Posted: October 2009

Most families rarely use their garage space just for storage or for parking their vehicles. These days, garage double as laundry rooms, workshops, play areas and even as niches for pets. The garage has become an extension of the family's living space, but in the winter it becomes almost unbearable to be in for more than a few seconds. The cold chill and drafty structure make it less than habitable, causing us to lose our square footing during the winter season. However, we can easily fix this problem with a simple garage heater.

But what type of garage heater you get depends on what you use your garage for. There are several recommended garage heaters, but ultimately what you should consider three different types of heaters before making a final decision.

Forced-Air Heaters

Traditional forced air heaters deliver instant heat like a conventional furnace and are designed to solve any outdoor heating needs. A convection garage heater moves air past a heating element warming the air; then the hot air rises away from the heater. These garage heaters are best for enclosed spaces and are similar to a forced air heating system in a home. They are easy to use and install and are a great way to warm an entire garage. Some of the most common and widely used forced-air heaters include the Dayton series, a range of portable gas-fired forced air heaters. Many models in the Dayton line all include easy electronic ignition, a fuel shutoff device, and automatic overheat shutoff.

Forced-air heaters can be placed in a corner, near a gas line and an electrical outlet. How many BTUs (units of energy) you'd need depends on variables such as your garage size, climate zone and preferred temperature settings. However, a basic rule of thumb for forced-air heaters is 45,000 BTU to heat a two to two and a half car garage, and 60,000 BTUs for a three-car garage.