The 10 Best Propane Garage Heaters

When temperatures drop and heating becomes a requirement in a garage (or some other space), you should get a garage heater that comes from a respected company. Cost-effectiveness and convenience are important, of course, but so is quality.

In our professional opinion, the Dura Heat TT-360 Propane(LP) 360 Degree Tank Top Heater is the best propane garage heater currently on the market.

Propane garage heaters allow you to affordably heat your garage no matter the size of the weather outside. Before deciding if a propane garage heater is right for you, it’s important to do the necessary amount of research on the kind of heater you want to be installed in your garage.

Now, this is important to know. A spark ignites the propane fuel from the tank, and the fuel is heated continuously until it reaches the required temperature. This temperature can be set by the user, by just following the instructions laid out by the manufacturer.

A powerful fan in the heater blows the heated gas outside, creating warmth. As propane fuel is heated, a disposal pipe removes the by-product created by burning the fuel and sends it outside. With vent-free heaters, the heated air remains in the environment and so certain precautionary measures need to be taken.

The 10 Best Propane Garage Heaters:

Below we have listed the 10 best garage propane heaters currently available for sale online. This list will be reviewed and updated regularly.

1. Dura Heat TT-360 Propane(LP) 360 Degree Tank Top Heater

Heat output	40 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up	1 000
Weight	4.87 pounds
Dimension	9.25 x 9.25 x 17.5”
Safety auto shut off	Yes

Although rather industrial looking, this is the ideal heater for your garage and it won’t break the bank. It delivers powerful heat through 360-degrees and can warm up a space up to 1 000 square feet. 

The heater can also be used outdoors but is not great in windy conditions. The build and materials make it tough and durable. It is compact and takes up very little space. Fitting it to your propane tank is quick and easy and the unit is easy to use. One minor drawback is that it lacks an electric start but this is not a major problem for most people. 

The heat level is adjustable according to your needs and there are 3 heat options. It has decent safety features. 

2. Dyna-Glo LP Forced AIR Heater, 300,000 BTU

Heat output	300 000
SQ/f heat up	7 000
Weight	32.6 pounds
Dimension	18.5 x 12.6 x 33.7”
Safety auto shut off	Yes

For even larger cold areas that you need to heat up effectively, this is one to consider. It produces a staggering 300 000 BTU and is capable of heating up an area of as large as 7 000 square feet. It is also ideal for outdoor use. If you wish to have it mounted permanently is has a heavy-duty mounting. This will also allow you to position the heater for ideal heat distribution. 

The unit is super easy to use and after-sales service is good. It is well made from quality materials so has good durability. Thanks to the variable BTU control dial you can get the exact heat needed for your comfort. Safety features have not been neglected and despite the power, this is a perfectly safe propane garage heater.

3. Camco 57331 Olympian Wave-3 3000 BTU LP Gas Catalytic Heater

Heat output	3 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up	100
Weight	6.89 pounds
Dimension	5 x 12 x 15”
Safety auto shut off	Yes

This is a compact and attractive heater that works with great efficiency. It uses low-pressure gas to create waves of soothing heat. It is portable but can also be wall-mounted if you prefer. Although it does not put out a huge amount of heat it is great for smaller garages or areas. It is effective for areas up to 100 square feet. 

It operates silently so will not disturb anyone with noise. The Camco 57331 has an attractive design and is well made from quality materials. It has all the safety features you would expect from an indoor propane heater. 

A Piezo electric starter makes it easy to get going and it is a user-friendly device. You can adjust the heat according to your needs, from 1 600 to 3 000 BTU. This versatile heater can be used in a range of environments and is popular as a secondary source of heat. 

This is a quality heater that receives a lot of positive feedback from happy customers. 

4. Pro-Temp 40,000 BTU Propane Forced Air Heater

Heat output	40 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up	1 000
Weight	11.2 pounds
Dimension	20 x 11 x 15 inches
Safety auto shut off	Yes

This is a compact and extremely versatile heater that will keep you warm in many environments. You can adjust it to accurately direct the heat wherever it is needed and the forced air is fast and effective. You can easily heat an area as large as 1 000 square feet. 

The steel casing makes this highly durable and it is built to last. An integrated Piezo ignition makes starting it a breeze. Choose from 1 of 3 heat settings for the ideal warmth and minimal propane wastage. The unit is light and portable so can be taken with you as you need warmth.  

Safety features are good and although the blower makes a bit of noise it is not as loud as one would expect from such a powerful device. Another advantage is that the Pro-Temp 40,000 is affordable. 

This model is also available in 60 000 and 150 000 BTU options. 

5. ProCom PCC80V Propane Convection Heater, 80,000 BTU

Heat output	80 000 BTU
SQ/f heat up	1 900
Weight	12.8 pounds
Dimension	16 x 16 x 12”
Safety auto shut off	Yes

If you are looking for an exceptionally powerful heater for a large garage or other areas this compact propane heater is a great option. It delivers an impressive 80 000 BTU and will let you warm a space up to 1 900 square feet. Another advantage is that it will spread the heat through 360-degrees to effectively warm the entire area. 

