For those dedicated to year-round projects in their garage or workshop, battling the cold is a familiar struggle. A garage heater can transform a frigid workspace into a comfortable haven, allowing you to pursue your automotive repairs or DIY tasks without the discomfort of biting temperatures. Garage heaters operate on similar principles to space heaters, but they are built with the robustness and power needed to effectively heat larger, often less insulated spaces. Choosing the right garage heater hinges on several factors, including the size of your garage, your local climate, and how you intend to use the space, as emphasized by Traci Fournier, VP of Operations at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning.
To guide you in making the best choice, we rigorously tested a range of gas and electric garage heaters in real-world home garage settings. Our evaluations focused on key aspects such as ease of setup, heating performance, and user-friendly features. This hands-on testing, combined with expert insights from industry professionals like Fournier, helps us bring you recommendations you can trust.
What We Evaluated in Our Garage Heater Tests
Our testing methodology for garage heaters centered on three core criteria: setup, performance, and features. We aimed to replicate typical garage environments and usage scenarios to provide practical and relevant assessments. For a detailed breakdown of our testing process, you can refer to our comprehensive guide on how we test heaters.
Our Top Garage Heater Recommendations
Based on our extensive testing, we’ve identified the following garage heaters as standouts in their respective categories:
Best Overall Garage Heater:
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater at Amazon $124
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Best Propane Garage Heater:
Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater at Amazon $93 (Sale Price)
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Best Garage Heater for Large Spaces:
Briza Infrared Electric Heater at Amazon $99 (Sale Price)
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Best Ceiling Mounted Garage Heater:
Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater at Amazon $290
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Best Hybrid Garage Heater:
Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater at Amazon $211
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Best Electric Garage Heater:
Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater at Amazon $81 (Sale Price)
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Compare Our Top Picks
| ![]() Best Overall Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater | Best Overall Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater | View on Amazon | Price | $124 | Power Source | Propane | Max Heat Output | 18,000 Btus | Installation Options | Portable | Dimensions | 19 x 12 x 17.75 inches | Room Size | 450 square feet | Full Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ![]() Best Propane Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater | Best Propane Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater | View on Amazon | $93 | Propane | 60,000 Btus | Portable | 15.98 x 8.82 x 13.5 inches | 1,500 square feet | Full Review | ||||||
| ![]() Best for Large Garages Briza Infrared Electric Heater | Best for Large Garages Briza Infrared Electric Heater | View on Amazon | $99 | Corded Electric | 1,500 Watts | Wall, ceiling, or tripod stand | 35.5 x 4 x 4 inches | 1,000 square feet | Full Review | ||||||
| ![]() Best Ceiling Mounted Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater | Best Ceiling Mounted Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater | View on Amazon | $290 | Hardwired | 10,000 Watts | Ceiling | 17.88 x 14 x 14.5 inches | 1,500 square feet | Full Review | ||||||
| ![]() Best Hybrid Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater | Best Hybrid Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater | View on Amazon | $211 | Propane, corded electric, or battery | 68,000 Btus | Portable | 20 x 13 x 17 inches | 1,700 square feet | Full Review | ||||||
| ![]() Best Electric Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater | Best Electric Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater | View on Amazon | $81 | Corded Electric | 1,500 Watts | Wall and portable | 4 x 19 x 16 inches | 150 square feet | Full Review |
Best Overall
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
$124 at Amazon $149 at Wayfair $124 at Walmart
Why It’s a Top Pick: The Mr. Heater Big Buddy stands out as the best overall garage heater due to its versatile power output, ranging from 4,000 to 18,000 Btu across three heat settings. This adaptability makes it suitable for various garage sizes and heating needs.
Things to Consider: A notable drawback is that the Mr. Heater Big Buddy does not include a gas hose, requiring a separate purchase for propane connection.
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater is a lightweight and easily portable solution for garage heating. It offers three heat settings—low (4,000 Btu), medium (9,000 Btu), and high (18,000 Btu)—making it capable of warming spaces up to 450 square feet. On the low setting, it provides over three hours of runtime, while on high, it runs for nearly two hours.
In our tests, the Big Buddy impressed us with its ability to distribute warmth evenly throughout the test space. We could feel the heat radiating effectively up to 15 feet away, a significant improvement over a standard 110-volt infrared room heater we previously used in the same garage.
Setup was a breeze, and the included instructions were clear and straightforward, earning it extra points for user-friendliness. The only initial hurdle was the absence of a gas hose, which we had to purchase separately along with an adapter to conduct our tests.
