Finding the right shop heater means matching power, fuel type, installation, and safety to your workspace. This guide compares five heaters from plug-in 110/120V options to hardwired and fuel-based units so you can choose what fits your workshop, garage, or basement.
| Product | Type | Power / Output | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LF Bros 110V/12/24V 5KW Diesel Heater | Diesel Air Heater (All-In-One) | 4700–17000 BTU (5 kW) | Includes 110V transformer; remote & LCD |
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG | Natural Gas Unit Heater | 80,000 BTU | 120V electrical; vents required; large coverage |
| Dura Heat EWH5510 Electric Forced Air | Electric Hardwired Garage Heater | 17,060 BTU (5,000W at 240V) | Hardwired 240V; covers up to 750 sq. ft.; remote |
| Dr Infrared Heater DR-988A | Electric Hardwired Shop Heater | 4800/5600W (208/240V) | Requires NEMA 6-30R outlet; 240V |
| Dura Heat EUH1465 Forced Air Portable | Portable Electric Forced Air | 5,120 BTU (1,500W) | Plug-in 120V; compact shop heater |
Content Navigation
- LF Bros 110V/12/24V 5KW Diesel Heater
- Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
- Dura Heat EWH5510 Electric Forced Air Heater
- Dr Infrared Heater DR-988A Garage Shop 208/240-Volt
- Dura Heat EUH1465 Electric Forced Air Heater
- Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Shop Heater
- 1. Voltage And Power Requirements
- 2. Fuel Type And Venting
- 3. Heating Capacity And Coverage
- 4. Installation Complexity And Cost
- 5. Safety Features And Certifications
- 6. Controls, Thermostats, And Convenience
- 7. Noise, Durability, And Maintenance
- 8. Comparison Perspectives
- 9. Practical Checklist Before Buying
LF Bros 110V/12/24V 5KW Diesel Heater
This all-in-one 5 kW diesel heater supplies hot air for enclosed spaces and supports 12V, 24V and an included 110V transformer for direct plug-in use. It outputs roughly 4700–17,000 BTU and lists fuel consumption between 0.18 and 0.53 L/h. The manufacturer rates operation down to -40°F, making it suitable for very cold starts.
Key features include an LCD control panel, a pre-paired remote with ~100 ft range, and a 5L fuel tank. The kit aims to avoid additional purchase of power converters and simplifies setup for garages, campers, and workshops. Installation instructions and QR-code video support are provided.
Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
The Mr. Heater Big Maxx is a high-capacity natural gas unit with 80,000 BTU output meant for large shops up to ~2,000 sq. ft. It requires natural gas supply and vertical or horizontal venting per its category specifications. The unit uses 120V electrical for controls and the fan.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
The package includes the heater and mounting brackets; thermostat, gas hose and regulator are not included. Clearance and venting requirements are important: minimum 8 ft clearance from the floor to the base of the unit. This heater is intended for permanent installation where gas plumbing and proper venting are feasible.
Dura Heat EWH5510 Electric Forced Air Heater
The Dura Heat EWH5510 is a large electric forced-air heater designed for garages and workshops. Rated at 5,000W (240V) with about 17,060 BTU, it covers up to 750 sq. ft. and is a hard-wired 240V unit that requires professional installation.
Controls include a remote and adjustable thermostat with LED display over a 45–99°F range. Because it is a 240V device, installation requires correct supply and breaker sizing (30A) and compliance with local electrical codes. The manufacturer emphasizes professional installation for safety.
Dr Infrared Heater DR-988A Garage Shop 208/240-Volt
The DR-988A is a 208/240V hardwired heater providing up to 5,600W. It requires a NEMA 6-30R receptacle and a NEMA 6-30P cord for connection. The unit is marketed for garage and shop environments where higher-voltage hardwired heating is acceptable.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
Power consumption and plug requirements must be checked against your workshop’s electrical capacity. This heater focuses on robust electric heat delivery without fuel storage but requires correct outlet type or wired connection by a certified electrician.
Dura Heat EUH1465 Electric Forced Air Heater
The Dura Heat EUH1465 is a compact, 120V plug-in forced-air heater delivering 1,500W (about 5,120 BTU). It offers a portable option for smaller workspaces, quick spot heating, or supplemental warmth. The PTC ceramic element provides faster warm-up and a pivoting base for directional airflow.
