Let’s face it, just because you have a fridge in your garage, doesn’t mean your garage needs to feel frigid. These days, there are plenty of options available for professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike to heat their man (or woman) cave on a budget. The first step in this process is to determine how much heat you actually need in your garage, for example; does your garage tend to get really cold during the chilly winter months or is it attached to your home and so it stays relatively warm? Is your garage massive and will require a larger capacity heater? These are all things you should consider in the initial phases of your project, to ensure the best results possible.
After you’ve determined how warm you would like your garage to be, the next step is to determine what heater size you will need. Heater sizes are measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) and come in a range of sizes. The larger the heater’s BTU size, the more square footage the unit can heat effectively. After you’ve made this determination, you should be sure that your garage space is properly insulated. This will ensure that your heater will be able to effectively heat the space without running constantly. The last thing you’d want to do is install a heater in an insufficiently insulated room, only to spend a fortune on your energy bill to have the heater running all day to compensate. You’ll want to be sure to insulate both walls and ceilings and also caulk around doors and windows to prevent warm air from escaping.
Now that you’ve decided on the size of the heater you’ll need and you’ve adequately insulated to make sure that it will function optimally, you’re ready to make the final decision about the style of heater you will use to heat your garage. There are many types of heating options you can choose from to make sure you’re nice and toasty during your next woodworking project, car build, or whatever other garage projects suit your fancy. Below are some of the styles available for you to choose from:
- Convection Heater: Larger units will heat your space quickly and are very versatile. This portable heating system comes in many fueling options, from electric, to propane to natural gas. It’s also a cost effective option, as no installation is required and units are relatively affordable.
- Ductless Heater: These energy efficient heaters are referred to by a host of other names, including split-ductless systems, splits, and multi-splits. Choosing this easy to install system will also give you the option to cool your space, as well, which is an attractive option.
- Forced-Air Heater: Typically requires professional installation, but are cheaper than the infrared options discussed below. These heating systems work by forcing hot air around the space and so they may not be ideal for certain working situations, like woodworking.
- Propane Heater: This affordable option comes in many varieties to suit a range of needs. Its a great portable heating option, but typically needs to be manually ignited in some form.
- Mounted Electric Heater: One of the best heating options available for heating a garage space. These can typically be installed by DIY’ers and therefore save on installation charges and are incredibly energy efficient.
- In-Floor Heating: Just like the options typically found in kitchens and bathrooms. You can even go bare foot in your garage, if you’re into that kind of thing. Can be a bit more costly.
- Wood Burning Stove: Wonderfully cost effective method of heating your space, but may not be as convenient, as you’ll need to purchase or have wood cut and available for use. Requires regular cleaning and proper installation to ensure safety.
- Portable Space Heater: Simple heating option that is affordable, with low cost to purchase and no installation needed. Available in electric or propane fueled models.
- Radiant Electric Ceiling Panels: This radiant heating option easily mounts to your ceiling and is simple to install, very energy efficient and will warm up quickly on those cold days.
- Infrared Heater: Uses a low-intensity infrared tube to radiate heat out into your space. This option may take some time to warm you up.
After you’ve determined the perfect heater to use in your garage, you can look forward to the enjoyment of a nice, warm space for all of your projects or just getting to your car in less than toasty temperatures!
