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9 Best Propane Garage Heaters of 2022 - Buying Guide
A propane garage heater can introduce warmth to a cold workspace. Whether you are enjoying DIY projects or a social event with friends, a garage is an ideal space for spending an afternoon. However, garages can be drafty, and in the winter months, the cold winds and damp weather can make them an unpleasant space to spend time. Adding a heater enables you to use your garage as a workspace, gym, or rec room.
While we’ve decided on what we feel is the best propane garage heater on the market, there was plenty of intense competition. The most suitable garage heater for you depends on your requirements, so it’s crucial to understand the differences between each model.
Read on to find your ideal propane garage heater.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison Chart
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PROS
SPECS
Mr. Heater Vent Free Propane Garage Heater
PROS
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Heats garage spaces up to 500 ft2
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Integrated thermostat for precision temperature control
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Suitable for wall mounting
SPECS
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Battery-powered electric ignition
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Multiple burner tiles provide even heating
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Low oxygen shut off system
Dyna-Glo 10,000 BTU Liquid Propane Garage Heater
PROS
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Stylish black color scheme
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Does not require a flue or a chimney
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No need for electricity
SPECS
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Includes 10’ propane hose & regulator
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3 variable heat settings
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Uses advanced Blue Flame technology
Dyna-Glo BFSS30LPT-2P
PROS
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Burns with a 99.9% efficiency rate
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Heats spaces up to 1,000 ft2
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Ideal for use in emergencies
SPECS
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Works with a 2-stage adjustable regulator
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Heater automatically adjusts to the preset temperature
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Quick start ignition system
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Propane Gas Heater
PROS
-
Integrated fan for improved heat distribution
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Reliable Piezo sparking mechanism
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Suitable for connection to a remote gas supply
SPECS
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Radiant heat technology
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Accidental tip-over shut off function
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Connects to lightweight 1 lb. propane tanks
DeWalt F340661
PROS
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Robust heavy duty carrying handle
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Forced air heating system
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Easy to disassemble for cleaning
SPECS
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Works with 20-volt Max and Flexvolt batteries
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50% less noise than standard propane heaters
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Industrial housing protects internal components
9 Best Propane Garage Heater Reviews
1. Mr. Heater Vent Free Propane Garage Heater: Best Overall
Key Features:
- Battery-powered electric ignition
- Multiple burner tiles provide even heating
- Low oxygen shut off system
- Comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Produces 18,000 BTUs of energy
Mr. Heater is an innovative and trusted supplier of high-quality propane garage heaters, and they’ve delivered again with this excellent unit. We had no trouble getting the heater to start using the battery-powered electric ignition system, and the warmth from the multiple burner tiles hit us immediately.
The radiant convection heating system provided an even warmth throughout the garage, and there were no noticeable cold spots. Since several of us were sitting in multiple locations around the garage, it was nice that we could all remove our coats and hoodies and sit in comfort.
Thankfully we didn’t need it, but it was reassuring to know there is a low oxygen shut-off system. If the garage heater senses the oxygen concentration is below safe levels, the system instantly powers off. The intuitive thermostat is easy to use, and we lowered the heat setting when the garage was sufficiently warm.
After several hours of testing over numerous days, our team has no hesitation in naming this model the best propane heater for the garage.
Pros
- Heats garage spaces up to 500 ft2
- Integrated thermostat for precision temperature control
- Suitable for wall mounting
Cons
- One of the more expensive propane garage heaters
Who Should Get This?
This model is an excellent choice for the garage owner that needs a reliable and robust propane garage heater when warming large and cool spaces.
2. Dyna-Glo 10,000 BTU Liquid Propane Garage Heater: Best for the Money
Key Features:
- Includes 10’ propane hose & regulator
- 3 variable heat settings
- Uses advanced Blue Flame technology
- Built-in carbon monoxide sensor
- Installation hardware and brackets included
This wall heater adds warmth to your garage at an affordable price. You can set it up and turn on the heat as soon as the box arrives, as all the installation hardware and brackets come included. You only need to add the propane tank and connect it to the heater using the long 10’ hose and regulator.
Choose from low, medium, and high heat using the variable control knob. The range of temperatures is ideal for saving money in the warmer summer months and allows you to crank up the heat when the winter weather brings the colder air.
