Warm Up Your Workshop: A Complete Guide to Garage Heating
Don’t let a chilly garage put a freeze on your projects. Whether you’re a mechanic, woodworker, or just want a comfortable space to store your paint and tools, proper heating is key. But before you buy a heater, you need to prepare the space.
Step 1: Insulation First—Stop Losing Heat!
A great heater can’t beat poor insulation. The single best way to ensure efficient, affordable heating is to seal up your space.
Insulate Walls & Ceiling: This is the most critical step. If your garage is attached to your home, this might be all you need to keep the temperature above freezing.
Upgrade Your Garage Door: An insulated garage door is a must. If yours isn’t, consider a cost-effective garage door insulation kit.
Seal All Air Gaps: Check around windows, doors, and any penetrations for wiring or plumbing. Weatherstripping and caulking can make a huge difference in preventing drafts and heat loss.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Garage Heater
Garage heaters come in several main types, each suited for different needs and budgets.
| Heater Type | How It Works | Best For | Fuel Options |
| Unit Heaters | Blows heated air into the space. Typically mounted on the ceiling or wall. | Evenly heating a large, well-insulated space quickly. | Natural Gas, Propane, Electric |
| Radiant Heaters | Heats objects and people directly, like the sun. They don’t heat the air first. | Spot heating, or for people who spend a lot of time working on the floor. Highly efficient. | Natural Gas (Infrared), Electric (Ceiling Panels) |
| Forced Air Heaters (Furnaces) | A dedicated furnace unit with a fan that pulls in cool air, heats it, and forces hot air out. | Large, actively used workshops and holding off the chilliest winters. | Natural Gas, Propane |
| Ductless Mini-Split | An all-in-one heating and cooling solution (like for a home), but for a garage. | Premium comfort and efficiency; provides both heating and AC. | Electric |
Sizing Your Heater (BTUs)
You’ll need enough BTUs (British Thermal Units) to adequately heat your space.
Rule of Thumb: Plan for 1 BTU per square foot for a well-insulated garage, or up to 1.5 BTUs per square footfor a poorly insulated space.
Example: A standard two-car garage is about 400 square feet. A well-insulated space would need a heater rated around 40,000 BTUs to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Step 3: Safety and Smart Features
Once you’ve picked a type, don’t forget these crucial final steps:
Safety First
Proper Ventilation: If you use a gas or propane heater, you must ensure the unit is properly vented to the roof or out a wall to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep Clear: Never store flammable materials near your heater.
Use the Right Equipment: Always use a heating unit that is specifically designed for garage use.
Smart Operation
Programmable Thermostat: Install a programmable or remote control thermostat to save money. You can heat the garage only when you plan to use it, rather than keeping it warm 24/7.
Louvered Units: Some electric and unit heaters come with adjustable louvers to direct heat right where you need it—like your workbench.
Need Professional Installation? Call PDM.
For 140 years, PDM has been bringing the heat to our customers. If you need help sizing the perfect unit, ensuring proper ventilation, or simply getting reliable installation, we can help.
Call PDM Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Since 1885 for a free estimate on your garage heating installation.
You’ll get honest solutions and top-notch craftsmanship to keep you safe and comfortable. Serving Joliet, New Lenox, Plainfield, Bolingbrook and SW Chicago Suburbs. Cal 815-390-7095.
