To help you find the ideal heating solution, we’ve rigorously tested a range of gas and electric garage heaters in real-world home garage settings. Our evaluation focused on key aspects like setup ease, heating performance, and features. Coupled with expert insights from Fournier, this guide will walk you through the top garage heater options available today.
Our Top Picks for Garage Heaters
To make your selection process easier, here are our top recommendations based on our hands-on testing and expert consultation, catering to different needs and garage sizes.
Best Overall Garage Heater:
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater at Amazon
Best Propane Garage Heater:
Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater at Amazon
Best Garage Heater for Large Spaces:
Briza Infrared Electric Heater at Amazon
Best Ceiling Mounted Garage Heater:
Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater at Amazon
Best Hybrid Garage Heater:
Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater at Amazon
Best Electric Garage Heater:
Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater at Amazon
Compare the Best Garage Heaters
| :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/mr-heater-f274830-mh18brv-big-buddy-propane-heater-4be4291177994784b2e491b83d77bdbf.jpg) 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 sq ft | Full Review |
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| :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/mr-heater-mh60qfav-60000-btu-portable-propane-forced-air-heater-977b5acb2f8c419e8e836dccb52ed887.jpg) Best Propane Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater | Best Propane: Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater | View on Amazon | Price | $93 | Power Source | Propane | Max Heat Output | 60,000 BTUs | Installation Options | Portable | Dimensions | 15.98 x 8.82 x 13.5 inches | Room Size | 1,500 sq ft | Full Review |
| :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/briza-infrared-patio-heater-ac3b9c830cd946bba6bafc8b4667acd1.jpg) Best for Large Garages Briza Infrared Electric Heater | Best for Large Garages: Briza Infrared Electric Heater | View on Amazon | Price | $99 | Power Source | Corded Electric | Max Heat Output | 1,500 Watts | Installation Options | Wall, ceiling, or tripod | Dimensions | 35.5 x 4 x 4 inches | Room Size | 1,000 sq ft | Full Review |
| :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/comfort-zone-cz260er-ceiling-mount-heater-59e01dd1a03341a6a618ee863ad16774.jpg) Best Ceiling Mounted Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater | Best Ceiling Mounted: Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater | View on Amazon | Price | $290 | Power Source | Hardwired Electric | Max Heat Output | 10,000 Watts | Installation Options | Ceiling | Dimensions | 17.88 x 14 x 14.5 inches | Room Size | 1,500 sq ft | Full Review |
| :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/dewalt-68000-btu-hybrid-portable-heater-d4fda7d1aef14e769c0089a8b9f118e2.jpg) Best Hybrid Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater | Best Hybrid: Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater | View on Amazon | Price | $212 | Power Source | Propane, corded electric, or battery | Max Heat Output | 68,000 BTUs | Installation Options | Portable | Dimensions | 20 x 13 x 17 inches | Room Size | 1,700 sq ft | Full Review |
| :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/heat-storm-hs-1500-phx-wifi-infrared-heater-ed4ac4441e52481395d399dd4b754a96.jpg) Best Electric Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater | Best Electric: Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater | View on Amazon | Price | $81 | Power Source | Corded Electric | Max Heat Output | 1,500 Watts | Installation Options | Wall and portable | Dimensions | 4 x 19 x 16 inches | Room Size | 150 sq ft | Full Review |
Best Overall Garage Heater
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
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Why It’s a Top Pick: The Mr. Heater Big Buddy stands out as the best overall garage heater due to its versatile power range, offering settings from 4,000 to 18,000 BTU. This range allows for adaptable heating depending on the garage size and the level of warmth needed.
Keep in Mind: This model does not include a gas hose, which is necessary for operation with a larger propane tank. You’ll need to purchase this separately.
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater is designed for portability and ease of use, featuring multiple heat settings—low (4,000 BTU), medium (9,000 BTU), and high (18,000 BTU). It’s capable of heating spaces up to 450 square feet, making it suitable for many standard garages. In our tests, it provided consistent and even heat distribution, effectively warming the test area. We could feel the warmth radiating up to 15 feet away, a significant improvement over a standard 110-volt infrared heater we previously used.
