long time until the heat spread around the room. The high or low thermostat control gives you the freedom to set the temperature as you desire.

  • Great materials

    • The manufacturer of the model chose the high-profile steel for improving the durability and support. Since you purchase the device, you are not going to see it broken anytime soon. Not to mention that the device is finished with grey epoxy for another layer of protection.

  • Thermostat control

    • The good thing about the thermostat control is that you will have the full power on how you want to manage the temperature of your room. You will have the freedom to precisely control the temperature. This will also give you the flexibility to go in either high or low heat. It has five louvers which you can use to control the weather as you want.

  • Install it anywhere

    • The compact model allows you to install it anywhere in your home or property. Thanks to the brackets, you will be able to put this on your wall, or ceiling, based on your preference. Whether it is for your garage, basement, work area, warehouse, etc., you can’t go wrong with this device. By looking at its power, we can agree that it is one of the most compact devices we can find on the market today.

  • It’s compatibility

    • The measurement is not too big to install in any room. The good thing about its compatibility is that it does not take a long time to fix it in your place. With the brackets, the installation can be much more comfortable than before. You can also move it around your home when you need to run your workspace to other room temporarily. The size, weight, and dimension of the device allow you to do that.

  • Durable and sturdy

    • The manufacturer did choose the materials for the device carefully so that they were able to produce the durable and sturdy equipment that you can put in the garage, construction site, workshop, or basement. It is designed to withstand the unforgiving weather out there so that you can manage to pass the harsh winter with the help of the heater.

Cons:
  • The power cord is not included

    • Unfortunately, you will not receive the power cord in the package since it is sold separately. It is a hardwired device. It can be an issue for some folks. However, it should not procure any bigger problem since you can purchase the power cord for an affordable price.

  • Only work in a single direction

    • The device’s operative does not turn around. That means the invention only contribute the heat in only one single direction. Since it also does not have a remote control, you will need someone vacant to turn the direction of the heat manually.

Infrared Heater DR-988. Best electric garage heater 240v

Infrared Heater DR-988 Garage Shop 208/240V, 4800/5600W Heater with 6-30R Plug
Best electric garage heater 240v

Dr Infrared Heater DR-988 – best electric garage heater 240v

  • Heats Up To 600 Square Feet with Auto Overheat Cut-Off Protection
  • Temperature Range: 45-95 degrees F. Comes with Thermostat control. Wattage: 5600W. Volts: 240V/ 208V
  • UL and C-UL listed
  • Power Cord: NEMA 6-30P (receptacle NeMA 60-30R 250V 30 Amps)
  • Requires a 220V plug in and not for general residential or household use, cannot be mounted on the ceiling
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Pros:
  • Versatility

    • The designer of the model knows what it takes to make such a great product. The device is usable for both outdoor and semi-outdoor purposes. That means you can put the device anywhere you like from your terrace, balcony, the patio, sheds, garages, warehouses, construction sites, and many more.

  • Good for ears

    • Unlike the other heaters that make some noises, this device does not procure such big sounds. It operates much quieter than other models in its class. By far, we can be confident to say that it is the best heater you can find on the market.

  • Simple and straightforward to use

    • It comes with right size, compatibility, as well as portability. You can use the heater as soon after unboxing your package. You won’t need to assemble the parts or so. Just put it out of the box and enjoy.

  • Cost efficient

    • Dr. Infrared can produce such great heat without demanding too much on your energy sources. As a result, you can save more for your energy bills.

  • A wide range of heat

    • You can set the temperature as low as 45 degrees Fahrenheit to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. With this heat range option, you can use the device anywhere for any purpose.

  • Full control

    • It has sophisticated thermostat control that you can use to manage the heater setting and overall room temperature. You have the full power in maintaining the quality of the room heating.

  • Great distance

    • The DR988 is so mighty so that it can reach a great distance. If you have a large area to cover, it is an excellent device for you.

  • Durable and sturdy

    • The manufacturer did choose the materials for the device carefully so that they were able to produce the durable and sturdy equipment that you can put in the garage, construction site, workshop, or basement. It is designed to withstand the unforgiving weather out there so that you can manage to pass the harsh winter with the help of the heater.

