I Tested And Reviewed 7 Best Electric Space Heater For Garage (2023)
As winter approaches and temperatures start to drop, many homeowners find themselves needing a way to warm up their garages. An electric space heater can provide an efficient and affordable heating solution for this large, uninsulated area. But with so many space heaters on the market, how do you choose the right one for your garage?
When shopping for the best electric space heater for your garage, there are a few key factors to consider. First, look at the power output and heating capacity. Garages tend to be much larger than other rooms in your home, so you'll need a space heater powerful enough to warm the entire area. Consider something in the 5,000 to 10,000 BTU range.
Safety features are also important when using a space heater in a garage since this room often contains flammable materials like paints and gasoline. Look for units with tip-over and overheat protection. An auto shut-off will turn the heater off if it gets knocked over or reaches unsafe temperatures.
You'll also want to think about convenience features. Many models include built-in thermostats and timers so you can customize the temperature and operating schedule. Some higher end electric garage heaters even come with remote controls or WiFi connectivity for controlling the unit from your smartphone.
Ready to make your garage nice and toasty this winter? Choosing the best electric garage heater takes some consideration – but getting the right match for your needs will keep you comfortable all season long.
7 Best Electric Space Heater For Garage
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1
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The product is ideal for heating small to medium-sized garages or workshops efficiently and effectively.
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2
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The product is ideal for heating garages, workshops, and warehouses quickly with adjustable thermostat settings.
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3
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The product is ideal for quickly heating indoor spaces such as offices, homes, garages, and bedrooms.
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4
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The product is ideal for heating large commercial spaces such as shops, garages, and warehouses.
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5
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The product is ideal for heating shop garages or similar spaces using a hardwired, wall/ceiling mounted electric heater with remote controlled thermostat.
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6
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The product is ideal for providing quick and efficient heating in office, home, garage, and workshop spaces.
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7
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The product is ideal for providing adjustable heat in small spaces while ensuring safety measures.
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1. Dyna-Glo Dual Power 15,000w Electric Garage Heater, Black
The Dyna Glo heater is highly reliable and efficient. Users have reported impressive results after upgrading from lower wattage units. It is capable of heating a 3 car uninsulated garage in the Midwest to a comfortable temperature even on a 20-degree day. Although it needs to run all day to achieve the desired temperature, the investment is worth it for those who have tasks to complete in the dead of winter.
Installation is straightforward, requiring a 60 Amp breaker and heavy enough wire. Even in an uninsulated garage, the heater has no trouble warming up the space. Users have also noted that it operates quietly, ensuring a comfortable working environment. While the impact on the electric bill may vary, occasional usage seems to have a reasonable effect.
For larger spaces, such as a 30x48x12 shop, the 15000W heater performs exceptionally well. It efficiently heats the area, even in temperatures as low as the low 20s. Users with pole buildings and wrap insulation have praised the heater for its excellent performance.
It is important to note that appropriate wiring is crucial for optimal performance. Wiring the heater with #6 wire is recommended, as #10 wire may overheat and cause the 60 Amp breaker to trip.
2. Homeleader Etl Portable Radiant Heater: Perfect For Indoors!
I recently purchased this space heater to combat the skyrocketing gas bills that have been causing me distress. With gas bills reaching as high as $1000, I couldn't afford to heat my entire home anymore. This heater came to my rescue by comfortably heating a 12 x 12 room in no time.
One of the things I love about this heater is its simplicity. It doesn't have any complicated circuit boards that can burn out, making it easy to operate. The controls are as straightforward as a kitchen countertop toaster. It features a main power switch with a power on light, a wattage switch for normal or fast heating, and a large thermostat knob for automatic control. Additionally, it has a tip-over cutoff sensor for safety, which I tested and found to be effective.
The heater also has a quiet fan inside that helps distribute the heated air, ensuring the room is warm and cozy. The power cord is long enough and of high quality, capable of handling the electrical load. The construction of the unit is attractive and the price is reasonable, making it a highly recommended option.
While the startup of the heater may be a bit noisy, it quickly makes up for it by heating the room instantly. It works exceptionally well, and the only minor issue I've encountered is that the surface where the heater is placed can get quite warm. Although it hasn't caused any damage to my floors or stand, it's something to be cautious of.
During the initial use, I noticed a slight chemical smell, but it dissipated after running the heater outside for an hour. Now, there is no smell whatsoever. It heats up rapidly and effectively warms up my living room. Even with the temperature dropping to 32 degrees outside, the inside remains toasty. As someone without central heat and air, this little heater does an impressive job.