Setup was straightforward, and the included instructions were clear and easy to follow. Although the necessity to buy a gas hose and adapter separately was a slight inconvenience, the heater’s performance more than compensated. Despite being a propane heater, it operates at a relatively low noise level, even with the fan running. One observation was that the heat primarily radiated upwards, meaning areas directly below the heater remained slightly cooler. A longer power cord would have also been beneficial for positioning flexibility.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Propane
- Maximum Heat Output: 18,000 BTUs
- Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 17.75 inches
- Optimal Room Size: Up to 450 square feet
- Installation: Portable
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Alt text: Connecting a gas hose to a portable propane garage heater, Mr. Heater Big Buddy, for garage heating.
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Alt text: Two portable propane tanks attached to a Mr. Heater Big Buddy garage heater, showcasing its propane fuel source.
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Alt text: Glowing Mr. Heater Big Buddy propane garage heater in operation, illustrating its radiant heat output.
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Alt text: Lightweight and portable Mr. Heater Big Buddy propane garage heater with handle, emphasizing its ease of movement.
Understanding Key Heating Terms
BTU (British Thermal Unit): BTU is a standard measurement for heat energy. In garage heaters, the BTU rating indicates the amount of heat the heater can produce. A higher BTU rating means a more powerful heater capable of warming larger spaces or heating spaces more quickly.
Best Propane Garage Heater
Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
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Why It’s a Top Pick: For those needing rapid and powerful heating, especially in larger garages, the Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater is the best propane option. Its impressive 60,000 BTU output can quickly raise the temperature in spaces up to 1,500 square feet.
Keep in Mind: This heater lacks a built-in thermostat, meaning it runs continuously at the set level without automatically adjusting to maintain a specific temperature.
The Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater is built for power and speed. In our tests, it dramatically increased the temperature of a cold, 34°F garage within just five minutes. The directed heat was immediately noticeable, making it exceptionally effective for spot heating or quickly warming a large area. Its 60,000 BTU maximum output makes it one of the most powerful garage heaters we tested.
A significant advantage is its long runtime; it can operate for up to 12 hours on a 20-pound propane tank, making it reliable for extended use or as a backup during power outages. Simple dial controls allow for easy adjustment of heat output. The inclusion of a gas hose and regulator ensures safe and controlled gas pressure. Integrated handles enhance portability.
Designed to heat up to 1,500 square feet, this heater is ideal for medium to large garages or even job sites. While advertised as 50% quieter than comparable models, it still produces significant noise, similar to a high-speed box fan. Noise-canceling headphones might be advisable for prolonged use in close proximity. However, the absence of a thermostat means it’s not the most energy-efficient choice, as it cannot automatically regulate temperature to prevent overheating.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Propane
- Maximum Heat Output: 60,000 BTUs
- Dimensions: 15.98 x 8.82 x 13.5 inches
- Optimal Room Size: Up to 1,500 square feet
- Installation: Portable, Floor Mounted, Tabletop Mounted
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Alt text: Connecting a propane gas line to Mr. Heater Portable Forced Air Heater, highlighting setup for propane garage heating.
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Alt text: Powerful Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater in operation, showcasing its high heat output for garage environments.
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Alt text: Portable design of Mr. Heater Forced Air Heater with handle, emphasizing ease of transport around the garage.
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Alt text: Unboxed Mr. Heater Portable Propane Forced Air Heater, showing components and handle which requires attachment.
Best Garage Heater for Large Garages
Briza Infrared Electric Heater
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PHOTO: Amazon
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Why It’s a Top Pick: The Briza Infrared Electric Heater is our top pick for large garages due to its energy-efficient infrared heating technology. It directly warms objects and people rather than the air, which is particularly advantageous in large, less insulated spaces. Its IP55 weather-resistant rating also allows for both indoor and outdoor use.
Keep in Mind: Temperature control is limited to heat levels rather than precise temperature settings.
