Finding the right shop heater for a large garage, warehouse, or workshop requires matching capacity, fuel type, mounting, and efficiency to your space. The table below summarizes the five selected heaters relevant to 200,000 BTU class or comparable high-output shop heating solutions.
| Product | Fuel Type | Rated Output | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reznor UDXC-200 | Natural Gas | 200,000 BTU | Ceiling Mount, Two Output Levels, 83% Efficiency |
| Mr. Heater 200,000 BTU Big Maxx | Natural Gas | 200,000 BTU | Aluminized Steel Heat Exchanger, 82% Efficiency |
| MH400FAVT Forced Air | Propane | 250,000 – 400,000 BTU | High Capacity Forced Air, Thermostat Controlled |
| Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG | Natural Gas | 80,000 BTU | Unit Heater For Mid-Size Shops, Includes Conversion Kit |
| Dura Heat LPC80 Convection | Propane | 50,000 – 80,000 BTU | 360° Convection, No Electricity Required |
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- Reznor UDXC-200 200,000 BTU Commercial Natural Gas Heater
- Mr. Heater 200,000 BTU Big Maxx Natural Gas Unit Heater
- MH400FAVT 250,000–400,000 BTU Propane Forced Air Heater
- Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG 80,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater
- Dura Heat LPC80 50–80,000 BTU Propane Convection Heater
- Buying Guide For Choosing A 200,000 BTU Shop Heater
- Comparison Perspectives
Reznor UDXC-200 200,000 BTU Commercial Natural Gas Heater
The Reznor UDXC-200 Is A 200,000 BTU natural gas indoor unit designed for commercial and industrial spaces including garages, warehouses, and large shops. It features two output levels—reported as a low and a high setting—allowing modulation for milder days versus extremely cold conditions.
Key technical points include an 83% thermal efficiency rating, a quiet forced-air design with a low static propeller fan, and threaded-nut retainers at four suspension points for ceiling mounting. The unit is intended for fixed installation and offers robust heat output for spaces that require sustained high-BTU capacity. Mounting hardware may be sold separately depending on configuration.
Mr. Heater 200,000 BTU Big Maxx Natural Gas Unit Heater
Mr. Heater’s 200,000 BTU Big Maxx Is Marketed As A High-Capacity Natural Gas Unit Heater Suitable For Large Shops Up To Thousands Of Square Feet. The unit specifies an 82% thermal efficiency with a claimed coverage up to 6,700 square feet, making it a direct contender for users seeking a 200k BTU class solution.
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This model lists an aluminized steel heat exchanger for durability in industrial settings and is intended for standard combustion power-vented operation. It requires professional installation for venting and gas hookups and is suitable where a hardwired, permanently mounted heater is desirable for consistent heat delivery.
MH400FAVT 250,000–400,000 BTU Propane Forced Air Heater
The MH400FAVT Is A High-Capacity Propane Forced-Air Heater With A Stated Range Up To 400,000 BTU. While Its Minimum Output Exceeds 200,000 BTU, It Is Included As An Alternative For Very Large Shops Or Spaces Needing Extra Reserve Capacity.
Designed For Forced-air Heating, This Unit Is Thermostat Controlled And Suited For Open Shop Environments Where Rapid Air Movement And High Heat Output Are Required. It Operates On Propane Fuel, and installation considerations include proper ventilation and a propane supply rated for continuous high BTU demand.
Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG 80,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater
The MHU80NG Is An 80,000 BTU Natural Gas Unit Heater From Mr. Heater Intended For Mid-Sized Garages And Workshops. It Includes Two Angle Brackets And A Liquid Propane Conversion Kit; thermostat, hose, and regulator are not included.
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Specifications include coverage up to approximately 2,000 sq. ft., 120 V electrical requirement at low amperage, and installation-clearance requirements (minimum 8 ft. from floor to base). This model Is Relevant As A Modular Choice For Users Who May Combine Multiple Units Or Whose Spaces Do Not Require A Single 200k BTU Unit.
