Most people use their garage as a workplace, a “man cave,” a place for recreational hobbies, or a place where they can have some time for themselves. These reasons compel homeowners to ensure that the garage is as comfortable as the rest of their homes. If you’re thinking about purchasing the best garage heater to meet your needs, here are the three main types of garage heaters.
Electric Garage Heaters
The most common garage heater used in most home garages is the electric heater. Electric garage heaters use electricity, convert it to heat, and push the heat out from the device by a motorized fan. For homeowners who use their garage for automotive work or those who store combustible materials, electric garage heaters are ideal.
Advantages
- Effortless to set up and install
- Do not require fuel refilling
- They require very little maintenance
- Controlled by a thermostat, electric garage heaters are generally quiet
- Can be mounted to the wall to avoid tipping over
- Come in portable and compact designs.
Disadvantages
- Because they rely on electricity, they can be expensive to run
- A power outage means no heat from your device
- You cannot control the heater’s fan speed.
Propane Garage Heaters
As the name implies, this heater makes use of propane. The fuel is released from the tank, ignited by the pilot flame, heated and kept in the heat exchanger and released through a vent when the temperature is correct. If you’re using your garage as an extra living space, this could be an excellent option for you.
Advantages
- Propane heaters are generally efficient and long-lasting
- Power outages do not affect their performance
- They can quickly warm space or your garage
Disadvantages
- Propane garage heaters require that the garage has proper ventilation
- For your safety, adequate venting is necessary; otherwise, you run the risk of dangerous fumes escaping into your garage
- Your garage has to be clear of combustible materials
- You have to consider the installation of a heater and gas fitter, including the cost of gas for your expenses.
Natural Gas Heaters
Natural gas heating systems use a gas line that flows through the gas valve within the heater. These work by getting the fuel ignited and warmed up until it reaches the set temperature. A fan blows out the heated air and circulates it around the garage.
Advantages
- Natural gas heaters are the least expensive to run
- They can efficiently heat a room in a short amount of time
- They work in power outages
Disadvantages
- Just like propane gas heaters, adequate ventilation is vital to avoid gas fumes from escaping into your garage
- Your garage will need proper ventilation
- You must make sure that your garage is free from combustible materials
- Natural gas heaters leave an odour
- Require a gas line for your garage
With all three garage heaters, you also have to consider the size of the heater you need for your garage. That said, be aware of your garage’s size in square footage, the height of your garage ceiling, insulation, and other details that will affect the overall performance of your garage heater.
As always, you can reach out to your trusted company if you have questions or concerns about choosing the best garage heater.