The Briza Infrared Electric Heater utilizes infrared technology to heat objects and surfaces directly, rather than heating the air. This method is more energy-efficient, especially in larger garages where heating the entire air volume can be costly and slow. It offers three heat settings—900, 1,200, and 1,500 watts—allowing for adjustable heat output.
In our tests, the Briza heater effectively warmed a three-car garage within minutes, with testers feeling the heat almost immediately. A built-in tip-over safety shutoff provides added security. Its IP55 rating confirms its resistance to dust and water, expanding its usability to patios and balconies.
Versatility in installation is another key feature; it can be ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, or used with the included adjustable tripod stand (48 to 75 inches). However, it can only be mounted horizontally, which restricts placement options somewhat. Optimal heating is felt within a 10-foot radius, with less heat projected from the back. Notably, its fanless operation makes it virtually silent, a significant advantage for noise-sensitive environments.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Maximum Heat Output: 1,500 Watts
- Dimensions: 35.5 x 4 x 4 inches
- Optimal Room Size: Up to 1,000 square feet
- Installation: Wall, Ceiling, or Tripod Stand
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Alt text: Briza Infrared Electric Garage Heater providing radiant heat in a spacious garage, demonstrating its horizontal mounting.
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Alt text: Using remote to control Briza Infrared Garage Heater, showing convenient operation of electric garage heater.
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Alt text: Briza Infrared Electric Garage Heater mounted on included tripod, demonstrating its versatile installation options.
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Alt text: Briza Infrared Electric Garage Heater in box, showing included tripod stand for floor placement.
Best Ceiling Mounted Garage Heater
Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
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Why It’s a Top Pick: For garages where space is at a premium, or for those who prefer unobstructed floor space, the Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater is the best ceiling-mounted option. Mounting it overhead allows for even heat distribution and eliminates floor clutter. It also includes a programmable timer and remote control for ease of use.
Keep in Mind: Installation is more complex and costly as it requires hardwiring and potentially professional installation, making it a more expensive option upfront.
The Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Heater is designed to save space and provide consistent heating from above. While it’s a pricier option, its ceiling mount design is ideal for maximizing garage space. Elevated installation ensures heat spreads evenly throughout the garage, minimizing cold spots.
Constructed from heavy-gauge steel, it’s built for durability. It comes with a remote control that includes a 12-hour timer for automated operation and an overheat sensor for safety. In testing, it effectively maintained a consistent 50°F temperature in the garage. Operation is relatively quiet, producing a low hum that doesn’t interfere with normal activities. Available in 5,000, 7,500, and 10,000-watt models, it offers choices for different garage sizes.
Installation requires hardwiring, necessitating professional electrical work, which adds to the overall cost. Considering both the unit price and installation fees, this heater represents a more significant investment compared to portable models.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Hardwired Electric
- Maximum Heat Output: 10,000 Watts
- Dimensions: 17.88 x 14 x 14.5 inches
- Optimal Room Size: Up to 1,500 square feet
- Installation: Ceiling Mounted
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Alt text: Ceiling mounted Comfort Zone garage heater displaying temperature, highlighting its integrated temperature display.
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Alt text: Comfort Zone ceiling mounted garage heater, emphasizing its space-saving design in a garage setting.
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Alt text: Comfort Zone Ceiling Mount Garage Heater packaging with remote control, highlighting convenient remote operation.
Best Hybrid Garage Heater
Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater
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PHOTO: Amazon
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Why It’s a Top Pick: The Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater is the best hybrid option due to its versatile power sources—it can run on propane, electricity, or battery power. This flexibility is especially useful for garages, providing heating solutions during power outages or in areas where power outlets are not readily accessible. Its robust build and safety features also make it a reliable choice.
Keep in Mind: It requires significant ventilation when operating on propane to prevent the buildup of toxic gases, which might be challenging in very cold conditions.
The Dewalt Hybrid Portable Heater combines ease of use with safety, making it a standout option, particularly for those with concerns about safety around children or in busy garage environments. Its wide base provides exceptional stability, reducing the risk of accidental tip-overs. A safety shut-off feature automatically cuts off the gas supply if the flame extinguishes, adding an extra layer of safety.
