The best way to heat a garage in winter is by using a propane or electric heater, ensuring proper insulation and ventilation for safety and efficiency.
Shivering in your garage every winter? Cold floors, icy tools, and numb fingers make it impossible to work or workout comfortably. Poor insulation, inefficient heaters, and high energy bills turn your garage into a frozen wasteland.
The right garage heating solution can transform your space into a cozy retreat. In this guide, we’ll cover the most efficient methods, from infrared heaters to ductless mini-splits. For long-term comfort, pairing heating with proper garage insulation delivers the best results.
Key Takeaways
- Insulation is critical – Reduces heat loss by up to 70%
- Forced-air heaters work fastest for large spaces
- Infrared heaters provide targeted warmth efficiently
- Mini-split systems offer year-round climate control
1. Insulate Before You Heat
Stop heat loss first with garage door insulation kits (R-12+) and wall foam boards (R-13). Heating an uninsulated garage wastes energy – the U.S. Department of Energy notes insulation can cut heating costs by 20-50%.
- Door seals: Replace worn weatherstripping
- Wall insulation: Fiberglass batts or spray foam
- Flooring: Interlocking rubber mats retain heat
2. Forced-Air Propane Heaters
Torpedo-style heaters (30,000-60,000 BTU) heat 2-car garages in 15 minutes. Ideal for intermittent use, but require ventilation due to carbon monoxide risks.
| Model | BTU | Coverage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx | 50,000 | 1,250 sq ft | $329 |
| Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGP | 60,000 | 1,500 sq ft | $279 |
3. Infrared Quartz Heaters
Energy-efficient radiant heat warms objects directly (like sunlight) without drying the air. Perfect for spot heating workbenches or gym areas.
- Wall-mounted: Dr.Heater DR-968 (1,500W)
- Portable: Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX
- Ceiling: Herschel Inspire (2,000W)
4. Oil-Filled Radiator Heaters
Silent, safe operation makes these ideal for overnight use. Though slower to heat, they maintain temperatures steadily with 500-1,500W models covering 150-300 sq ft.
5. Ductless Mini-Split Systems
The premium solution with both heating and cooling (18-24 SEER). ENERGY STAR rates these 30% more efficient than baseboard heaters. Expect $1,500-$4,000 installed.
Comparison Table: Garage Heating Options
| Type | Best For | Heat Time | Avg Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Propane | Quick heating | 10-20 min | $200-$500 |
| Infrared | Spot heating | Instant | $150-$400 |
| Mini-Split | Year-round use | 15-30 min | $1,500+ |
Choose based on your garage size, budget, and how often you use the space. Combine insulation with the right heater, and you’ll conquer winter comfortably. Stay warm!