Despite being a propane heater, the Big Buddy operates at a reasonably quiet level, even with the fan running. However, we observed that the heat primarily rises from the unit, meaning areas at floor level might not get as warm. A longer power cord would have also been beneficial for increased placement flexibility.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Propane
- Maximum Heat Output: 18,000 Btus
- Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 17.75 inches
- Recommended Room Size: Up to 450 square feet
- Installation: Portable
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We needed to provide our own gas hose to connect the propane tank to the Mr. Heater Big Buddy, a detail to note when purchasing. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Patrick McGowan -
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The Mr. Heater Big Buddy is designed to accommodate two 1-pound propane cylinders directly on its sides for convenient fuel access. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Patrick McGowan -
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When in operation, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy emits a visible glow, indicating it is effectively heating the space. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Patrick McGowan -
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The Mr. Heater Big Buddy’s portability is a key feature, enhanced by its handle and a light weight of just 11 pounds, making it easy to move around the garage. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Patrick McGowan
Best Propane
Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
$93 at Amazon $105 at Walmart $220 at Target
Why It’s a Top Pick: For those needing rapid heating in larger garages, the Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater is the best propane option. Its powerful 60,000 Btu output can quickly elevate the temperature in spaces up to 1,500 square feet.
Things to Consider: This heater lacks a built-in thermostat, meaning temperature regulation is manual and it may not be the most energy-efficient choice for maintaining a consistent temperature.
The Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater demonstrated impressive heating speed in our tests. It rapidly transformed a 34°F garage into a noticeably warmer environment within just five minutes, particularly in the direction of the airflow. With a maximum output of 60,000 Btu, it’s among the most powerful garage heaters we tested.
This model can operate for up to 12 hours on a single 20-pound propane tank, making it a reliable backup during power outages or emergency situations. User-friendly dials allow for simple heat adjustment, and it includes a gas hose and regulator for controlling propane pressure. Integrated handles enhance portability.
Designed to heat areas up to 1,500 square feet, it’s well-suited for medium to large garages or job sites. While marketed as 50% quieter than comparable models, we found it to be quite loud, similar to a box fan on high speed. Noise-canceling headphones might be necessary for extended use in close proximity.
Although highly effective at heating, this heater isn’t the most energy-efficient option due to the absence of a thermostat. It cannot automatically adjust its output to maintain a set temperature, potentially leading to energy waste if the space becomes too warm.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Propane
- Maximum Heat Output: 60,000 Btus
- Dimensions: 15.98 x 8.82 x 13.5 inches
- Recommended Room Size: Up to 1,500 square feet
- Installation: Portable, Floor Mounted, Tabletop Mounted
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Setting up the Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater involves connecting a gas hose to a propane tank and, due to its short power cord, likely requiring an extension cord for operation. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Lucas Peters -
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The Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater distinguishes itself as one of the most powerful heaters we evaluated in our garage heater testing. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Lucas Peters -
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Portability is a key advantage of the Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater, which is designed to be compact and includes a handle for easy transport. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Lucas Peters -
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The handle of the Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater is included but requires attachment upon unboxing. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Lucas Peters
Best for Large Garages
Briza Infrared Electric Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
$99 at Amazon $118 at Walmart View on Woot.com
Why It’s a Top Pick: The Briza Infrared Electric Heater is our top choice for large garages due to its efficient infrared heating technology and IP55 weather resistance. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, offering versatility and durability.
Things to Consider: Precise temperature control is lacking as it only offers heat level settings without specific temperature adjustments.
The Briza Infrared Electric Heater utilizes infrared technology to heat objects rather than the surrounding air. This method can lead to energy savings, particularly beneficial in large garage spaces. It provides three heat settings—900, 1,200, and 1,500 watts—though specific temperature settings are not available.
During our testing in a three-car garage, we quickly felt the warming effects of the Briza heater within minutes. Safety features include an automatic shut-off in case of tipping, and its IP55 rating ensures protection against dust and moisture, expanding its usability to patios and balconies.
We appreciated the flexible installation options, including ceiling mounting and floor placement with an included adjustable tripod stand (48-75 inches). However, its horizontal-only positioning can limit placement options, and we wished for vertical tilting capability for corner installations.
Effective heating was noticeable within a 10-foot radius, but the heat significantly diminished behind the unit. A key advantage is its silent operation, as it operates without a fan.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Maximum Heat Output: 1,500 watts
- Dimensions: 35.5 x 4 x 4 inches
- Recommended Room Size: Up to 1,000 square feet
- Installation: Wall, Ceiling, or Tripod Stand
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The Briza Infrared Electric Heater’s horizontal-only setup might restrict its placement in certain garage layouts, requiring consideration of space and orientation. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Hildara Araya -
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The Briza Infrared Electric Heater includes a remote control for convenient operation, allowing users to adjust settings like timer and heat level remotely. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Hildara Araya -
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The Briza Infrared Electric Heater offers versatile setup options, capable of being mounted on a wall or placed on the floor using its included tripod stand. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Hildara Araya -
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The Briza Infrared Electric Heater package includes the tripod stand, enhancing its out-of-the-box usability and setup flexibility. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Hildara Araya
Best Ceiling Mounted
Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
$290 at Amazon $290 at Walmart
Why It’s a Top Pick: The Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater is ideal for those prioritizing space-saving and consistent heat distribution. Its ceiling-mounted design frees up valuable garage floor and wall space while ensuring even heat dispersion.