I appreciate that the heater offers two settings, with the higher setting providing a decent amount of heat. The lower setting is ideal for smaller rooms, and the thermostat can be adjusted to turn off the heater once the desired temperature is reached. It also includes safety features such as an alarm and automatic shut-off when tipped over, ensuring peace of mind.
3. Jasun Radiant Space Heater – Fast, Portable, Adjustable
I am absolutely in love with this portable heater. It has become an essential part of my home, especially for my dog. She has grown accustomed to it and will eagerly cozy up near the heater whenever she feels the need for some warmth. The heater works efficiently and quickly, effectively warming up my house during the colder months. I only wish I had purchased it sooner.
One of the standout features of this heater is its unbeatable price. It boasts a sturdy all-metal construction reminiscent of heaters from the good old days. The fan-forced heat comes with two convenient settings and an adjustable thermostat, allowing for customizable comfort. Despite its powerful performance, the heater operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful environment.
Last winter, my room was consistently chilly, prompting me to invest in a small, noiseless heater. This heater has exceeded my expectations. Assembling the unit was a breeze, and as soon as I turned it on, I immediately felt the transformation in my cold room. It felt as if the room was engulfed in a gentle, comforting fire.
One of the standout qualities of this heater is its remarkable speed in heating up. Its compact size allows me to place it anywhere, and within a mere 15 minutes, it effectively warms up my kids' room, which measures approximately 11' by 14'. This remarkable performance makes the price of the heater absolutely worth it.
UPDATE #2: I have recently received a replacement for my faulty item, and I am pleased to report that the replacement is a vast improvement. The heater operates quietly, heats up rapidly, and remains functional for extended periods. It efficiently warms up my living room, and now that I have a properly functioning product, I can confidently recommend it to others.
UPDATE: Unfortunately, I encountered some issues with the initial heater I purchased. It would not stay on for more than a minute and a half. Additionally, the noise it produced was quite loud and resembled a cacophony of metal rattling around. Despite its quick heating capabilities, the distracting noise made it impractical for use in my house. On the bright side, assembling the heater was a simple task, with the legs easily sliding onto the bottom of the unit. For added stability, screws are included for those who prefer to secure the legs with them.
4. Dr. Heater Dr966 240-Volt Hardwired Shop Garage Commercial Heater, 3000-Watt/6000-Watt, Dr966 240v
I recently installed this heater in my garage and I must say, it works exceptionally well. Initially, I decided not to directly connect the heater to the breaker panel and instead opted for a 10-3 power cord with a 30 Amp lockable plug. I also purchased around 10 feet of 3/4 conduit and ran 10-2 wire to a box with a 30 Amp receptacle and cover plate attached. To ensure proper functionality, I used a double pole 30 amp breaker, as the heater has the capability to draw 3000 watts on low and 6000 watts on high.
While the instructions provided with the heater were quite terrible, they did suggest using a 35 Amp breaker with 8-2 wire, which is thicker and more expensive. However, after consulting with others who had previously installed this heater, I decided to stick with the 30 Amp breaker and 10-2 wire, which seemed to be the recommended setup. I have not experienced any false trips of the breaker and everything is working as it should.
This heater has made a significant difference in my garage, maintaining a comfortable temperature of 70-75 degrees, even when the outside temperature was a chilly 30 degrees. I purchased all the necessary accessories from a big box store and spent approximately $70. I have included some pictures to show how easy it is to install yourself. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most difficult to install, I would rate the installation process as a 4. However, if you have no prior experience with electrical work or dealing with 240 volts, I highly recommend hiring a certified electrician for safety purposes.
After reading through several reviews, I noticed that some people are using 10 gauge wire with a 30 Amp two-pole breaker and claim that it works fine. However, to err on the side of caution, I followed the manufacturer's directions and installed the required 8 gauge wire and a 35 Amp two-pole breaker. During my testing, I used a digital clamp meter and found that the running amps on high were approximately 25 Amps. However, during startup, which includes the fan kicking in, there was a brief spike of up to 32.5 Amps. This is likely why the manufacturer recommends the use of 8 gauge wire and a 35 Amp breaker. While I am not an electrician, I believe it is safer to adhere to the directions provided.
5. Shoprev Electric Heater – Ultimate 7500w Remote Thermostat
I highly recommend this heater and the company that supplies it. From the moment I installed the heater, I experienced excellent customer service. When I encountered a problem with the heater shutting down after a few minutes on high, the manufacturer's customer support team promptly assisted me. They suggested changing the circuit board, which they promptly shipped to me within three days. Unfortunately, the circuit board did not resolve the issue. However, when I contacted them again, they immediately shipped me a new unit, which arrived within three days. The new heater works perfectly, providing ample heat and operating quietly on both high and low settings. I must say that the level of service I received from this company exceeded my expectations.