Dyna-Glo uses its Blue Flame technology to significant effect, and the heat spreads throughout a garage in the same way as it would if you were using your home heating system.
For your peace of mind, there is a built-in carbon monoxide alarm. Because you can not see this harmful gas, it is essential to have an operational warning system to alert you if it is present in the air.
Pros
- Stylish black color scheme
- Does not require a flue or a chimney
- No need for electricity
Cons
- Not for sale in California or Canada
Who Should Get This?
This propane garage heater is the ideal choice for anyone shopping on a budget but refuses to accept a lower quality product. Competes with considerably more expensive models.
3. Dyna-Glo BFSS30LPT-2P Liquid Propane Heater: Best for Warming Large Areas
Key Features:
- Works with a 2-stage adjustable regulator
- Heater automatically adjusts to the preset temperature
- Quick start ignition system
- Can add base legs for floor mounting
- Uses an enormous 100 lb. propane tank
If you have a substantial-sized garage or find it challenging to heat to each side of the room, you need a powerful propane heater that can outperform its rivals. This Dyna-Glo unit can warm a 1,000 ft2 area, and because it burns with 99.9% efficiency, it is also environmentally friendly.
Although you can WALL MOUNT the unit to help clear the garage floor space, there are optional base legs if you prefer floor mounting. For an enhanced runtime, this model works with a massive 100 lb. propane tank so you can relax in your garage without the need for constant refueling.
This feature could be crucial in an emergency if your property suffers a power outage for several hours. Because there is no requirement to power the unit with electricity, you can stay warm, whatever the outside weather.
We were delighted with the convenience added by the auto-adjust heating system that senses the garage temperature. The intelligent mechanism regulates the heat to ensure it remains at the preset level, with no need for manual intervention.
Pros
- Burns with a 99.9% efficiency rate
- Heats spaces up to 1,000 ft2
- Ideal for use in emergencies
Cons
- Unsuitable for fuel conversion
Who Should Get This?
If you have a particularly large garage or plan on using your propane heater outside as well as indoors, this model is a solid choice.
4. Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Propane Gas Heater: Best for Portability
Key Features:
- Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
- Connects to lightweight 1 lb. propane tanks
- Accidental tip-over shut off function
- Radiant heat technology
- Attractive black-and-red color scheme
This propane garage heater uses a reliable Piezo sparking mechanism to light the flames instantly. When you turn the single control start knob, a spring-loaded hammer strikes quartz to produce a spark, making this one of the most reliable lighting methods available. We noticed the radiant heat technology quickly distributed heat around the room.
Our testing garage was much smaller than the 450 ft2 this heater is capable of warming, so we spent most of the time using the low heat setting. In wintertime, the medium and higher warmth options are also useful. It was easy to move the unit because it connects to a small 1 lb. propane tank, and this is an excellent model for taking to a buddy’s garage or tailgating due to its lightweight design.
The manufacturer includes the functionality to connect this model to a remote gas supply, so there’s no need to run out of fuel during extended use. Powerful yet compact, this is the best portable propane gas heater for garage use.
Pros
- Integrated fan for improved heat distribution
- Reliable Piezo sparking mechanism
- Suitable for connection to a remote gas supply
Cons
- Need to purchase hose and filter separately
Who Should Get This?
Even if you plan on using your propane garage heater indoors most of the time, there might be occasions you need to take it outside. This model is easy to maneuver.
5. DeWalt F340661 68,000 BTU Portable Propane Heater: Best for Durability
Key Features:
- 50% less noise than standard propane heaters
- Industrial housing protects internal components
- Produces a maximum 68,000 BTUs of energy
- Works with 20-volt Max and Flexvolt batteries
- Meets CSA safety standards
If you do a lot of work in your garage or store materials or tools in the area, there is the risk of accidental damage to your propane heater. However, DeWalt has encased the internal components in an industrial-strength housing unit, keeping them safe from bumps and scrapes.
Although this model produces a huge 68,000 BTUs of energy on the maximum setting, you can turn it down as low as 27,000 BTUs when you don’t require as much supplemental heat.
Despite the incredible power of this heater, it has a LOW OPERATIONAL NOISE LEVEL. Remarkably, it can be as much as 50% quieter than many rival propane heaters, making it ideal for when you have friends in your garage.
