Working in a garage is hectic enough, and the least we can do is have a comfortable working environment. Garages are one of the places that become extremely cold during the winter seasons. A cold garage is not comfortable to work in; neither is it favorable for store equipment, tools, or liquids. You, therefore, need to understand the best way to heat a garage in winter?
Heating your garage provides a warm and conducive workspace, keeps your car at stable temperatures, and prevents work tools from damage. With the several options available, it becomes challenging to settle on the way to heat your garage. Let us discuss how to heat a garage during the cold seasons.
Best Way to Heat Your Garage during winter
To get a perfect method of heating your garage, you need to be very much aware of your needs. Some of the things you need to understand are how cold the garage gets and how much heat output you will need. Heat output is measured using British Thermal Units (BTU).
The size of your garage will also help you to determine the correct heating method. One tip that will help you to keep your garage heated is insulation. Insulation prevents heat produced by other sources from escaping, thus keeping the room warm.
Insulate the windows, doors, walls, and any cracks or holes on the garage foundation. After insulation, you can look for the best way to heat a garage workshop based on your need. Here are the various methods of heating a garage and their pros and cons:
1. Convection Heaters
A convection heater is one of the best methods to heat your garage during the winter season. These heaters produce their heat through convection. Convection heaters are quite versatile since they operate by electricity, propane, or natural gas. This unit warms the air in a top-to-down method.
As the air currents circulate through the unit, hot air flows up, and cold air flows down. Some of the units have a fan that assists in drawing cool air, thus making the process faster. Conventional heaters come in different sizes and forms. They include oil column heaters, central furnace heaters, free-standing fan heaters, and wall-mounted heaters.
Convention heaters are a little expensive compared to other options. However, it may save you some cash in the long run since you will not need a professional to install it. What makes convection heaters outstanding is since they generate heat quickly and effectively. They are also a great choice if you do not need the heat around the clock.
Pros
- They create even temperature throughout the place
- Free-standing heaters are easy to install
- They are virtually silent
- They are more energy efficient
- Do not need ventilation
Cons
- Do not provide heat to enclosed places
- They do not filter air
2. Ductless Heating
Another best heater for the garage is Ductless Heater. Ductless heating is also known as the mini-split heating system. The system features two components. It has a compressor or an outdoor condenser, and an indoor air-handling unit.
The two components are connected through a conduit that houses the tubing, power cable, and drain. It acts as a central heating system. This means that one does not require to connect to the current duct systems or install ductwork. Ductless heating is designed for zoned heating.
Zoned heating means that the system heats a single space separately, thus making it an ideal option for garages. Though you will need some professional help in the installation process, it should not be very expensive. Consider the size of the garage and the best location for installation for unobstructed use and maximum operating efficiency.
The ductless heating system is the most comfortable option for heating your garage. The unit can be suspended from the garage ceiling, mounted on the wall, or set up along the floor. Most of the models come with a remote and are quite easy to control. Some Ductless systems also provide cooling during hot seasons.
Pros
- It is easy to install
- It provides a variety of options for interior design
- It is energy-efficient and versatile
- Environmental friendly
Cons
- Require professional installation
- The filter needs regular cleaning
3. Electric Ceiling Panels
Another awesome garage heating option is the electric ceiling panel. This heating method is mainly used by people who want to make the garage a living or entertainment space. The electric ceiling panels are slim and good-looking. The heaters are mounted on the ceiling, and thus they will not disrupt the design of your garage.
Electric ceiling panels are unobstructive and energy-efficient for a single space such as a garage. This heating method saves you around 33% of the average heating cost. The ceiling panel is also easy to replace compared to the forced air systems. The unit offers you heat without drying out the air in your garage, which can lead to flaky, dry skin, brittle hair, and nosebleeds.
Another great thing about electric ceiling panels is that they heat and cool quickly. Therefore, it is a great choice for anyone who wants a heating option that does not take long to cool after switching it off. The installation process will need a professional experienced in radiant heating.
Pros
- Have great aesthetic
- It is energy efficient
- Easy to install and replace
- Extremely quiet
- Heat and cool faster
Cons
- Applicable where there is a finished ceiling
- The garage floor can be cold as hot air rises
4. Propane Heating
Propane heating is one of the most popular garage heating options. Most people love these heaters since they come as a stand-alone unit or a central heating system. The system is ideal for heating both single spaces and whole-house heating applications. The unit is also flexible, and you can move it from place to place.