Now that I have everything set up, I am thoroughly enjoying this heater. My garage is 20 feet by 20 feet with 9-foot ceilings, and I have insulated and drywalled exterior walls as well as an insulated garage door. I used a BTU calculator to determine the appropriate size heater for my garage's cubic footage, and this model fit the bill perfectly. During its initial run, the temperature in the garage rose from 40 to 75 degrees in less than 30 minutes. I followed the recommended placement guidelines, positioning the heater away from walls and other objects. It hangs from M10 bolts attached to the brackets that support the garage door. While installation was a bit challenging, it was not impossible. There are a few things I wish I had known beforehand. The conduit knockout on the back of the heater's box is quite large, with a 1-inch trade size. Once flexible conduit is in place, it becomes difficult to wire the 16AWG thermostat wires to the small wire inserts in the contactor and secure them with retaining screws. The contactor is located directly behind the knockout. To overcome this, I removed the conduit and wired two small 6-inch sections of 16AWG wire into the contactor's wire inserts when there was sufficient space. Afterward, I reinserted the conduit with the five wires (two 8AWG supply, one 10AWG ground, two 16AWG thermostat) and connected the thermostat wires to the small 6-inch sections using yellow wire nuts.
It is worth noting that any 240V-rated thermostat can be used to control the heater. Personally, I opted for a Honeywell CT410B thermostat, which I connected to the heater using a 25-foot span of lamp wire originating from the same junction box that powers the heater. I wired the leads from the heater's contactor to the thermostat's L1/T1 wires, disregarding color coding, and left the L2/T2 wires disconnected. L1/T1 controls the switch from the thermostat, while L2/T2 always remains hot. I strongly recommend using an external thermostat as the heater's internal thermostat displayed a temperature reading of 90+ degrees while the room was only 65 degrees. The thermostat, although it requires 240V potential, does not need to handle current flow. It essentially functions as a high-voltage, low-current signal wire. Therefore, you can use 16AWG low-current wire to connect it. Any 240V-rated thermostat should work well, and there is no need to use thick line-level wires.
6. Hetr Portable Ceramic Space Heater: Efficient & Safe
The heater is compact yet powerful, providing efficient heat even from a distance of 5 feet. It effectively heated the entire living room within a few hours, to the point where the user had to turn it off due to becoming too hot. However, it should be noted that this heater is not suitable for larger spaces such as garages.
The reviewer purchased a refurbished unit, which arrived in new condition and performed exceptionally well. The heater operates quietly while delivering ample heat. Considering the affordable price of $50, it is considered great value for money.
In terms of design, this heater is smaller than the previous one the reviewer owned, but the size of the fan and heating element remains similar. The smaller dimensions actually enhance the airflow efficiency. The overall construction of the heater is sturdy and well-made, with high-quality switches and hardware.
The reviewer emphasizes that this heater is best used as a personal heater rather than for heating open spaces. They place it close to their chair, allowing the heat to surround them while they work on their computer. Despite its small size, the heater still outputs 1500 watts of power, making it a suitable replacement for larger units.
Furthermore, the compact size of the heater makes it perfect for specific applications, such as drying ceramics in a small room. The reviewer appreciates the ability to leave it running for extended periods without worrying about overheating.
7. Comfort Zone Milkhouse Style Portable Utility Heater
I recently purchased the heater and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. I have a 100 sq ft greenhouse and I rely on this heater to keep my plants and vegetable seedlings happy during the winter months. Even during the coldest nights, with temperatures dropping as low as 11 degrees F, this heater managed to maintain a comfortable temperature of 48 degrees F inside the greenhouse. I was pleasantly surprised by its efficiency, as it was only running at about 75% of its heating capacity.
What sets this heater apart from others I have tried in the past is its reliability. I have had bad experiences with other heaters getting clogged with dust and becoming inefficient, but this one does not have that problem. Additionally, I appreciate the fact that it does not have any red hot elements that could potentially set fires.
I live in a drafty cabin at 10,000 feet without heat, and this heater has made a significant difference in keeping the place warm. Previously, I had been using ceramic heaters and stove burners, but they were not as efficient and would often get clogged with dust. This heater, however, has proven to be much more reliable and efficient.
