Image from Amazon
There’s a reason you all need one of the best garage heaters in your possession.
I’ll never forget the massive ice storm of 2007 in Kansas City, Missouri. We lost power for days on end and had to get creative to stay comfortable. We did have a generator that we used sparingly for basic needs, but we didn’t have a propane heater. Instead, we relied on our woodpile to fuel our fireplace.
While it was a good source of heat, the fireplace wouldn’t heat the whole house, and our garage was an icebox. Had we invested in one of the best garage heaters, our lives would have been significantly more comfortable.
Though we can’t always predict bad weather and power outages, we can prepare for the worst by purchasing one of the best garage heaters ahead of time.
What to Look for in the Best Garage Heaters
There are several qualities to look for in the best garage heaters. First and foremost, you want to pay attention to a heater’s output, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), which also helps determine how much square footage the heater is rated for.
In addition, you also want to pay attention to the type of fuel it needs. Most of the best garage heaters run on liquid propane, but a few can also use natural gas for fuel.
How Propane Heaters Work
Propane heaters work by releasing the energy in propane (which is a highly inflammable hydrocarbon) with fire. The ignition mechanism sets the propane on fire, and a mechanism (often made of porcelain) spreads out the flame to better distribute heat.
Plus, note that the pilot light is continuously running and using very little fuel to be ready to ignite the main light on a moment’s notice.
Answers You Need to Know
It’s only natural to have questions regarding the safety and operation of the best garage heaters.
Is it safe to use a propane heater indoors?
It’s not safe to use all types of heaters indoors with proper ventilation. However, manufacturers make the best garage heaters to be safe indoors.
What size propane tank should I use?
The size of tank you use depends on the model of the best garage heaters. Many of the best garage heaters with hoses can use a large 20-pound propane tank.
How long does a single propane tank last?
The duration that a tank lasts depends on the size of the tank, the BTU-rating of the heater, and how high or low you have it set. They can last anywhere between a few hours and 72 hours.
What can I do to mitigate the chance of a fire?
To mitigate the chance of a fire with the best garage heaters, make sure there are no inflammable materials (newspapers, wood products, etc.) within several feet of the heater. Always have a fire extinguisher on hand, too.
If I have a generator, can I use it with an electric heater?
Yes, many electric heaters work with a generator. However, it’s best to have one of the best garage heaters that run on propane as a backup.
How We Reviewed
We reviewed by first researching how the best garage heaters work, as well as the most essential qualities to look for. In addition, we researched independent heater reviews to give a more in-depth analysis.
Also, note that we did take into account each model’s Amazon rating and both positive and negative Amazon customer reviews for each model.
Finally, we gathered all of that lovely information together to bring you only the best.
What We Reviewed
[amazon box=”B002G51BZU, B07L357CT7, B002LLMGEO, B01DD6C4TC, B0054WH796, B001CFRF7I, B016HUP4OS, B016HUP4MK, B000NWQQS0, B00CDJHIYW,B005IH6TXW,” template=”table”]
Introducing the 12 Best Garage Heaters
Here are the best garage heaters we could find. They’re not listed in any particular order, but we’re sure you’ll find something to match your specific needs!
[amazon link=”B002G51BZU” title=”Mr. Heater F232000″ /]
[amazon box=”B002G51BZU”]
Mr. Heater is a major player in the propane heating industry, and it manufacturers the first of the best garage heaters. The Mr. Heater F232000 model has a compact design and runs off of a small propane tank.
This imported model provides 4,000 to 9,000 BTUs of heat output depending on how hot you run it. And the manufacturer claims it’s a good solution for heating spaces up to 225 square feet.
Most importantly, the manufacturer approves it for indoor use as well as outdoor use, so it’s safe to use in your garage. However, Mr. Heater warns that if you run the heater 7,000 feet above sea level, the heater may shut off.
One thing we liked is its safety features. If you accidentally knock this unit over, it automatically shuts off. In addition, it automatically shuts off if the pilot light goes out or if it detects low oxygen levels.
And at maximum BTU, this unit runs for up to three hours. Altogether, this model earned 4.5 stars out of 5.0 stars. Unfortunately, a critical review claimed this model set off carbon monoxide detectors.
On a happier note, positive reviews claimed this is a good heater and that it’s great for camping.
PROS
- 4,000 to 9,000 BTU
- Fairly inexpensive
- Compact
- Rated for indoor use
CONS
- Doesn’t run consistently above 7,000 feet
[amazon link=”B002G51BZU” title=”Mr. Heater F232000″ /]
[amazon box=”B002G51BZU”]
Mr. Heater is a major player in the propane heating industry, and it manufacturers the first of the best garage heaters. The Mr. Heater F232000 model has a compact design and runs off of a small propane tank.
