Overview: This guide compares five heaters that match the search for 35,000 BTU garage heaters or equivalent capacity for small-to-medium garages and workshops. Below is a quick comparison table of the selected models to help you scan key specs before the detailed product sections.
| Model | Fuel/Type | Output | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| LB White SUNBLAST 35 LP | Propane Infrared | 35,000 BTU | Shop, Garage, Outdoor |
| Mr. Heater MH35LP | Propane Radiant | 35,000 BTU | Workshops, Construction Sites |
| SunStar Garage Tube Heater | Natural Gas Tube | 35,000 BTU | Permanent Garage Installation |
| Mr. Heater MH35FA | Propane Forced-Air | 35,000 BTU | Smaller Industrial Spaces, Garages |
| CTSC 10000W Electric Heater | Electric Fan-Forced | 10,000 W (~34,120 BTU) | Hardwired Garage/Shop Heater |
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LB White SUNBLAST 35 LP Propane Heater
This propane infrared flat-panel heater is rated at 35,000 BTU and is designed for portable or semi-portable use in garages, shops, and outdoor work areas. The unit uses infrared radiant heat to warm objects and people directly rather than heating large volumes of air.
Key Features Referenced:
- Powerful 35,000 BTU infrared output for focused heat distribution.
- Piezo ignition for reliable starts without external power.
- Compatible with standard 20 lb. propane cylinders for convenience and availability.
- Tip-over safety switch that shuts the unit off if knocked over.
Suitability Notes: Infrared radiant design benefits spaces where you want to warm work surfaces and occupants quickly. Portability and standard cylinder compatibility make it useful for garages without natural gas lines. Safety features are relevant for busy work environments.
Mr. Heater F270700 MH35LP Propane Radiant
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The MH35LP is a portable propane radiant heater with a 35,000 BTU rating intended for job sites, workshops, and garages. It emphasizes direct radiant warmth to heat objects and people efficiently.
Key Features Referenced:
- 35,000 BTU portable propane output with radiant heating technology.
- A folding handle and wheels for easier mobility around job sites or large garages.
- Manufacturer-stated coverage up to 875 sq. ft. depending on environment and insulation.
- Radiant heat strategy focuses on warming surfaces instead of air, which can be efficient in partially open or drafty garages.
Suitability Notes: The folding handle and wheels make this model practical when you need to move the heater frequently. Radiant units like this are suitable when targeted warmth is preferred over whole-space air heating.
SunStar Garage Tube Heater – Natural Gas 35,000 BTU
The SunStar tube heater is a natural gas unit designed for permanent garage or workshop installation. With a 35,000 BTU rating, it is engineered for continuous use and efficient long-term heating.
Key Features Referenced:
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- Compact overall length (110 inches) to simplify installation in standard garage layouts.
- Efficiencies up to 84.5% for effective fuel utilization.
- Designed to install with the unit as low as 8 ft. above the floor, offering flexible mounting options.
Suitability Notes: Tube heaters are preferred for permanently installed garage heating when a natural gas supply is available. They distribute heat along the length of the unit and can be more efficient for consistent, whole-space heating.
Mr. Heater MH35FA 35,000 BTU Forced-Air Propane
The MH35FA is a forced-air propane heater delivering 35,000 BTU with a design geared toward heating air quickly in small industrial or commercial garage spaces.
Key Features Referenced:
- Forced-air delivery ideal for circulating warm air through the area for more uniform ambient temperature.
- Rated to heat spaces up to ~800 square feet, depending on insulation and ventilation.
- Long run capability—manufacturer states it can run up to 12 hours on an appropriate fuel supply.
Suitability Notes: Forced-air models are useful when you need to raise ambient air temperature across the entire garage rather than localized radiant heating. Consider ventilation and combustion air requirements for safe operation.
CTSC 10000W Electric Garage Heater, 240V
This hardwired electric fan-forced heater delivers 10,000 W (approximately 34,120 BTU) and targets garages and workshops where electric supply and permanent installation are preferred over gas. It includes a digital thermostat and remote control for setpoint management.