You can talk at a comfortable level while still feeling the benefits of the extra heat. Maintenance is straightforward, as you can easily disassemble the unit. For your peace of mind, this propane heater meets CSA safety standards, so you can be confident it operates safely in an indoor environment.
Pros
- Robust heavy duty carrying handle
- Forced air heating system
- Easy to disassemble for cleaning
Cons
- No remote control option
Who Should Get This?
Garages can be busy spaces, and many objects could damage your propane heater. However, this model is strong, durable, and built-to-last.
6. Mr. Heater 25000 BTU Convention Outdoor Propane Garage Space Heater: Best for Heating Multiple Spaces
Key Features:
- 2 units included in the package
- Thermoelectric safety valve
- Pleasant odorless burning
- Efficiently burns 0.176 lbs. of fuel per hour
- Lightweight at only 3 lbs.
An effective way of ensuring heat reaches every corner of your garage is to use 2 heaters that warm separate sides of the building. This 2-pack propane heater set uses a convection heating system to evenly spread warmth, while the thermoelectric safety valve and standing pilot light add an extra layer of safety.
Although this set requires a vented garage space, we found the unit to produce odorless heat. A single 20 pound. propane tank can provide up to 17 hours worth of fuel, which is an excellent feature if you are likely to be heating your garage for long periods. The 10’ connection hose comes in the package, so you can keep the tank a considerable distance from the heater if you need extra space.
There is no electricity required, allowing you to position the heater away from plug sockets. As each unit weighs a mere 3 pounds, you can quickly move them to where you need them most, which is useful if you have multiple workstations in your garage.
Pros
- 1 fuel tank lasts up to 17 hours
- Convection heating system
- Hose and regulator included with the heater
Cons
- Requires a vented garage space
Who Should Get This?
An efficient method for heating a large garage space is to use 2 propane heaters. Position them at either end of your garage for superior heating results.
7. Dyna-Glo 10K BTU HeatAround 360 – Black: Best for 360° Heating
Key Features:
- Swivel valve tank replacement mechanism
- Built-in oxygen depletion sensor
- Variable heat settings
- Carry case available for transportation
- No assembly required
We were delighted to have the chance to test the only propane garage heater on the market that provides 360° heat, and it didn’t disappoint. One of the most impressive aspects was that it came fully assembled, and we connected it to our propane tank and had it up and running in a few minutes.
The circular heater on top of a stable base has a safety guard for preventing accidental contact with the structure, and the heat distribution covers a 250 ft2 area. There are variable heat settings, producing between 7,500 and 10,000 BTUs of energy depending on the required heat.
Because Dyna-Glo HeatAround 360 is the ideal propane garage heater for entertaining guests who can sit around the unit, we were pleased to see an accidental tip-over shut-off function. This feature immediately stops the supply of gas to the heater in the event of it falling over.
When it was time to return the unit, we found the swivel tank replacement mechanism to be as easy as any system we’ve used when disconnecting the propane bottle.
Pros
- Safe for indoor use
- State-of-the-art patent-pending technology
- Does not require electricity or batteries
Cons
- Not suitable for heating larger garage spaces
Who Should Get This?
If there are several people in your garage or you use multiple workstations, it can be challenging to heat the entire space. This model’s intelligent design sends out plenty of heat for your space.
8. Master MH-150V-GFA-A 150,000 BTU Variable Output LP Forced Air Heater: Best for Safety
Key Features:
- Fully enclosed gas controls
- High-temperature limit shut off
- Flameout fuel cut off system
- Produces up to 150,000 BTUs per hour
- Forced air heating system
This Master MH-150V-GFA-A is one of the safest propane garage heaters on the market. The fully-enclosed gas controls keep them secure from dust and dirt that can build up in a busy garage environment, and there is a high-temperature limit shut off to prevent overheating. There is also a flame out fuel cut-off system that stops the gas supply when there is no flame to burn the fuel for added safety.
These safety features are welcome additions to any propane appliance but are especially vital for such a powerful model. Producing an incredible 150,000 BTUs of energy, this heater can warm areas as large as 3,800 ft2. There is an adjustable heat angle facility, allowing you to direct heat higher or lower depending on where you are working.
The forced-air heating system provides a steady stream of warm air, and because this model is CSA-certified for use with 100 lb. propane tanks, you won’t need to replace the fuel too often.