This imported model provides 4,000 to 9,000 BTUs of heat output depending on how hot you run it. And the manufacturer claims it’s a good solution for heating spaces up to 225 square feet.
Most importantly, the manufacturer approves it for indoor use as well as outdoor use, so it’s safe to use in your garage. However, Mr. Heater warns that if you run the heater 7,000 feet above sea level, the heater may shut off.
One thing we liked is its safety features. If you accidentally knock this unit over, it automatically shuts off. In addition, it automatically shuts off if the pilot light goes out or if it detects low oxygen levels.
And at maximum BTU, this unit runs for up to three hours. Altogether, this model earned 4.5 stars out of 5.0 stars. Unfortunately, a critical review claimed this model set off carbon monoxide detectors.
On a happier note, positive reviews claimed this is a good heater and that it’s great for camping.
PROS
- 4,000 to 9,000 BTU
- Fairly inexpensive
- Compact
- Rated for indoor use
CONS
- Doesn’t run consistently above 7,000 feet
[amazon link=”B07L357CT7″ title=”STANLEY ST-60HB2-GFA” /]
[amazon box=”B07L357CT7″]
The STANLEY ST-60HB2-GFA is the next of the best garage heaters, though it has a different shape than the previous model. While the last model was a general space heater, this model has a directional tube to direct heat exactly where you want it.
Even though this model is slightly more expensive than the previous one, it offers significantly more heat.
The STANLEY ST-60HB2-GFA heats up to 300 cubic feet per minute with a total output of up to 60,000 BTU of heat.
Plus, it comes with a 10-foot hose and a regulator that give you the flexibility to move it away from the fuel source. It also has a convenient handle on top to move it without burning your hand.
Additionally, be aware that this model comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty. Overall, this model earned 4.7 stars out of 5.0 stars. And positive reviews said it works well and has a powerful heat output.
On the other hand, a leading critical review complained that they doubted the legitimacy of other reviews.
PROS
- 10-foot hose
- Convenient handle
- Up to 60,000 BTU
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than the previous model
[amazon link=”B002LLMGEO” title=”World Marketing DH Propane Heater” /]
[amazon box=”B002LLMGEO”]
The next of the best garage heaters is the World Marketing DH Propane Heater, which is different than the last two models. Unlike the previous two models, this heater directly attaches to a large propane tank.
In addition, note that this model uses matches or a Piezoelectric spark for ignition. We did like that this model is both wind-resistant and protected from the rain. It also has adjustable input ratings, and we liked that this model is roughly half the cost of the previous two heaters.
The alternative for the best garage heaters provides decent heat output, too. You can adjust it to 9,000, 12,000, or 15,000 BTU of heat.
However, be aware that if you don’t have a large propane tank (such as one you’d use for a grill), this product won’t function.
It did pretty well on Amazon too, where it earned 4.3 stars out of 5.0 stars. One customer review commented that it’s quiet, easy to use and that it heats fast. On the other hand, a negative customer review said it was broken out of the box.
PROS
- Quiet and easy to use
- Decent heat output
- Usable indoors
CONS
- Doesn’t have its own base or stand
- Requires large propane tank
[amazon link=”B01DD6C4TC” title=”Mr. Heater F274830″ /]
[amazon box=”B01DD6C4TC”]
The next of the best garage heaters, the Mr. Heater F274830, is more comparable to the first model. It is lightweight, portable, and compact, making it a suitable heater for camping as well as heating your garage.
Naturally, you can use it indoors, and it has a heat output rating of 4,000, 9,000, and 18,000 BTU.
Again, we found it interesting that this model doesn’t operate properly above 7,000 feet. Nevertheless, the manufacturer designed this model to heat up to 450 square feet. Plus, it has a simple control know to adjust the temperature.
As far as safety is concerned, this model also has an automatic shut-off feature in the event you tip it over.
Also, the manufacturer issues a dire warning: the use of unauthorized accessories and attachments is prohibited. Not only do they present a safety risk, but they also void the manufacturer’s warranty.
At any rate, this model fared well on Amazon, where it earned 4.5 stars out of 5.0 stars. Positive customer reviews claimed that this model pours out heat efficiently and that it’s great for camping.
Conversely, a negative customer review claimed their heater wouldn’t start.
PROS
- Lightweight and compact
- Fair heat output (18,000 BTU)
- Automatic shut-off feature
CONS
- More expensive than the previous models
[amazon link=”B0054WH796″ title=”Mr. Heater MH18CH” /]
[amazon box=”B0054WH796″]
Unsurprisingly, the next of the best garage heaters is another Mr. Heater model. The Mr. Heater MH18CH is a little different than the previous heater. Though it is a stand-up model, be aware that it has wheels for easier mobility.