One feature that I particularly like is the thermostat. I can set it just a couple of degrees above freezing and not have to worry about a frozen pump in my well house. This has been a game-changer for us, as we used to have days without water due to freezing temperatures. We also use this heater in our greenhouse, and it has been a lifesaver for our plants. We even keep extras on hand to ensure that we never have to worry about being without water or having dead plants.
FAQs
Are there any energy-efficient electric space heaters available for garages?
Yes, there are energy-efficient electric space heaters available for garages. One option is to look for space heaters that are specifically designed for garages or workshops. These heaters are usually equipped with features that make them suitable for larger spaces and provide efficient heating.
Look for models that have a high energy efficiency rating (such as Energy Star certified heaters) and adjustable thermostat settings to control the temperature based on your needs. Additionally, consider heaters with built-in safety features like tip-over protection and overheat protection.
It's also worth exploring infrared heaters, which are known for their energy efficiency as they directly heat objects and people in the room rather than wasting energy on heating the air. Overall, conducting thorough research and comparing the energy efficiency ratings of different models will help you find an energy-efficient electric space heater for your garage.
Are there any noise considerations with electric space heaters for garages?
Yes, there are noise considerations with electric space heaters for garages. While electric space heaters are generally quieter than other types of heaters such as gas or oil, they still produce some level of noise. The noise can come from the fan or the heating elements within the heater.
However, the noise level can vary depending on the specific model and its design.
To minimize the noise from electric space heaters in garages, you can consider a few options:
1. Look for heaters specifically designed for quiet operation. Some models are built with noise-reducing features such as insulated cabinets or whisper-quiet fans.
2. Position the heater away from areas where the noise may be more noticeable, such as near workstations or living spaces.
3. Use soundproofing materials in the garage, such as acoustic panels or insulation, to help absorb and reduce the noise.
4. Regularly clean and maintain the heater to ensure optimal performance and minimize any potential rattling or buzzing noises.
It's also important to note that noise levels can be subjective, so what may be considered quiet for one person may be perceived as loud by another. Therefore, it's recommended to read reviews and consider the noise factor when selecting an electric space heater for your garage.
Are there any safety considerations or precautions to take when using an electric space heater in a garage?
Yes, there are several safety considerations and precautions to take when using an electric space heater in a garage. First and foremost, it is important to ensure that the space heater is specifically designed for use in a garage and has the necessary safety features such as overheat protection and a tip-over switch.
Additionally, it is crucial to keep flammable materials and liquids away from the heater to prevent any potential fire hazards. Make sure there is ample clearance around the heater and avoid placing it near any combustible objects.
It is advisable to plug the space heater directly into a grounded outlet and avoid using extension cords, as they can overheat and increase the risk of fire. Regularly inspect the cord for any fraying or damage and replace it if necessary.
Furthermore, it is essential to never leave the space heater unattended and to turn it off when you leave the garage or go to bed. It is also recommended to have a smoke detector and a fire extinguisher in the garage for added safety.
By following these safety considerations and precautions, you can minimize the risks associated with using an electric space heater in a garage and ensure a safer environment.
Are there any specific features to look for in an electric space heater for a garage, such as thermostat control or timer settings?
When choosing an electric space heater for your garage, there are several features that you may want to consider. One important feature is thermostat control, which allows you to set and maintain a specific temperature in your garage. This can help ensure optimal comfort and prevent overheating.
Another useful feature is a timer setting, which allows you to schedule when the heater turns on and off. This can be particularly handy if you want to preheat your garage before you use it or if you want the heater to automatically shut off after a certain period of time.
Additionally, safety features such as tip-over protection and overheat protection are crucial to prevent accidents and ensure the heater's longevity. It is also worth considering the heater's power output, size, and noise level to ensure it meets your specific needs.
Ultimately, the features you prioritize will depend on your preferences and requirements.
Can an electric space heater be used as the sole heating source for a garage during winter?
An electric space heater can be used as the sole heating source for a garage during winter, but there are a few factors to consider. First, you need to ensure that the heater's power output is sufficient to heat the entire garage adequately.
Garage sizes vary, so it's important to choose a heater with enough wattage or BTU to match the square footage of your garage.
Additionally, you should consider the insulation of the garage. If the garage is well-insulated, the space heater will be more effective in maintaining a comfortable temperature. On the other hand, if the garage is poorly insulated, the heater may struggle to provide sufficient warmth, leading to higher energy consumption and potential safety risks.
It's also essential to follow safety guidelines when using a space heater, such as keeping flammable objects away, using it on a stable surface, and turning it off when unattended. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the heater and checking for any damaged parts, is crucial for safe and efficient operation.