During testing, the handle remained cool to the touch even when the heater was operating, allowing for safe repositioning while in use. It’s powered by corded electricity with a battery backup option (20-volt max batteries, not tested), enhancing its utility during power failures or in remote locations.
With a powerful 68,000 BTU output, it can quickly heat large spaces up to a three-car garage, even in very cold conditions (tested at 11°F). However, it’s crucial to ensure adequate ventilation when using propane, which may require opening doors or windows, potentially counteracting some of the heating effect in extremely cold weather. The heater is also quite loud at maximum output, which may disrupt conversation.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Hybrid (Corded Electric, Propane, Battery)
- Maximum Heat Output: 68,000 BTUs
- Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 17 inches
- Optimal Room Size: Up to 1,700 square feet
- Installation: Portable
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Alt text: Dewalt Hybrid Portable Garage Heater requiring ventilation, indicating need for airflow when in use.
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Alt text: Controlling heat output of Dewalt Hybrid Garage Heater with nozzle, showing manual heat adjustment.
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Alt text: Dewalt Hybrid Portable Garage Heater with included gas hose and attachable handle, indicating components and portability.
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Alt text: Dewalt Hybrid Portable Garage Heater powered by both propane and electricity, showcasing its hybrid functionality.
Best Electric Garage Heater
Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater
PHOTO: Amazon
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Why It’s a Top Pick: The Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater is the best electric garage heater for those seeking convenience and smart features. Its Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote control via smartphone apps and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home, enabling scheduling and temperature adjustments from anywhere. It’s also safe to touch during operation and energy-efficient.
Keep in Mind: Its color options are limited to black and white, which may not suit all garage aesthetics.
The Heat Storm Wifi Infrared Heater is not just for garages but is versatile enough for any room in your home. It outputs 5,200 BTU (1,500 watts) and is effective for spaces ranging from 150 to 750 square feet, depending on insulation.
Smart features are a major highlight, including Wi-Fi connectivity, thermostat, remote control, and app compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. This allows for programmable heating schedules and temperature adjustments via voice command or smartphone. Temperature settings can also be managed via the remote or a touchscreen on the unit itself.
Safety is a key advantage; the heater remains cool to the touch during operation, making it safe for households with children and pets. It can be wall-mounted or used as a portable heater with detachable feet. In terms of performance, it quickly warmed our test garage in under 10 minutes and includes an energy-saving mode for efficient operation. Its sleek design is more appealing than many garage heaters, though color choices are limited.
Product Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Maximum Heat Output: 1,500 Watts
- Dimensions: 4 x 19 x 16 inches
- Optimal Room Size: Up to 150 square feet
- Installation: Wall and Portable
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Alt text: Temperature display on Heat Storm Infrared Garage Heater, showing digital temperature readout.
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Alt text: Remote control of Heat Storm Infrared Garage Heater with clearly labeled buttons, emphasizing user-friendly controls.
Other Garage Heaters We Tested
While the above heaters topped our lists, we tested several other models that, while not top picks, are still worth considering based on specific needs.
Heat Hog 18,000 BTU Indoor/Outdoor Portable Propane Heater
The Heat Hog Portable Propane Heater offers 18,000 BTU and a tilting feature to direct heat where needed. Suitable for smaller garages up to 450 sq ft, it’s compact but consumes propane relatively quickly. It may be more ideal for outdoor use like camping or tailgating rather than as a primary garage heater.
Remington REM-80T-KFA-O Kerosene/Diesel Forced Air Heater with Thermostat
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The Remington REM-80T-KFA-O is a powerful 80,000 BTU heater that quickly warms up a garage, even in very cold temperatures (tested at 4°F). It runs on kerosene or diesel, requiring good ventilation to dissipate carbon monoxide fumes. While effective for rapid heating, fuel-powered heaters may not be suitable for everyone, especially those unfamiliar with managing fuel and ventilation needs.
Our Garage Heater Testing Process
Our testing process for garage heaters was comprehensive, evaluating various models including portable, freestanding, infrared electric, and gas-powered heaters. For portable models, we assessed their maneuverability, while hardwired models were professionally installed for testing.
