Best LP Garage Heater for Propane Garage Heating

Choosing the right LP (propane) garage heater depends on space size, ventilation, installation type, and safety features. Below is a quick comparison of selected propane-compatible heaters to help you match capacity and features to your garage, workshop, or shop needs.

Product Type BTU Coverage Key Feature
ProTemp PT-80V-LPC Convection Propane 80,000 Up To 1800 Sq Ft CSA Certified
Gasland MHA18BN Radiant Portable 18,000 Up To 450 Sq Ft Tip-Over & Low-O2 Shutoff
Mr Heater 4k–18k Portable Portable Propane 4,000–18,000 Up To 450 Sq Ft Dual Tank Connection, 3 Settings
Reznor UDXC-60 Ceiling-Mount Forced Air 60,000 Workshop/Warehouse Two Output Levels, 83% Efficiency
SunStar SIR45-15-L Tube LP Garage Heater 45,000 Typical Garage Compact 110″ Length, Up To 84.5% Efficiency

ProTemp 80,000 BTU LP Propane Convection Heater (PT-80V-LPC)

ProTemp 80,000 BTU LP Propane Convection Heater

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This unit is a high-output convection propane heater rated at 80,000 BTU and designed for larger garages, barns, and workshops. The manufacturer lists a coverage capability of up to 1800 square feet, making it suitable for sizable spaces that need uniform air heating rather than spot heat.

Key listed features include CSA certification for safety compliance and compatibility with a 20 lb propane tank. The convection design distributes warmed air throughout the space rather than relying on radiant heat, which can be preferable for whole-room comfort. The unit emphasizes safety certification and continuous operation with a standard LP tank configuration.

Gasland MHA18BN Propane Radiant Heater, 18,000 BTU

Gasland MHA18BN Propane Radiant Heater

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The Gasland MHA18BN is a portable radiant propane heater producing 18,000 BTU and intended for smaller garages, workshops, and construction sites up to about 450 sq. ft. It provides direct radiant warmth, which heats people and objects faster than convection in many setups.

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Listed safety features include Tip-Over Shutoff and Low-Oxygen (O2) Shutoff, making it suitable for ventilated indoor use with proper precautions. The product comes with a regulator hose and emphasizes no electricity required operation, which can be useful during power outages. The unit’s mobile design, integrated handle, and optional wheels make repositioning straightforward.

Mr Heater 4,000–18,000 BTU Portable LP Gas Heater With Dual Tank Connection

Mr Heater Portable LP Gas Heater 4k-18k

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This compact portable propane heater offers three heat settings (4,000 / 9,000 / 18,000 BTU) and a listed heating range of up to 450 sq. ft. It supports a dual tank connection for extended run time when used with larger or multiple cylinders (requires additional hose).

Features noted by the manufacturer include a single control start knob with piezo ignition, automatic safety shutoff if tipped, and versatility for indoor/outdoor ventilated spaces like porches, sheds, and small garages. Its portability and multiple output levels make it a flexible option for targeted heating needs.

Reznor UDXC-60 60,000 BTU Propane Garage Heater (UDXC-60)

Reznor UDXC-60 Propane Garage Heater

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The Reznor UDXC-60 is a ceiling-mount forced-air propane heater rated at 60,000 BTU with listed two output levels (low fire 34,860 BTU / high fire 49,800 BTU shown in features). The unit is designed for workshops, warehouses, and larger indoor areas and lists an 83% thermal efficiency rating.

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Features in the product listing include threaded retainers for suspension mounting and multiple mounting options (ceiling or wall brackets sold separately). The forced-air design moves warm air quickly across the room and can be paired with ducting or directional louvers for targeted distribution. This model is positioned as a high-performance option for ongoing shop use.

SunStar SIR45-15-L Garage Tube Heater LP, 45,000 BTU

SunStar SIR45-15-L Garage Tube Heater

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The SunStar SIR45-15-L is a tube-style LP garage heater with 45,000 BTU output and compact dimensions. The product lists an overall length of 110 inches for easier installation and reports efficiencies up to 84.5%. It is intended for typical residential garage installs with a minimum mounting height of 8 feet.

Tube heaters provide a mix of radiant and convective heat and are often used where distributed, lower-profile installation is required. The SunStar’s compact footprint and stated installation height offer flexibility in garages where headroom or ceiling structure matters.

Buying Guide: How To Choose An LP Garage Heater

Selecting the right LP garage heater requires matching capacity, type, and safety to your garage size and ventilation. Below are the main factors to evaluate before purchase.

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1. Heater Type — Radiant, Convection, Forced-Air, Tube

  • Radiant Heaters: Heat people and objects directly; efficient for spot heating or when quick warmth is needed. Good for smaller garages or where you work in one area.
  • Convection Heaters: Heat the air and distribute warmth throughout the space; better for whole-garage comfort and larger areas.
  • Forced-Air Heaters: Use blowers to move warm air quickly. Suitable for larger shops where airflow can be directed.
  • Tube Heaters: Long tubular design provides even distributed heating across bays or larger single rooms; often installed overhead.

2. BTU Output And Coverage

  • Estimate square footage and ceiling height. Use manufacturer coverage estimates as a baseline but account for insulation and climate.
  • Smaller garages (≤500 sq ft) often fit 18,000–45,000 BTU units depending on insulation. Larger shops require 60,000–80,000+ BTU options for full-space heating.

3. Fuel Supply And Tank Size

  • Confirm compatibility with 20 lb or larger LP tanks, or with hard-piped propane if available.
  • Dual tank connection options extend run time and reduce refueling frequency for portable units.

4. Installation And Mounting

  • Decide between portable units, ceiling mounts, or wall installations. Tube and forced-air units often require permanent mounting and clearance specifications.
  • Check listed minimum clearance from floors, walls, and combustibles. Many units require 8 ft minimum mounting height.

5. Safety Features And Certifications

  • Look for CSA or other third-party certifications for safety compliance.
  • Key safety features: Tip-over shutoff, low-oxygen shutoff (ODS), and thermal limits.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation per manufacturer instructions; LP heaters consume oxygen and produce combustion products.

6. Efficiency And Operating Costs

  • Compare thermal efficiency ratings where published; higher efficiency reduces fuel use for the same heat output.
  • Consider the trade-off between higher upfront capacity and runtime costs based on tank size and expected usage hours.

7. Noise And Air Movement

  • Radiant and convection heaters are usually quieter; forced-air units use a blower and may produce more noise.
  • Evaluate whether noise affects your workspace comfort and select accordingly.

8. Mobility And Use Cases

  • Portable models are convenient for temporary or multiple locations; stationary heaters provide more power and continuous operation.
  • If you need emergency heat during outages, non-electric propane units can operate without mains power.

9. Maintenance And Warranty

  • Regular inspection of hoses, regulators, and burners is important for safe long-term operation.
  • Check manufacturer documentation for recommended service intervals and warranty coverage.

10. Multiple Comparison Perspectives

  • Small Garage / Spot Heating: Consider portable radiant units (e.g., 18,000 BTU) with ODS and tip-over protection for direct warmth.
  • Whole Garage / Up To 1,800 Sq Ft: Convection or forced-air units with higher BTU ratings and proper mounting deliver even heat distribution.
  • Commercial / Workshop: Forced-air or tube heaters with higher efficiency and mounting options suit continuous shop use.
  • Temporary Or Backup Heat: Portable LP units with dual-tank capability or no-electric ignition provide flexible emergency heating solutions.

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