Key Features Referenced:
- Voltage display to help identify improper wiring or supply voltage during setup.
- Built with SPCC cold-rolled steel and includes overheating protection and ETL listing for safety compliance.
- Multiple control methods—digital touch panel, remote, three heat settings, and ECO function for energy management.
Suitability Notes: Electric 10,000 W units are an effective non-combustion alternative to gas for garages with adequate electrical service. This model is suitable for users seeking cleaner, plug-and-play style operation with thermostat control and safety monitoring.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A 35,000 BTU Garage Heater
Choosing the right 35,000 BTU heater means balancing fuel type, heat delivery method, installation requirements, and safety features. Below are the primary considerations to compare across the models above.
Fuel Type And Availability
Propane: Portable options like LB White and Mr. Heater models use 20 lb. cylinders and are suitable where natural gas or high-voltage electric service are unavailable. Good for temporary or mobile heating needs.
Natural Gas: Tube heaters such as SunStar require a permanent natural gas connection. They are preferred for continuous operation, lower running cost (where gas is economical), and fixed installations.
Electric: Hardwired electric heaters (CTSC) eliminate combustion concerns and indoor venting but require sufficient amperage and dedicated circuits. Electric is cleaner and often simpler to maintain.
Heat Delivery: Radiant vs Forced-Air
Radiant (Infrared): Heats objects and people directly and is efficient in drafty spaces or where spot heat is needed. Radiant units typically feel warmer faster at the workbench or on the car hood.
Forced-Air: Moves warm air to raise ambient temperature more uniformly. Better for whole-space heating when you want consistent air temperature across the garage.
Portability And Installation
Portable propane units are easy to move and require minimal installation. Consider wheel and handle options for mobility.
Permanently Installed tube heaters and hardwired electrics need ceiling mounting, gas piping, or dedicated electrical service. Allow for professional installation to meet local codes.
Safety Features And Venting
For combustion heaters, verify tip-over switches, oxygen depletion sensors, and proper venting/combustion air. Forced-air and tube heaters use combustion and must meet clearance requirements.
Electric heaters avoid flue gas and CO risks but require correct wiring, overload protection, and thermal cutouts to prevent overheating.
Capacity And Coverage
BTU ratings and wattage indicate maximum output, but real-world coverage depends on insulation, ceiling height, and open doors. Models list square-foot guidance—compare that to your garage’s conditioned volume. For intermittent use or spot heating, radiant 35,000 BTU units often outperform forced-air in perceived warmth.
Efficiency And Operating Cost
Compare stated efficiencies (e.g., SunStar’s up to 84.5%) and fuel costs in your region. Electric units have near-100% on-site efficiency but may have higher utility costs depending on electricity rates. Natural gas and propane fuel pricing vary by location and availability.
Controls And Convenience
Look for thermostats, remote control, timers, and ECO modes to manage energy use and comfort. Electric units frequently include digital controls; many gas units rely on manual valves and simple ignitions.
Maintenance And Longevity
Combustion units require periodic inspection, burner cleaning, and gas line checks. Electric heaters have fewer moving parts but fans and elements should be inspected. Consider warranty coverage and availability of replacement parts.
Comparison Perspectives
- Best For Portable Spot Heat: Propane radiant models (LB White, MH35LP) for targeted warmth and mobility.
- Best For Whole-Garage Permanent Heat: Natural gas tube heaters (SunStar) when a permanent supply exists.
- Best For Clean Indoor Use: Hardwired electric (CTSC) where combustion is a concern or venting is impractical.
- Best For Fast Air Heating: Forced-air propane (MH35FA) when you need to raise ambient temperature quickly across the space.
Before purchasing, measure your garage volume, check fuel/ electrical availability, confirm local codes for combustion appliances, and match the heater type to whether you need spot heat or whole-space warming.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
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