Propane heaters can either be put as a single wall unit or a centralized unit. A single-sized unit is ideal for heating small spaces. Propane heaters are extremely energy efficient. It is one of the most cost-effective ways to keep your garage warm and cozy during the winter season.
An amazing thing about propane systems is their ability to fuel appliances like stoves. These units also require less maintenance compared to other heating methods. The initial cost of the propane heater may be on the higher end, but it will save you money eventually.
Pros
- It is cost effective
- Needs less maintenance
- Offer maximum heating efficiency
- There is a variety of options
Cons
- The upfront cost is high
- Needs regular inspection
5. Portable Space Heaters
Portable space heaters are another cost-effective way of maintaining heat in the garage. The haters are inexpensive to buy and do not need any installation. They are also portable, and you can use them in your other rooms. These heaters are sufficient in small workspaces.
Portable space heaters will only heat a small area and not the entire garage. They are, however, a great option if you are working under a budget. When shopping for this type of heater, consider its size, efficiency, safety, and cost. Most of the best heaters have an automatic shut-off feature.
You are, however, advised only to use the space heater when you are around the garage and never to leave it unsupervised. Place the heaters away from clothes, wood, and furniture to avoid fire hazards.
Pros
- They are inexpensive to buy
- Do not need installation
- Energy efficient
- They are portable
- Use less electricity
Cons
- Only ideal for a small space
6. Forced Air Heaters
The forced air unit is one of the cheapest ways to heat a garage UK during winter. These units are powered by natural gas. They produce heat through gas combustion and transfer it around the garage via constant air circulation. Place the heater on one corner of the garage to heat the entire area.
Forces Air heaters are a little noisy due to gas combustion and fan circulation. It is, however, not ideal for anyone who wants a quiet unit. This unit comes in different sizes. Therefore, you will choose the size and power depending on how large your garage is. They work the same as infrared heaters, but they are cheaper.
Forced air units need a professional to join them to the propane line or home gas. It is not suitable for a garage or workshop dealing with woodworking. The forced air will blow debris and dirt around the garage, thus destroying other works, such as paintings.
Pros
- Have efficient power consumption
- Works with natural gas
- It is less expensive
- Can heat large spaces
Cons
- It is noisy
- Need regular maintenance
7. Infrared Heaters
His heaters can be used in place of forced air heating systems. The heaters use a heating tube that provides heat into your garage. They are designed to heat the objects in the garage first. This creates an awesome temperature in the surroundings, thus keeping you warm.
Infrared heaters are diverse, and you can power them using propane, natural gas, or electricity. It is one of the best ways of heating a garage without insulation. When selecting an infrared heater, consider an enclosed tube instead of an exposed heating element for safety purposes.
The other thing to consider is the size of your garage. A large garage will need a powerful infrared heater. You will need an expert to connect the heater to the heating source. On the downside, the heat generated by these heaters is short-lived. Therefore, you cannot shut the unit off if you want the garage to remain warm.
Pros
- Ideal for poorly insulated areas
- They are quiet
- Durable and long-lasting
- Heat spaces quickly
- They maintain the air moisture
Cons
- Their heat does not stay for long after switching off
8. Wood Burning Stove
Are you wondering how to heat a garage cheaply? The wood-burning stove is the most economical way to heat your garage. You can fuel this stove with wood, dry lawn chipping, leaves, fallen twigs, or brush chipping. These units work the same as infrared heaters by heating the area around them.
The wood-burning stove is ideal for heating a single space. A pellet stove is the best way for a clean-burning experience. It burns with compressed wooden pallets. However, this type of wood-burning stove needs some electricity to function, which may increase the fueling cost.
Pros
- The units are economical
- Efficient and can heat a large garage
- They are safe and environment friendly
- The fuel is cheap, sustainable, renewable, and available
Cons
- You may need a permit to install
- Require to remove of ashes between heating sessions
9. Mounted Electric Heaters
These units are suitable for anyone looking for something easy to install and convenient to heat their garage. Mounted electric heaters work the same as space heaters, but they are larger and more powerful. This means that they can heat the entire garage comfortably.
Mounted electric heaters are more suitable for short-term heating. However, they are still powerful enough to run for the whole day, especially during winter. The system is versatile, efficient, and economical to install and operate. You can install the unit by yourself, but if it challenges you, get a professional.