In addition, note that the manufacturer designed the case with steel. And of course, as a propane heater, there is no need for electricity to fire this model up.
This model heats up to 450 square feet and is CSA certified. One thing we liked about this model is its longevity. At maximum BTU, this model runs for a full 24 hours. On the other hand, at minimum BTU, this model runs for an astounding 72 hours.
It did decent on Amazon too, where customers rated it 4.3 stars out of 5.0 stars. Positive customer reviews claimed this unit works well and heats large areas quickly. But a leading critical review remarked that this model is a piece of junk.
PROS
- Stand-up heater with wheels
- CSA certified
- Runs for 72 hours at minimum BTU
- Runs for 24 hours at maximum BTU
CONS
- Not small and compact
[amazon link=”B001CFRF7I” title=”Mr. Heater F215100″ /]
[amazon box=”B001CFRF7I”]
The Mr. Heater F215100 is another of the best garage heaters. One thing that makes this model stand out from the previous best garage heaters is its size. That model is so small and lightweight; you can easily hold in your hand; it’s only slightly larger than a microphone.
However, because of its size, it doesn’t heat as large an area as a big stand-up heater. Instead, the manufacturer only rates this model to heat up to 95 square feet.
Also, be aware that this model uses small one-pound disposable propane cylinders. At maximum BTU, this model only runs for 5.6 hours before you’ll need to replace the propane canister.
In addition, be aware that this heater requires a ventilation area up to four square inches (minimum) during operation.
And like the other Mr. Heater products, this model shuts off if it senses low oxygen or if you accidentally tip it over.
The manufacturer also claims that this model is odor-free and that it has a 45-degree heating angle.
Overall, Amazon customers rated this product 4.0 stars out of 5.0 stars. A disgruntled customer review remarked that this heater wouldn’t stay lit, while positive customer reviews claimed this model is easy to start and perfect for use inside a tent.
PROS
- Small size
- Inexpensive
CONS
- Doesn’t provide as much heat as a large stand-up heater
- Short run-time
[amazon link=”B016HUP4OS” title=”Dyna-Glo BF10PMDG” /]
[amazon box=”B016HUP4OS”]
The next of the best garage heaters is our first Dyna-Glo product thus far. The Dyna-Glo BF10PMDG has an aesthetically pleasing white and black exterior with metal fencing protecting the heat source.
This heater is liquid-propane ready, although fuel conversion is not permitted. It has a reasonably decent heat output, too. On the low end, it offers 8,000 BTU of heat output, and 10,000 BTU on the highest setting.
Plus, this model is rated to heat up to 300 square feet, which is more than adequate for most garages. And of course, there is no need for electricity to start this model.
If you wish, you can also purchase an additional fan for this model to blow heat more evenly in your garage.
It’s technically a wall unit, so legs aren’t included with this model. If you would rather use it as a floor unit, the manufacturer allows customers to buy the legs separately.
Finally, note that this model comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.
On Amazon, customers rated this product 4.2 stars out of 5.0 stars. Sadly, a leading critical review commented that this heater stopped working after two days.
However, a positive review claimed it keeps room temperatures above freezing in a sub-zero climate.
PROS
- Heats up to 300 square feet
- Blue flame convection technology
- Variable control knob
CONS
- Not the most powerful heater with an extremely high heat output
- Legs sold separately
[amazon link=”B016HUP4OS” title=”Dyna-Glo BF10PMDG” /]
[amazon box=”B016HUP4MK”]
The next of the best garage heaters is our first Dyna-Glo product thus far. The Dyna-Glo BF10PMDG has an aesthetically pleasing white and black exterior with metal fencing protecting the heat source.
This heater is liquid-propane ready, although fuel conversion is not permitted. It has a reasonably decent heat output, too. On the low end, it offers 8,000 BTU of heat output, and 10,000 BTU on the highest setting.
Plus, this model is rated to heat up to 300 square feet, which is more than adequate for most garages. And of course, there is no need for electricity to start this model.
If you wish, you can also purchase an additional fan for this model to blow heat more evenly in your garage.
It’s technically a wall unit, so legs aren’t included with this model. If you would rather use it as a floor unit, the manufacturer allows customers to buy the legs separately.
Finally, note that this model comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.
On Amazon, customers rated this product 4.2 stars out of 5.0 stars. Sadly, a leading critical review commented that this heater stopped working after two days.
However, a positive review claimed it keeps room temperatures above freezing in a sub-zero climate.