It is not as compact as some less powerful options but is far from bulky. It has a smart modern design that most people enjoy. The push-button starter will fire it up for instant and convenient warmth. The heater is well made from quality materials and should give you good heat for many years. 

The heater is safe and easy to use and comes with everything you need to get going. It offers excellent value for money. 

6. Heatstar F125545 Overhead Propane Garage Heater

Now the Heatstar may not be the greatest looking garage heater out there, but very few can match its functionality. First of all, it meets all the certifications and guidelines out there. Next, it’s made of durable aluminum, making it light, while still being great at its job.

Now, if you’re worried (and proud) because you have a big garage, that won’t be an issue. The Heatstar can heat up between 500 to 600 square feet, which is essentially the size of two and a half average garages.

Also, it has very simple thermostatic controls, so you won’t have any hassle when trying to get the temperature just right.

7. Mr. Heater MH40LP BTU Propane Garage Heater

The Mr. Heater line of propane heaters is one of the best on the market. They literally can do no wrong. But now, what makes this thing so special? First, it lets off infrared heat, meaning that it’s very efficient and radiates throughout the whole area, no matter how big it is.

And here is the best part – it covers up to one thousand square feet, making it perfect even for the largest garages out there. Now, another great feature is that it’s very easy to maintain, and by that we mean, you don’t, at all. Since it has no moving parts, this quality product requires no maintenance on your part.

8. Modine HD45AS0111 Propane Garage Heater

Now, this heavy-duty heater is certified for residential, industrial and commercial usage, so there is no place where you can’t put it to good use. Now, another great feature, that really makes it stick out, is that this garage heater is very quiet.

So, no matter if you’re using it at your shop, or at home, you won’t even notice it’s there (or at least, you won’t hear it). Furthermore, while this heater is powerful (having a 45000 BTU output), it has a standard power exhaust, so it’s really easy to place and connect to a smaller and more compact vent system.

9. Heatstar By Enerco F160550 Heatstar Propane Garage Heater

Another Heatstar unit, this one packs quite the punch. Having a ton of power (namely fifty thousand BTUs per hour), it can heat up a garage that is 750 square feet large. Not only that, this hefty heater has a spark ignition system with a self-diagnostic control module, making it quite user-friendly and allowing for a lot of heat and temperature customization options.

It also has 2 angle brackets, making it quite convenient since it can be mounted on a ceiling. Finally, another convenient part is that it’s actually designed to accommodate a low ceiling since it has a low profile design.

10. Mr. Heater MH80CV 80,000 BTU Propane Garage Heater

This heater is pure power. It may even be overkill, and so it’s not higher on the list, but for those who need it, they will know exactly why they got it.

This heater has an insane 80,000 BTU power output. It can heat up to 1900 square feet and is perfect for those of you working in huge garage workshops and auto-repair shops.

However, you must keep in mind that this monstrosity has adequate combustion and ventilation, or there could be trouble. It also radiates heat in 360 degrees, covering the entirety of the area where it’s placed.

Vented vs Ventless Propane Garage Heaters

Unvented Heating

An un-vented heating apparatus, i.e. – a vent-free heater is basically exactly what its name implies. This heater has no pollutant-disposal vent and is placed in the space that you want to warm up.

The advantage of this system is that no heat is lost making it reliant and economical. Many unvented heaters are cheap to acquire and do not depend on electric power. The heating process is quiet and convenient.

However, it has one issue. It pollutes the environment and causes more carbon-monoxide gas, because of its lack of a proper ventilation system. Oxygen levels are minimized and inhaling this gas too much can cause fatigue and even death

Vented Heating

With vented heating, disposal combustion waste is managed and expelled outside the heated area. This system is convenient and safe. Oxygen levels are maintained making it a little bit more expensive to install and run.

Expensive heaters with oxygen sensors make the system efficient and friendly. This is the main difference, all caused by its dedicated ventilation system.

Ventilation Requirements

Ventilation is one of the basic requirements when putting up a propane heater for your garage. The first thing is to consider what sub-type of heater you are getting – with or without a ventilation system. When using vented heaters, additional work and expenses are required.

These types of heaters require a vent pipe that takes care of the gasses that come up after combustion has taken place. They are much safer and cleaner. Vent-free heaters are also convenient since all you have to do is open garage windows so you can get a sufficient flow of oxygen into the garage.

Carbon monoxide is released when combustion takes place so venting should be done accordingly. As long as the carbon monoxide doesn’t build up in the place where you are using your heater, you will be good to go.

Propane Garage Heater Types

Radiant

These heaters have reflective panels that maximize and direct the heat. They are silent and do not blow air. They come in a range of sizes and a good option for heating a garage. 

Convection

Convention heaters usually have an enclosed flame and use an element to transfer heat to the room. They can take a bit longer to warm up but give safe, consistent heat and might save a bit on propane costs in the long run. 