Pros
- Heats up to 3,800 ft2
- Runtime of up to 18 hours
- Adjustable heat angle
Cons
- Not as aesthetically pleasing as some other models
Who Should Get This?
Safety is paramount when working with propane appliances, and this model has a range of features that reduce the risk of accidental harm during operation.
9. MH4B Little Buddy Heater: Best for Compact Design
Key Features:
- One button ignition system
- Heats spaces up to 95 ft2
- CSA-certified for indoor use
- Stable 8” round stand
- Built-in tip-over shut-off system
If you like to go into your garage alone to carry out DIY work or like a bit of extra heat while puttering around on a lazy Sunday afternoon, Little Buddy Heater is an excellent choice. Because it weighs only 5.85 pounds, you can place this compact unit in any part of the garage.
The 8” stand offers stability, and the integrated tip-over shut-off system turns off the gas if you accidentally knock the unit over. There is a one-button ignition system, and you can point the angle heater head to direct warmth in the desired direction.
Although this unit is not suitable for heating large workspaces, it is ideal for warming areas up to 95 ft2 in size. When keeping your garage clean and uncluttered, it’s essential that appliances use as little space as possible, and this model has a small footprint.
Having achieved CSA certification for indoor use, this model is safe and reliable. Although it is a solid choice for a propane garage heater, it is also a superb model for camping and outdoor use.
Pros
- Easy to carry to workspaces
- Doesn’t take up much surface area
- Ideal for use in smaller garages
Cons
- Unsuitable for heating large areas
Who Should Get This?
A propane garage heater doesn’t have to take up much space. This model provides plenty of heat but won’t add unnecessary clutter to your garage workspace.
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Final Verdict: Our Top Choice
A propane garage heater is ideal for use in the colder winter months, but it is also useful for adding extra heat to your garage in the fall and spring changes. Mr. Heater has produced an outstanding model that excels in every aspect, and it is suitable for small and large garages alike.
The safety features are impressive, the convenient start-up mechanism is smooth, and the easy wall and floor mounting systems make this a popular choice for many customers.
Although we enjoyed the warmth provided by numerous superb propane garage heaters, our undisputed favorite is the Mr. Heater Vent Free Propane Garage Heater.
How to Choose the Best Propane Garage Heater?
It can be challenging to choose the most energy-efficient propane garage heater due to the wide range of choices on the market. However, some considerations can help you narrow down your choice and find an environmentally friendly model
However, the question remains, what exactly should you be on the lookout for when buying one of these units?
Number of BTUs
If you need to heat a substantial garage space, you may need to purchase a unit that produces a high number of BTUs per hour. However, if you have a smaller space, you can reduce energy use, and the amount of fuel you burn, by choosing a less powerful propane heater.
Many modern garage heaters burn fuel efficiently, so you can still receive plenty of warmth from less vigorous models.
Ignition System
Portability can have a significant effect on the energy efficiency of your propane garage heater. If you are trying to heat the entire room and leave a heater turned on to propel warmth to the other side of the garage, this can use considerable energy. By purchasing a portable model, you can move it to colder areas when one section is warm. If you prefer, buying 2 smaller units could be more efficient than using one larger heater.
If you are using one part of your garage, you can also move the heater to provide warmth to that specific place. Burning less fuel is a crucial aspect of reducing your carbon footprint.
Propane Tank Safety
Propane tank safety is vital for energy efficiency. If a unit continues to produce warm air when it is already overheating, this could damage the internal components. If these harmful effects reduce the operational effectiveness of the heater, it could be less energy-efficient.
If a propane garage heater releases gas into the air when there is no flame, this is inefficient and dangerous. A flameout safety system ensures the system shuts down the supply of propane to the heater if a flame is not present.
It is essential to follow a maintenance program and ensure your heating equipment is safe for use at all times. If you notice any issues, call for repairs by a professional to keep the components in good condition.
Auto-Adjust Temperature Function
It can be challenging to measure the temperature in your garage accurately. If there are drafts that cool down areas that your heater has warmed, it becomes even more challenging to judge the temperature.
However, you can purchase a propane garage heater that has an automatic heat adjustment feature. This function monitors the room temperature and reduces the heat level if it is above a preset position.
An auto temperature adjustment feature also allows you to leave it at a low setting, so you are only heating the air to a required temperature rather than inadvertently making the room too hot.