Things to Consider: It is one of the pricier options, further increased by professional installation costs as it requires hardwiring.
While the Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater represents a higher investment, its benefits in terms of garage space optimization and heating efficiency justify the cost for many users. Ceiling mounting ensures heat is distributed uniformly from above, eliminating cold spots commonly found with floor-level heaters.
Constructed from robust heavy-gauge steel, it includes a remote control with a 12-hour timer for automated operation and an overheat protection sensor for safety. In our tests, it reliably maintained a consistent 50°F temperature in the garage.
The heater operates with a low hum that doesn’t interfere with conversation or ambient sound. It’s available in 5,000, 7,500, and 10,000-watt models, providing options to suit different garage sizes and heating demands.
Installation is more complex as it requires hardwiring and should be performed by a qualified electrician. The combined cost of the unit and professional installation makes it one of the more expensive choices, but for those seeking a permanent, space-efficient heating solution, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Hardwired
- Maximum Heat Output: 10,000 watts
- Dimensions: 17.88 x 14 x 14.5 inches
- Recommended Room Size: Up to 1,500 square feet
- Installation: Ceiling
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The Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater features a temperature display and an LED indicator to show when it is actively heating the garage space. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Kelly Lewis -
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For garages where floor space is limited, the Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater is an excellent choice, keeping the floor area clear. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Kelly Lewis -
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Included with the Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater is a remote control, a crucial feature for ceiling-mounted units, allowing for easy adjustments without needing to reach the unit itself. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Kelly Lewis
Best Hybrid
Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
$211 at Amazon $202 at Wayfair $195 at Walmart (Sale Price)
Why It’s a Top Pick: Safety and versatility define the Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater. Its wide base enhances stability, making it less prone to tipping, and its hybrid power options provide flexibility in usage.
Things to Consider: The Dewalt Hybrid Heater necessitates good ventilation due to its propane operation, which may be challenging in very cold conditions when minimizing drafts is preferred.
The Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater is designed with user safety in mind, featuring a broad base that significantly reduces the risk of accidental knock-overs, making it safer in environments with children or pets. It also includes a safety shut-off that activates if the flame is extinguished.
During testing, we noted that the handle remained cool during operation, allowing for safe repositioning even when in use. Its hybrid power capability—electricity with 20-volt battery backup—makes it exceptionally versatile, suitable for power outages or off-grid use like camping (though battery operation was not tested).
With a robust 68,000 Btu output, it efficiently heated a three-car garage even in 11°F snowy conditions. However, it requires ample ventilation (open doors or windows) to prevent the accumulation of potentially hazardous gases.
Start-up in very cold weather might be slower, and the heater is notably loud, potentially disrupting conversations unless set below maximum output.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Hybrid (Corded Electric, Propane, Battery)
- Maximum Heat Output: 68,000 Btus
- Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 17 inches
- Recommended Room Size: Up to 1,700 square feet
- Installation: Portable
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For safe operation, the DEWALT 68,000 BTU Hybrid Portable Heater should always be used in well-ventilated areas to prevent buildup of fumes. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Jodi Espinosa -
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The heat output of the DEWALT 68,000 BTU Hybrid Portable Heater is managed via a nozzle, offering less precise temperature control compared to thermostat-equipped heaters. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Jodi Espinosa -
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The DEWALT 68,000 BTU Hybrid Portable Heater is equipped with both a gas hose for propane connection and an attachable handle for easier portability. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Jodi Espinosa -
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The DEWALT 68,000 BTU Hybrid Portable Heater’s hybrid nature allows it to be powered by either propane or electricity, adding to its versatility. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Jodi Espinosa
Best Electric
Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
$81 at Amazon $97 at Wayfair $118 at Walmart (Sale Price)
Why It’s a Top Pick: The Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater is the best electric garage heater due to its smart features and safety. App compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Home allows for scheduled heating, and its cool-touch exterior enhances safety.
Things to Consider: Color options are limited, primarily available in black and white.
The Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater is not just for garages; it’s well-suited for any room in your home. It provides a power output of 5,200 Btu and is effective in spaces ranging from 150 to 750 square feet, depending on insulation.
Smart features include thermostat control, remote operation, and app integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, enabling customized heating schedules. Temperature settings can be adjusted via the remote or the touchscreen on the unit.
Safety is a key highlight; it remained cool to the touch during operation, making it safe for households with children. It can be wall-mounted or used as a portable heater with attachable feet.