Cons:
  • You can’t control it remotely.

    • Since it does not come with remote control, you will need to operate the device manually. It can be a nuisance if you have a large area to cover.

  • Only work in a single direction

    • The device’s operative does not turn around. That means the invention only contribute the heat in only one single direction. Since it also does not have a remote control, you will need someone vacant to turn the direction of the heat manually.

Update 2019:

NewAir G56 5600 Watt Garage Heater - Get Fast Heat for 560 Sq. Ft.
best heater for garage in winter

NewAir G56 – best heater for garage in winter

  • Quickly heats up 800 square feet
  • Certified for electrical safety with overheat protection
  • Easy-to-use thermostat with manual controls
  • Portable design includes carrying handle and 6-foot cord
  • Sturdy steel construction with black powder coated finish
  • Product Dimensions 11 x 10.5 x 14 inches
  • Item Weight 16.6 pounds

Independent review:

First thing you’ll notice is a nice-looking heater. It’s all black. By the way, it is stainless steel. It’s power coated. So it’s going to take some use and abuse, and not really give me any trouble. It is stainless steel, you’re not going to worry about it rusting out. It’s got nice solid steel grates on the front and the back which I really like. It’s got a nice carrying handle. It weighs about between 16 and 18 pounds.

So we know it 240-volt heater. It’s 19,000 110 BT, and so it really puts out some heat. It’ll heat an area of about 560 square feet. So that should cover most of your two-car garages and things like that. It comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty which I really like. It’s got overheat protection, so it won’t get too hot. The actual size of it is roughly about twelve by twelve by fourteen. Let’s say fourteen tall by twelve by twelve. If you take an actual tape measure to it though, the nice thing is the depth. It’s about ten and three quarters from back to front, and about eleven and a half inches wide. But it is the 14 if you count the handle. So that’s some of the big specs. One of the big things that’ll do is a heat from 45 degrees all the way up to 95 degree.

Let’s talk real quick about the front of the heater. It’s very simple. You’ve got your controls down here which I really like the power indicator letting you know that there is electricity coming to it. At a glance you can know if you’ve got electric. You’ve got your fan with your Auto and then a switch we’re On. So an Auto mode lets your thermostat control everything. If you flip it to On, obviously the heaters just going to run all day on hot. If your thermostat controls it probably from 45 degrees up to 95 degrees, you can kind of guess about where as you’re turning the dial where that would put you at. I’m going to turn it on for a second. You’ll hear that loud audible click. In five seconds or so, you got good heat. You got steel grate to help protect you from anything going in there and damage into the fan or anything, if you’re working, if this is on the floor or anything like that. It puts out a nice heat, I will say that. It’s not that loud. So that’s the front of the heater.

Very quickly, this is the back of the heater. We’ve got another steel grate. This thing’s built really well. You can see your fan and your motor and everything. So that’s quite a simple here, you know, nothing real complicated. I don’t really see much ever going wrong with this. You got your wire coming in. So you know, it’s nice plastic grommet that goes in there and protects it, keeps it from being pulled out or anything. Pretty nice!

Let’s talk about what positives and negatives about this heater. One of the only negatives that I can find is that it has a six foot cord. So you only have six feet from your plug to where you can place the heater. That’s really not that big of a deal probably most of the time. But that’s really the only kind I can find. Now the pros – it’s well built. It’s all steel. You got a thermostat, it heats up quickly. 560 square feet – is a pretty good size room that this thing can heat up within a few hours. So if you’ve got an insulated room, I’ll bet you this thing will take care of you within an hour. The NewAir G56 is a great little heater. It is portable. Take it where you want it. You can run it. It’ll turn itself on and off. It’s got a great protection for overheating, and solid construction you can’t beat it.