PROS
- Heats up to 300 square feet
- Blue flame convection technology
- Variable control knob
CONS
- Not the most powerful heater with an extremely high heat output
- Legs sold separately
[amazon link=”B075JCV3QF” title=”Dyna-Glo IRSS12LPT-2P” /]
[amazon box=”B075JCV3QF”]
The Dyna-Glo IRSS12LPT-2P is the next of the best garage heaters and is priced more towards the middle of the pricing spectrum. In addition, note that this model has up to 12,000 BTU of heat output and heats areas as large as 300 square feet.
Interestingly enough, this model has a unique infrared technology that helps to radiate heat more efficiently. And of course, this model doesn’t require any electrical charge to start the heater.
As with most other Dyna-Glo models, if you want a fan to disperse heat throughout your garage more quickly, you must buy it separately. That’s another wall unit, so the same holds true for legs; this model doesn’t come with legs by default.
It does have a one-year warranty, too, which is better than nothing. And altogether this model earned 4.5 stars out of 5.0 stars on Amazon. Negatively, a customer review claimed they could never get the pilot light to start.
On a more positive note, happy customer reviews were impressed with its immense heat output and said it was easy to install and that it works well.
PROS
- Middle-of-the-road pricing
- Infrared technology
- Liquid propane ready
CONS
- Not the most powerful heater
[amazon link=”B000NWQQS0″ title=”ProCom Liquid Propane Heater” /]
[amazon box=”B000NWQQS0″]
The next of the best garage heaters is the ProCom Liquid Propane Heater. As the name implies, it is only usable with liquid propane and doesn’t support natural gas fuel.
However, we did like that this model has up to 15,000 BTU of heat output and that it heats up to 700 square feet. We think that is above and beyond what the average homeowner needs to heat a garage.
And in addition to its manual control knob to manipulate heat output, we also liked this model’s fine mesh grate over the front for safety.
The manufacturer claims this model is up to 99.9 percent efficient too because it has a vent-free gas burner.
Overall, this model earned 4.3 stars out of 5.0 stars on Amazon. But a negative customer review claimed this model doesn’t hold a candle to their old Vanguard heater. Conversely, a positive review said this model is so powerful they can heat their entire home with two of these models.
PROS
- 15,000 BTU
- 99.9 percent efficient with vent-free gas burner
- Heats up to 700 square feet
CONS
- More expensive than most models
[amazon link=”B00CDJHIYW” title=”Mr. Heater MH12B” /]
[amazon box=”B00CDJHIYW”]
The Mr. Heater MH12B is the next of the best garage heaters. The manufacturers designed this portable space heater for hunting, camping, and general outdoor use, though it is safe to use in your garage.
Unlike many other models, this model has a swivel regulator, though, like most other models, it has an automatic shut-off feature if it detects low oxygen.
This smaller heater runs off of a one-pound cylinder too, which doesn’t last as long as larger heaters. However, do be aware you have the option to connect it to a 20-pound cylinder with an optional hose.
Amazon customers gave this model an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5.0 stars too. But a negative customer review said this model didn’t hold up and that it broke after only one season of use.
On the other hand, a positive customer review said they like how quiet it is, and would recommend getting the extra hose to connect it to a larger tank.
PROS
- Very lightweight, compact, and portable
- Swivel regulator
- Manual controls
CONS
- Not the most powerful heater
- Only uses small one-pound tanks, so it doesn’t last as long as other heaters
[amazon link=”B005IH6TXW” title=”Protemp Forced Air Heater” /]
[amazon box=”B005IH6TXW”]
The last of the best garage heaters is the Protemp Forced Air Heater. This model has a whopping 60,000 BTU of heat output. Also, the manufacturer claims it is suitable to heat up to 1,500 square feet.
In addition, we liked that it has a long life despite its high BTU output. With a 20-pound propane tank, it lasts up to 11 hours.
Naturally, it also has variable heat settings that allow users to control the heat output, and by extension, the longevity of the propane tank.
Also, note that this is a directional heater as opposed to an ambient heater. However, given its high BTU output, it’s likely you won’t notice drawbacks of a directional heater in small-to-medium-sized garages.
Altogether, this model earned 4.4 stars out of 5.0 stars on Amazon. Positive reviews claimed this model is well-built and that it’s a competent garage heater. Negative reviews, however, claimed that this model has a poor ignition system.
PROS
- Lasts up to 11 hours
- 60,000 BTU of heat output
- Variable heat settings
CONS
- Doesn’t run on fuel other than propane
Keeping Your Cool and Staying Warm with the Best Garage Heater
Power outages are anything but fun or convenient. Instead of suffering through the next ice storm or snow apocalypse, prepare for unforeseeable weather events with the best garage heaters. Plus, it would be prudent to invest in a generator as well.
If you have any personal experience with the aforementioned heaters or a story of your experience in a particularly nasty power outage or ice storm, feel free to comment below.
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