Efficiency is another strong point. It quickly warmed our two-room garage within 10 minutes and includes an energy-saving mode. Its design is relatively sleek compared to other garage heaters, though more color choices would be welcome.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Maximum Heat Output: 1,500 watts
- Dimensions: 4 x 19 x 16 inches
- Recommended Room Size: Up to 150 square feet
- Installation: Wall and Portable
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The Heat Storm Infrared Heater features an LED display that clearly indicates the current temperature in the garage, enhancing user control and awareness. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Mike Navarro -
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The Heat Storm Infrared Heater comes with a remote control that has clearly labeled buttons, making it straightforward to operate and adjust settings from a distance. PHOTO: Better Homes & Gardens / Mike Navarro
Other Garage Heaters We Tested
Heat Hog 18,000 BTU Indoor/Outdoor Portable Propane Heater
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Amazon
The Heat Hog Portable Propane Heater offers 18,000 Btu and a tilting feature to direct heat where needed. Suitable for small garages up to 450 square feet, its compact size and rapid propane consumption might make it better suited for outdoor activities like camping or tailgating rather than consistent garage heating.
Remington REM-80T-KFA-O Kerosene/Diesel Forced Air Heater with Thermostat
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Amazon
Buy on Amazon Buy on Home Depot
The Remington REM-80T-KFA-O, with an 80,000 Btu max output, is a powerful heater capable of quickly warming up a garage. In 4°F conditions, it significantly raised the garage temperature in just 15 minutes. However, its kerosene or diesel operation necessitates robust ventilation to eliminate carbon monoxide. It’s ideal for those needing quick, intense heat in well-ventilated spaces but might be overwhelming for users not comfortable with fuel-powered heaters.
Our Garage Heater Testing Methodology
Our testing process involved a comprehensive evaluation of various garage heater types, including portable freestanding, infrared electric, and gas-powered models. Portable heaters were tested for mobility and ease of use, while hardwired models were professionally installed to ensure safety and proper function.
Each heater was set up in a garage environment, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. A thermostat was placed 10 feet from the heater to monitor temperature changes. Baseline temperatures were recorded for an hour before each test.
For the first three uses, we tracked temperatures before heating, after 15 minutes of operation, and after shutdown. We also documented external factors like outside temperature, weather conditions (snow, wind, sun), and the number of vehicles in the garage to account for environmental variables.
Safety features were rigorously assessed, including timers, tip-over shut-off, surface temperature, and overheat protection. Additional features like thermostats, timers, humidity sensors, and eco-modes were also tested for functionality and user benefit.
Subjective factors like noise level, ease of use (on/off operation), and portability were considered. For electric heaters, we monitored energy consumption and any changes in energy bills during the testing period to assess efficiency.
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Better Homes & Gardens / Lucas Peters
Key Considerations When Choosing a Garage Heater
Heater Type
Garage heaters are primarily available as gas or electric models. Electric heaters are simpler to install and operate, requiring only plugging into a standard electrical outlet. Infrared electric heaters offer enhanced energy efficiency by heating objects directly rather than the air.
Gas heaters, while generally more cost-effective to run, require more complex setup. Natural gas heaters need a gas line installation, and proper ventilation is crucial to prevent carbon monoxide accumulation. Portable gas heaters use fuels like propane, kerosene, or diesel.
Heater Size
To determine the appropriate heater size, Fournier suggests a rule of thumb: 10 watts per square foot. For a 20×24 foot garage (480 square feet), a 4,800-watt heater would be suitable.
Power Source Options
Garage heaters are powered by either gas or electricity. Gas heaters can be cheaper to operate but necessitate a natural gas line or fuel storage and require good ventilation.
Installation Requirements
Installation complexity varies. Some electric models require hardwiring or ceiling/wall mounting, often needing professional installation. Natural gas heaters also need a natural gas line installed.
Fournier advises, “Professional installation ensures safety and proper sizing and type selection for your garage. It minimizes risks associated with DIY setups.”
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Better Homes & Gardens / Hildara Araya
Your Garage Heater Questions Answered
What type of garage heater is most energy-efficient?
Gas heaters are generally more energy-efficient than standard electric heaters. However, modern electric infrared heaters with features like eco-modes and programmable thermostats can significantly improve energy savings by regulating heat output.
How much BTU is needed for a two-car garage?
For a typical two-car garage of 500-700 square feet, approximately 45,000 BTU is generally needed. BTU requirements increase with garage size.
What is the installation cost for a garage heater?
Installation costs depend on heater type, size, fuel source, and complexity of installation. Portable heaters start around $100, while larger, hardwired models will incur higher costs, including professional electrician fees.
About Our Experts
Nor’Adila Hepburn, a seasoned writer for Better Homes & Gardens, specializes in detailed buying guides. Her recommendations are based on rigorous testing and expert consultations, such as with Traci Fournier, Vice President of Operations at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, ensuring well-informed and reliable advice.
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