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NewAir G73 Hardwired Electric Garage Heater, Heats up to 750 square feet
best electric heater for uninsulated garage

NewAir G73 – best electric heater for uninsulated garage

  • Built-in thermostat with automatic shut-off protects against overheating
  • Durable stainless steel construction is built to last.Coverage Area: 500 square feet
  • Hardwired (not a traditional electrical outlet) to eliminate maintenance problems associated with propane heaters
  • Heats up to 750 square feet – perfect for shops, garages, worksites
  • The NewAir G73 is a 240 volt heater and requires 30 amp circuits when setting up. Profession installation from an Electrician is recommended
  • Product Dimensions 9 x 9.5 x 14 inches
  • Item Weight 15 pounds

Independent review:

I wanted to show you some of the features of this thing, and there’s a few things I thought was really cool though I wasn’t expecting when I got it. One of the things I noticed is when I took it out of the box it is heavy. I mean it’s not overwhelmingly heavy, where you can’t easily mount it on the ceiling, or wall, or whatever, but it does seem heavy for its size. It kind of got me curious. So I put it on my shipping scale and found out it was a little over 13 pounds. One of the reasons I found out it was little on the heavier side was because the cabinet here itself is made out of 18 gauge stainless steel. Now as far as I’m concerned that’s a good thing with a heater. The heating elements will tend to radiate to the inner surfaces of a heater and being that stainless steel is a poor conductor of heat. It reduces the amount of heat that will make it to the outside of the cabinet. So it will reduce any kind of burn hazard or harm to the paint or anything like that. So I think that’s a good thing.

Speaking of stainless I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the heating element but what it reminds me of is it like you would see in a kitchen range and electrics. You know an electric stove, it looks just like that, only it’s not flattened on top. It’s a tubular heat exchanger or heating element, and there’s actually two layers. It looks to be one heating element but it has a front and back section. So the air actually goes through two heating elements before it comes out. And also the fan is nice-looking. It’s a polished fan. I don’t know if it’s stainless steel or aluminum. It doesn’t really matter as long as it works. But I do fabricating, so I kind of appreciate finishing touches like that. It just looks nice.

Another thing to hear of course is a louvers like you would expect on pretty much any garage or shop heater. They have a wide range of adjustments here. They’re loose enough that they’re easy to adjust. But they’re firm enough that they’re not going to move during operation which is, you know, an excellent quality.

Right here is the junction box. Now with a cedar, it’s going to be hardwired into a 240 volt circuit, so you’ll need to run at least a 10 gauge cable or wire into this junction box using either conduit or some flexible metal armor. There is a thermostat here. It’s a real simple control to turn it on. You turn it on clockwise the entire way and you let it run until it brings the room up to the temperature, where you’re comfortable. Then you come back to the thermostat in and you slowly turn it counterclockwise until the heater just shuts off. And at that point the heater will take over and maintain that temperature that is set at.

Also, with the heater they gave you some brackets. Of course, a bracket here is what is going to be suspended by, and this attaches with a couple of quarter-inch bolts on either side of the enclosure. And I’ll show you a little bit more about that during the installation. It’s a real easy type of thing to figure out anyways. And they give you another bracket here. This is a wall or ceiling mounting bracket and I actually measured it, this is one-eighth inch steel flat stock. So it’s really heavy-duty, it’s not going to go anywhere. One of the ways you can attach it, of course, is to the ceiling and the U-bracket is attached like that. It allows you to swivel the heater in whatever direction you need. And if you put it on the wall, it’s the same deal, it allows you to do that. They also give you some concrete mounting anchors in case you have a masonry wall. This comes in handy.

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Best electric garage heater 120v and 240v. Most efficient garage heaters

Today I will talk a little bit about heating solutions for my garage 120v. Now, you probably know that I haven’t needed heat because I lived in Arizona. When I moved to Colorado, I had my work cut out for me. I really had to do a lot of research to get to know what the current options are and which option is best for me in this certain situation. That is why, thought to share some of that information with you, because there’s a lot of options.

For a start is forced air heaters that run on gas, or propane, natural gas, kerosene, or diesel. These are very effective, but do require a gas supply, an exhaust, and a clean air intake and a sealed combustion chamber in order to prevent any major issues from the presence of wood dust or finishing fumes in the air. Then is forced air electric heaters. They have a similar concept to the gas versions but these units rely solely on electricity to produce heat. It is easy to install it but there is an evident drawback such as the increased electric bill.
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