Pros
- Affordable operation and upfront costs
- Easy and safe to operate
- They are small and versatile
- They warm the garage quickly
- More powerful compared to space heaters
Cons
- It takes a little longer to heat large spaces
- Long power cords in the garage
10. In-Floor Heaters
In the past, in-floor heaters were used for bathrooms. However, these days the systems are embraced to heat garages. This heater makes the garage comfortable since they keep the floor warm if you lay or sit on it. You should combine the in-floor heaters with another heating method for optimum garage heating.
Pros
- Keeps the floor warm
- They are energy efficient
- Easy to install
- Do not produce noise
- Offer uniform heating
Cons
- Need to be combined with another method for optimal space heating
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What Is the Most Efficient Way to Heat a Garage?
The most efficient method to heat your garage will depend on your needs. Various heating methods have different features and work best for specific requirements. The best methods to heat a garage are the forced air unit, conventional heaters, ductless heating, and electric ceiling panels.
Ductless heaters are among the most effective methods of garage heating. However, this method is a little more expensive. Another great method is the use of conventional heaters, which are easy to install and energy-efficient. The forced air units are also suitable for large garages but not ideal for workshops with woodworking applications.
Q: How Can I Heat My Garage Cheaply?
The cheapest way of heating your garage is by using wood-burning stoves. These stoves are cheap to buy and also to operate. You can fuel the stoves using wood, dry lawn clippings, leaves, fallen twigs, and brush chippings. These fuels are readily available, cheap, and renewable.
Q: What Kind of Heater Is Best for a Garage?
Conventional heaters and electric space heaters are some of the best ways to heat a garage during the winter season. The heaters come in different brands, types, and features. The best garage heater will depend on your need.
Most electric garage heaters are either 120V or 240V. If you have a big garage, it is crucial to consider a powerful heater. The best electric garage heaters are Dr. Heater, Dr. Infrared portable space heaters, and Fahrenheat electric heaters. The heaters vary in features, so you have to get one that fits your needs.
Q: Are Garage Heaters Worth It?
Most garages get extremely cold during the winter seasons, making them uncomfortable to work in. The best solution to beat the cold during this season is to find a suitable garage heating method. Garage heaters are completely worth it since they give you a comfortable method for working even when it is cold.
Garage heaters also prevent freezing that may cause damage to equipment and appliances in the garage. Some things, such as wood and paint, will get affected when the temperatures are extremely low. If there are rooms on top of the garage, the heaters will help in keeping them warm.
Q: How Do I Keep My Garage Warm In The Winter?
Winter seasons have extremely low temperatures, and it may be impossible to work in a garage without a heater. Some methods you can use to keep your garage warm are conventional heaters, forced-air heaters, ductless heaters, propane heaters, portable space heaters, and infrared heaters.
To keep the heat in the garage, it is advisable to have it insulated. Insulating the garage walls, doors, windows, and ceiling will help to prevent the air produced by heaters from escaping. If your garage is not insulated, consider a heating method that works well with insulated garages, such as infrared heaters.
Q: What Is the Best Temperature for a Garage?
The right temperature of your garage depends on where you live, how you use the garage, and your personal preference. You should, however, ensure that the garage temperature is more than the average dew point. This will prevent condensation in the garage. This temperature is around 65°F in coastal states and 40°F in inland states.
Q: How Much Will It Cost To Heat a Garage Per Month?
The cost of heating a garage depends on various factors. It will depend on the garage size, how often you use the heating option, how long the heater runs after switching it on, and the type of heating method you are using.
Different garage heating methods are powered differently. They are either fueled by propane, gas, electricity, or wood. The cost of these fuels differs; thus, the cost per month will be different. Wood is the cheapest fuel to use among the four. Propane garage heaters use approximately $15 to $25 a month.
Q: Do Garage Heaters Use A Lot Of Electricity?
Electricity consumption of garage heaters varies from one heater to another. Large and powerful garage heaters will consume more electricity compared to small and less powerful ones. If you use the garage heater daily, then the electricity consumption will also increase noticeably.
Final Words:
People working in garages will tell you how uncomfortable it is to work during the winter season. Extreme cold during this season causes damage to the equipment in the garage. Therefore, you need to learn how to heat the garage cheaply. Above, we have discussed the best way to heat a garage in winter.
The garage heating methods above are quite efficient. Some methods will need a professional to install them, while others you can install on your own. To settle for the best way, consider your garage’s size, cost, fuel availability, and heater’s convenience.
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