Construction is steel for workshop durability, and control options include heat and fan-only modes. As a plug-in 120V device it’s convenient where 240V circuits or fuel installs are not practical, but its coverage is limited compared to high-BTU or hardwired systems.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Shop Heater
Selecting a heater for a shop or garage requires balancing heating capacity, fuel type, installation complexity, and safety features. Below are core considerations and comparison perspectives to guide your decision.
1. Voltage And Power Requirements
- 110/120V Plug-In Units: Convenient for standard outlets; typical for portable heaters and lower wattage (e.g., 1,500W). Best for small spaces or supplemental heat.
- 240V Hardwired Units: Provide higher wattage and broader coverage (5,000W+). Require professional installation, correct breaker and wiring, and sometimes a specific outlet type.
- Mixed Voltage/Fuel: Some diesel or gas heaters use low-voltage controls but also include 110V transformer or wiring options—useful if you need portability across installations.
2. Fuel Type And Venting
- Electric Heaters: Clean, quiet, and simpler to install if you have compatible wiring. No combustion byproducts; preferred for enclosed workspaces without venting.
- Natural Gas/Propane: High BTU output for large areas. Require gas hookup, venting, and clearances. Good where natural gas is available and high capacity is needed.
- Diesel Heaters: Offer off-grid heating for garages, RVs, and workshops. They may require fuel storage and exhaust routing; some models include built-in 110V transformers for easier hookups.
3. Heating Capacity And Coverage
Match BTU or wattage to square footage. As a rough guide:
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
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.
- Small spaces (up to ~300 sq. ft.): 1,500–3,000W or ~5,000–10,000 BTU may suffice.
- Medium spaces (300–750 sq. ft.): 3,000–5,000W (10,000–17,000 BTU) or hardwired units.
- Large shops (>750 sq. ft.): Consider high-BTU gas units or multiple electric hardwired heaters placed strategically for even distribution.
4. Installation Complexity And Cost
- Plug-In Portable: Lowest installation cost; portable but limited capacity.
- Hardwired 240V: Higher installation cost; professional electrician required. Offers higher output and integrated mounting options.
- Gas/Diesel: May require venting, fuel/gas lines, or exhaust routing. Check local codes and permit requirements.
5. Safety Features And Certifications
- Look for overheat protection, thermal cut-out switches, and ETL/UL certification.
- For combustion heaters, ensure proper exhaust routing, CO detection in enclosed spaces, and adherence to clearance recommendations.
- Hardwired units should be matched with correct breakers and wire gauges to avoid electrical hazards.
6. Controls, Thermostats, And Convenience
- Remote controls and digital thermostats improve comfort and efficiency—useful for turning on heat before entering the shop.
- Timers and ECO modes can reduce runtime and energy use.
- Directional louvers or pivoting bases help aim heat where needed for spot heating or circulation.
7. Noise, Durability, And Maintenance
- Fan-forced units produce some noise; check reviews and specs if noise level matters for your workspace.
- Steel construction and durable housings are preferable in rugged shop environments.
- Combustion heaters require periodic maintenance on burners and fuel lines; electric units are generally lower maintenance.
8. Comparison Perspectives
- Best For Portability: 120V plug-in forced-air units like the Dura Heat EUH1465 provide easy setup and movement between areas.
- Best For Large Areas: High-BTU natural gas units like the Mr. Heater Big Maxx suit warehouses and large shops when venting and gas supply are available.
- Best For Off-Grid Or Mobile Uses: Diesel all-in-one heaters with multi-voltage support (LF Bros) offer flexible use in garages, RVs, or remote sites.
- Best For Permanent Heavy-Duty Heating: 240V hardwired electric heaters (Dura Heat EWH5510 or Dr Infrared DR-988A) give steady high output but require proper installation.
9. Practical Checklist Before Buying
- Measure the shop’s square footage and ceiling height.
- Confirm available voltage (120V vs 240V) and outlet type or circuit capacity.
- Decide on fuel availability (electric, gas, diesel) and venting capability.
- Verify local code requirements for gas or combustion appliances and electrical work.
- Plan heater placement for even heating and safe clearances from combustibles.