Dura Heat LPC80 50–80,000 BTU Propane Convection Heater
The Dura Heat LPC80 Is A propane convection heater With Variable Output From 50,000 To 80,000 BTU. It Features 360-Degree Convection For Even Heat Distribution And Can Run Without Electricity On A Large LP Cylinder, Making It Useful For Off-Grid Or Supplementary Heat.
Maximum Room Size Is Cited Around 1,900 Sq. Ft. This Unit Is A Candidate For Smaller Sections Of A Shop, Temporary Heat, Or Supplemental Heating When A Single 200k Unit Would Be Excessive or unavailable. It offers long run times on a large tank and simple piezo ignition operation.
Buying Guide For Choosing A 200,000 BTU Shop Heater
Selecting an appropriate 200,000 BTU class heater involves more than BTU alone. Evaluate these dimensions to match heater performance to your shop’s needs.
Space Size And Heat Load
Calculate approximate heat requirement by considering cubic footage, insulation level, door openings, and desired temperature rise. A 200,000 BTU unit is typically for large, poorly insulated, or high-ceilinged spaces. For smaller, well-insulated shops, multiple smaller units or lower BTU models may be more efficient.
Fuel Type: Natural Gas Vs Propane
- Natural Gas—Typically cost-effective if municipal supply exists; requires proper venting and gas line capacity.
- Propane—Portable and available where natural gas isn’t; storage tanks and fuel delivery logistics matter for continuous high-BTU operations.
Mounting And Installation
Decide ceiling-mounted vs floor or wall-mounted units. Ceiling mounts save floor space and are common for large shops. Confirm suspension points, required mounting hardware, and clearances. Professional installation is recommended for gas hookups and venting to meet safety codes.
Efficiency And Heat Distribution
Higher thermal efficiency reduces fuel consumption for the same output. Forced-air units distribute heat quickly; convection units provide more even, passive warm-up. Consider fan noise, ducting options, and whether you need zoned heating.
Output Modulation And Controls
Units with multiple output levels or thermostat control enable better temperature regulation and fuel savings. Check compatibility with building thermostats, control wiring access, and the presence of built-in safety controls or diagnostic modules.
Venting And Clearance Requirements
Combustion heaters require proper venting (horizontal or vertical) and minimum clearances from combustibles. Confirm whether the model is category 1 vertical, category 3 horizontal, power vented, or direct/indirect vent and follow local codes for installation.
Durability And Serviceability
Look for corrosion-resistant heat exchangers (aluminized or stainless steel), replaceable parts, accessible controls, and manufacturer support. Commercial-grade units are built for long run times and easier maintenance.
Redundancy And Zoning
For very large shops, consider multiple smaller units placed strategically to avoid temperature stratification and to provide redundancy in case of service downtime. Multiple units can allow sectional heating and lower overall operating costs when only part of the space is occupied.
Noise And Air Movement
Forced-air models move air rapidly and can be louder; low-static fans and quieter technology are preferable in occupied workspaces. Convection heaters run quieter but heat more slowly.
Safety Features
Verify presence of flame rectification or spark ignition diagnostics, overheat protection, and proper labeling. Follow manufacturer clearances and install CO monitoring for indoor combustion-heated spaces unless units are direct-vent sealed combustion types.
Comparison Perspectives
Comparing units across multiple perspectives helps determine the best match:
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
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- Capacity Match: If your calculated load is near 200k BTU, the Reznor UDXC-200 and Mr. Heater 200k models align directly.
- Fuel Logistics: Choose natural gas units where continuous municipal supply exists; propane units when gas lines are unavailable.
- Coverage Strategy: Use single large unit for uniform heating of one large open area. For segmented shops, multiple 80k–100k units provide zoning flexibility and redundancy.
- Efficiency And Operating Cost: Compare thermal efficiency percentages and real-world fuel costs. Higher efficiency reduces run-time fuel consumption.
- Installation Complexity: Hardwired and vented units require professional installation; portable convection heaters may run with minimal setup but offer lower absolute capacity.