The testing methodology included:
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Setup and Baseline Measurement: Heaters were set up in a garage with ensured ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide accumulation. A thermostat placed 10 feet away recorded the initial temperature for one hour before testing began.
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Performance Evaluation: Over three uses, we recorded temperatures before heating, after 15 minutes of operation, and after shutdown. We also noted external conditions like temperature, weather (snow, wind, sun), and the number of vehicles in the garage to account for environmental variables.
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Safety Feature Assessment: We evaluated safety features such as timers, tip-over shutoffs, surface temperatures during operation, and overheat protection.
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Feature and Usability Testing: Additional features like thermostats, timers, humidity sensors, and eco modes were tested. Usability factors such as noise level, ease of operation, and portability were also considered.
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Energy Consumption (Electric Models): For electric heaters, we monitored energy bill changes and consumption during the testing period to assess efficiency.
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Alt text: Garage heater testing process, showing equipment and setup for evaluating garage heating performance.
Key Considerations When Buying a Garage Heater
Choosing the best garage heater requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure you select a model that meets your specific needs and garage conditions.
Heater Type: Gas vs. Electric
Garage heaters primarily come in gas and electric variants. Electric heaters are generally simpler to install and operate, requiring only plugging into a standard electrical outlet. Within electric heaters, infrared models offer enhanced energy efficiency by heating objects directly rather than the air.
Gas heaters, while potentially more cost-effective to run, can be more complex to set up. Natural gas heaters require a gas line installation, and all gas heaters necessitate good ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Portable gas heaters typically use propane, kerosene, or diesel fuel.
Sizing Your Garage Heater
Properly sizing your garage heater is crucial for efficient heating. A general guideline, as suggested by Fournier, is to estimate 10 watts of heating power per square foot of garage space. For instance, a 20×24 foot garage (480 sq ft) would require approximately 4,800 watts of heating power. This calculation helps ensure the heater has sufficient capacity to effectively warm your garage.
Power Source and Fuel Type
Garage heaters are powered either by electricity or gas. Electric heaters are convenient but can be less cost-effective in areas with high electricity rates. Gas heaters, especially natural gas, can be cheaper to operate but may require professional installation of gas lines and necessitate careful ventilation practices. Propane, kerosene, and diesel heaters offer portability but require fuel storage and handling.
Installation Requirements
Installation complexity varies significantly between garage heater types. Some electric models are designed for simple plug-in use, while others require hardwiring or wall/ceiling mounting, potentially needing professional electrician services. Natural gas heaters always require professional installation to connect to a gas line. Consider installation costs and requirements when budgeting for your garage heater.
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Alt text: Installing an electric garage heater, emphasizing the ease of installation for some electric models.
Your Garage Heater Questions Answered
What type of garage heater is most energy-efficient?
Generally, gas heaters, particularly natural gas models, are considered more energy-efficient overall due to lower fuel costs compared to electricity in many regions. However, modern electric infrared heaters with features like eco-modes and programmable thermostats can significantly improve energy efficiency by reducing heat wastage and optimizing usage.
How much BTU is needed to heat a two-car garage?
For a standard two-car garage, typically ranging from 500 to 700 square feet, a heater with around 45,000 BTUs is generally recommended. However, this can vary based on insulation levels, climate, and desired temperature increase.
What is the average cost to install a garage heater?
Installation costs for garage heaters vary widely. Portable heaters are the most budget-friendly as they require no installation. Hardwired electric and natural gas heaters can incur significant installation expenses, depending on the complexity of the setup, fuel type, and local electrician or HVAC technician rates. Budget-conscious buyers might opt for portable models, while those needing more permanent and powerful heating should factor in professional installation costs.
About the Author
Nor’Adila Hepburn is a seasoned writer for Better Homes & Gardens, specializing in detailed buying guides. Her expertise in home products is backed by thorough research and expert consultations, such as her interview with Traci Fournier, Vice President of Operations at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, for this guide on garage heaters. Hepburn’s commitment to providing practical and informed advice helps readers make the best choices for their home improvement needs.
