Best 60K BTU Propane Heater Options for Garages and Workshops

Finding a reliable 60,000 BTU propane heater means balancing output, run time, portability, and venting needs. Below is a concise comparison table of five relevant units selected for their BTU range, fuel type, and typical applications. The reviews that follow summarize key features to help match a heater to your space and use case.

Product	Fuel / BTU	Highlights
Dura Heat GFA60A 30K-60K	Propane (LP) / 30,000–60,000	Variable output, 7–14 hr runtime on 20 lb tank
Mr. Heater MH60QFAV	Propane (LP) / 60,000	QBT quieter fan tech, variable 30k–60k
Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGD	Propane (LP) / 30,000–60,000	Continuously variable BTUs, heats up to ~1,350 sq. ft.
Rinnai i060CN Condensing Gas Boiler	Natural Gas / 60,000 (condensing boiler)	Whole-home boiler + domestic hot water, wall-mounted
Mr. Heater Big Maxx (Conversion Kit Included)	Natural Gas / 80,000 (LP conversion kit included)	High-output unit heater with venting options

Dura Heat GFA60A 30K-60K Propane Forced Air Heater

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The Dura Heat GFA60A is a variable-output propane forced air heater that spans 30,000 to 60,000 BTU. It is designed for garage and jobsite heating where adjustable output is useful to control temperature and propane consumption.

• Variable Heat Output: 30K–60K BTU allows matching heat to space and tank runtime needs.
• Run Time: Operates about 7–14 hours on a 20 lb propane cylinder depending on setting.
• Operation: Simple controls intended for portable and semi-permanent use; forced-air design heats air quickly.

Objectively, the unit is suited for spaces where portable forced-air heat and a broad output range matter. Users should account for ventilation, clearances, and propane storage. The adjustable output supports both high heat demand and fuel-saving lower settings.

Mr. Heater MH60QFAV 60,000 BTU Portable Propane Forced Air Heater

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The Mr. Heater MH60QFAV is a dedicated 60,000 BTU propane forced-air heater with QBT (quieter blower) technology. It targets users who need strong, portable heat with reduced noise compared to conventional forced-air models.

• QBT Technology: Claimed to be approximately 50% quieter than some standard models, beneficial in occupied workspaces.
• Variable Output: 30K–60K BTU for flexibility; runtime up to 14 hours on 20 lb tank at low setting.
• Portable Form Factor: Designed for transport between jobsites or seasonal garage use.

This model is noteworthy for combining a high output with noise-reducing design. Considerations include required clearance and proper propane connections. It suits users who prioritize a balance of power and quieter operation in portable heating scenarios.

Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGD 30,000 – 60,000 BTU Liquid Propane Forced Air Heater

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The Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGD offers a continuously variable BTU range and is claimed to heat up to about 1,350 sq. ft. It is intended for workshops, large garages, and other semi-enclosed areas needing robust forced-air heat.

• Continuously Variable BTUs: Fine-tune heat output for comfort and fuel efficiency over the 30k–60k range.
• Coverage: Marketing cites heating capability for large open spaces around 1,350 sq. ft.; actual coverage depends on insulation and ceiling height.
• Forced-Air Design: Delivers rapid warm-up of the breathing zone and air in the space.

For objective planning, the Dyna-Glo unit is suitable where adjustable high output and rapid room warm-up are desired. Note that heating area estimates assume baseline conditions; colder climates or poorly insulated spaces may require higher runtime or supplemental heat.

Rinnai i060CN Condensing Gas Boiler, 60K BTU

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The Rinnai i060CN is a 60,000 BTU condensing boiler designed for whole-home hydronic heating and domestic hot water via integrated plate heat exchanger. It is a wall-mounted unit with modulating output and smart control features.

• Whole Home + DHW: Functions as a hydronic boiler and provides domestic hot water with an integrated plate exchanger.
• Modulating Burner & Controls: Stainless-steel heat exchanger and multizone control capability help match heat to demand and improve efficiency.
• Smart Features: Digital display, outdoor reset sensor compatibility, and programmable settings.

While this is a natural gas boiler rather than a portable propane forced-air unit, it is relevant for homeowners seeking a 60K BTU fixed hydronic solution for space heating and hot water. Installation requires plumbing, venting, and adherence to local codes with professional sizing and placement.

Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG Unit Heater (Conversion Kit Included)

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The Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG is an 80,000 BTU unit heater that ships for natural gas but includes a conversion kit for liquid propane in many configurations. It is designed as a permanent or semi-permanent unit heater for large spaces.

• High Output: Rated at 80K BTU, suited to large garages, shops, or warehouse bays; conversion kit allows LP use where mains gas is not available.
• Venting Options: Supports vertical or horizontal venting depending on category and installation instructions.
• Mounting And Controls: Includes bracket options and provides access to thermostat and connections; typically paired with external thermostat control.

For installations where a single high-capacity heater is required, this Big Maxx unit offers robust continuous heat. Conversion for propane can make it relevant for off-grid or propane-fueled applications, but professional installation is recommended to verify venting, clearances, and gas-line compatibility.

Buying Guide: Choosing The Right 60K BTU Propane Heater

Selecting a 60K BTU-level heater involves more than matching output. The following considerations will help you choose the right type and model for your space and operational needs.

1. Fuel Type And Conversion

Propane vs Natural Gas: Portable forced-air models commonly run on propane (LP). Some larger unit heaters are natural gas with optional LP conversion. Confirm the supplied or required conversion kit and whether fuel conversions are permitted by the manufacturer and local code.

2. Heater Type And Heat Delivery

• Forced-Air Heaters: Heat air quickly and warm the breathing zone. Best for job sites and garages needing fast, distributed warmth.
• Infrared / Blue-Flame: Radiant heaters warm objects and people directly; useful when heating a portion of a space or when ceilings are high.
• Hydronic Boilers: Condensing boilers (like the Rinnai) deliver zoned hydronic heat and domestic hot water, suited for whole-home or in-floor systems rather than portable applications.

3. BTU Rating And Space Size

BTU ratings guide potential coverage but must be adjusted for insulation, ceiling height, and climate. As a rough rule: 60K BTU can heat a large garage or workshop under average insulation, but poorly insulated or very cold spaces may need greater capacity or supplemental heaters.

4. Venting And Installation

Vented vs Vent-Free: Forced-air propane heaters typically exhaust combustion products and require proper venting and clearances. Unit heaters may require dedicated venting and professional installation. Follow manufacturer instructions and local codes strictly.

5. Safety Features And Controls

• Thermostat Compatibility: Check whether the heater has built-in thermostat control or requires an external thermostat.
• Tip-Over And Overheat Protections: Portable units may feature safety shutoffs—confirm their presence and operation.
• CO And Combustion Air: Ensure adequate combustion air and consider CO detection in enclosed spaces when using fuel-burning heaters.

6. Runtime And Fuel Consumption

Runtime on a 20 lb propane cylinder varies by output setting. Models that offer variable BTU output allow longer runtime at lower settings. For continuous operation in larger spaces, consider bulk propane supply or hard-piped fuel systems.

7. Noise, Portability, And Application

Noise: Forced-air blowers produce sound; some models advertise quieter blowers. If noise is a concern for occupied spaces, prioritize units with reduced-noise technology.

Portability: Portable forced-air units are designed for transport; heavier unit heaters and boilers are more permanent and may need mounting or piping.

8. Coverage, Ceiling Height, And Layout

Heaters that specify square-foot coverage generally assume typical 8–10 foot ceilings and reasonable insulation. High ceilings or obstructed layouts reduce effective coverage; radiant heaters perform better for spot heating under such conditions.

9. Maintenance And Serviceability

Consider component accessibility for cleaning and servicing, availability of replacement parts, and whether professional annual servicing is recommended. Condensing boilers and high-capacity unit heaters typically require more routine maintenance than portable forced-air models.

10. Regulatory And Code Compliance

Always confirm local building codes and fuel storage regulations for propane installations. Some heaters require certified installation, specific venting categories, or minimum clearances. For whole-home systems, use licensed HVAC/plumbing contractors for sizing and installation.

Comparative Perspective Summary:

• Portable Forced-Air Propane Heaters (Dura Heat, Mr. Heater MH60, Dyna-Glo) are suitable for workshops, garages, and jobsites needing mobility and quick warm-up.
• Unit Heaters With Conversion Kits (Mr. Heater Big Maxx) provide higher continuous output and are appropriate where a permanent or semi-permanent installation is acceptable and venting can be accommodated.
• Condensing Boilers (Rinnai i060CN) are intended for whole-home hydronic systems and domestic hot water; they are not portable but provide efficient fixed heating and DHW integration.