Forced

Forced heaters to work quickly and effectively by using hot air to distribute the heat. They can be ideal for larger areas. The downside is that some of them can be quite noisy and they will create a bit of wind. If you are working in the garage this may be an issue. 

Mounted vs Portable Propane Garage Heaters

The advantage of considering portable heaters is due to their adaptability to a different environment like outdoor camping. Wall-mounted heaters are more expensive but come with added advantages.

There are basically two options for propane garage heaters. Some heaters will require temporary fixtures while others will hook permanently into the wall, connected to a propane tank just near it or outside the garage.

The garage size should be the main factor here. Every heater’s effective performance varies greatly depending on the heat to square foot ratio. The type of installation should be the next important factor.

A wall-mounted propane heater should be perfectly aligned with the exact spot where heat is needed most, whereas a portable propane heater should be purchased with a guarantee to heat a given area. The garage should also be kept clean and dust-free to allow for good air circulation.

What to consider when purchasing Propane Garage Heaters

The span of your heater relies upon the size of the garage that needs to be heated. Wider garages consume more BTU (British Thermal Units) while smaller garages, of course, consume less.

The heater ought to have a thermostatic controller to keep the heating temperature leveled once a certain degree is achieved. The oxygen sensor in garage heaters is likewise a necessity, as it will turn down the heat if oxygen levels go too low. You should make as much room as possible for your heater, and try to keep it unobstructed by random clutter.

Pros

1. The system is very efficient, powerful, and independent because it depends on boilers once fixed correctly
2. Most Heaters have flexible louvers to help administer warm air where you require it most. The louvers make the heater reliable and spread heat exactly to the desired sport without wasting time before the heat is spread all over the entire garage.
3. Propane garage heaters are 35% less economical when compared to other heating systems like electricity and kerosene.
4. Durability is a factor as well. The heaters are well built and galvanized to avoid corrosion and wear, and high-quality paint is applied to give a durable perfect finish.

Cons

1. Propane garage heaters require more maintenance and administration compared to other heating systems.
2. Dangerous exhaust fumes can enter the garage if the system is not vented appropriately and in a timely manner.
3. Clearance necessities must be met if a fire breaks out. You must make sure ignitable materials stay far from the unit heating system.
4. The heaters fan  radiates huge volumes of air especially when adjusted to the limit hence creating dust in the garage when dust particles are brown violently
5. The garage should remain clean to avoid tampering with the system.

Propane Space Heater Safety

There are three main safety features a propane heater should have:

High temp cutoff

If the unit gets too hot to operate safely it should automatically shut down. 

Tip/topple cutoff

When the heater is bumped, blown, or knocked over, it should immediately shut down to prevent any accidents or safety risks. 

Oxygen Depletion sensor

If operating incorrectly or without any ventilation, oxygen could be depleted. This is a dangerous situation and the heater should have an oxygen depletion sensor to prevent this. 

General Safety Measures

• Portable heaters should not be operated while in deep sleep, this can bring accidents, in case the heater‘s operations fail.
• Never work the heaters close to any combustible fluid or gasses. Keep all combustible or ignitable substances far from the heater.
• The propane tanks should not be exposed to excessive heat, this may lead to an explosion
• For portable heaters always attach and detach the system outdoors where the air is sufficient in case the operations of the heater fail
• In case you smell a propane leak, it’s always safe to switch off all appliances in the area.
• Disconnect gas pipes and valves if surrounding temperatures drop beneath -10° F and if the propane tank is empty. This can cause unstable system combustion. Blocked gas pipes or nozzles should be replaced to avoid explosion risk. Lastly, keep propane amenities out of reach of unauthorized personnel and kids.

Is it safe to heat a garage with propane?

Garage propane heaters are designed to be used indoors and have a number of safety features to reduce the risk of using them. Provided you have some ventilation, follow instructions, and use them correctly, they are perfectly safe to use in a garage. 

Can I also use my propane heater for the garage for warming the whole house?

A: Your garage heater can be used in other parts of the house but many of them do not look extremely attractive. They can heat rooms in the house but will not be effective in warming the entire house. 

How much propane does a garage heater use?

This will depend on the heater type (see above) as well as the power or  BTUs it produces. Most have 2 or 3 heat settings so it also depends on the setting used. Propane is an effective and economical way to warm a garage. 

Conclusion

Propane heaters have been successfully utilized for decades now. With only a few things to worry about and the occasional refill, the system works efficiently saving you a lot of money. They are also much more efficient when compared to old-school electric heaters (fortunately new technology has since been developed). Also, fuel is relatively cheap and is readily available.

Garage heaters vary, and its best to consult a certified and trustworthy engineer, as well as follow all preparatory and operating measures. You will definitely be blown away after installing this system. Always remember to allow some ventilation into your garage.

Now that it’s obvious that propane is the most convenient fuel for your garage, following manufacturer’s guidelines will help you make the most out of your heater. Many propane heaters offer adjustable heat control settings that fit each individual comfort while operating the machine and also utilizing small garage space alignment.