In summary, an electric space heater can be used as the primary heating source for a garage, but it's important to consider factors like the heater's power, garage insulation, and safety measures. If your garage is large or poorly insulated, it may be more effective to explore other heating options, such as a dedicated garage heater or HVAC system.
Can an electric space heater be used in a garage without proper insulation?
Yes, an electric space heater can be used in a garage without proper insulation, but it may not be as effective or efficient as it would be in a well-insulated space. Without proper insulation, the heat generated by the space heater will quickly dissipate, resulting in a loss of warmth.
Additionally, the cold air from outside can easily enter the garage, making it challenging to maintain a comfortable temperature.
To maximize the effectiveness of an electric space heater in a garage without insulation, you can take a few steps. Firstly, ensure that the garage is well-sealed to minimize drafts and cold air infiltration.
You can use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and walls. Secondly, consider using additional insulation methods such as insulating curtains, foam boards, or insulation panels to help retain the heat generated by the space heater.
Lastly, operating the space heater on a lower setting for a longer duration can help maintain a more consistent temperature in the garage.
However, it's important to note that using any type of heater in a poorly insulated garage can be less efficient and potentially unsafe. It's recommended to consult with a professional or consider improving the insulation of the garage for better heating efficiency and safety.
Can an electric space heater effectively heat a large garage?
An electric space heater can be effective in heating a large garage, but it may not be the most efficient option. The heating capacity of an electric space heater is limited, and it may struggle to adequately warm a large space like a garage.
Additionally, electric space heaters can consume a significant amount of electricity, which can result in high energy bills.
If you're looking to heat a large garage, it may be more practical to explore other heating options. For instance, a gas-powered heater or a radiant heater specifically designed for garages may be more suitable.
These types of heaters generally have higher heating capacities and can distribute heat more evenly throughout the space.
Before making a decision, it's crucial to consider factors such as insulation, ventilation, and the specific size of the garage. Consulting with a heating professional would be advisable to determine the most effective and efficient heating solution for your particular garage.
How much power does an electric space heater for a garage typically consume?
The power consumption of an electric space heater for a garage can vary depending on its size and wattage rating. Typically, electric space heaters for garages range from 1,500 to 5,000 watts. To determine the power consumption, you can check the wattage rating mentioned on the heater itself or in its product specifications.
For example, a 1,500-watt electric space heater will consume 1.5 kilowatts (kW) of power per hour when running continuously. If you use the heater for 6 hours a day, it will consume 9 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity in a day.
To calculate the energy consumption cost, you can multiply the total kWh by your electricity provider's rate per kilowatt-hour.
However, it's important to note that energy consumption may vary depending on the heater's settings, insulation of the garage, and outdoor temperature. It is recommended to use energy-efficient models and consider insulation improvements to reduce energy consumption and costs.
What are the benefits of using an electric space heater in a garage?
Using an electric space heater in a garage offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides immediate heat, allowing you to warm up your garage quickly during cold weather. This is especially useful if you spend a significant amount of time in the garage, whether it's for working on projects, exercising, or simply using it as a storage space.
Secondly, electric space heaters are generally safer to use in enclosed spaces like garages compared to other heating options such as propane or kerosene heaters. They do not produce harmful fumes, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Additionally, electric heaters do not require ventilation, making them more convenient and safer to use.
Furthermore, electric space heaters are energy efficient, allowing you to save on heating costs. Many models have adjustable temperature settings, timers, and thermostats, enabling you to control the heat output and conserve energy when not needed.
Lastly, electric space heaters are portable, giving you the flexibility to move them around as needed. This is particularly beneficial in a garage where you may have different areas or workstations that require varying levels of heat.
What is the ideal wattage for an electric space heater in a garage?
The ideal wattage for an electric space heater in a garage depends on various factors such as the size of the garage, insulation, and desired temperature. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have a heater with a wattage of around 10-15 watts per square foot of space.
For example, if your garage is 200 square feet, a heater with a wattage of 2000-3000 watts would be suitable. This wattage range should provide sufficient heat to warm up the space efficiently. However, if your garage is poorly insulated or located in an extremely cold climate, you may want to consider a higher wattage heater to compensate for the heat loss.
It's important to note that safety should be a priority when selecting an electric space heater for a garage. Make sure to choose a heater with built-in safety features like overheat protection and tip-over shut-off.
Additionally, consider consulting with a professional or referring to the manufacturer's guidelines for specific recommendations based on your garage's conditions.