Best LP Garage Heater With Thermostat

Choosing the right liquid propane (LP) garage heater with a thermostat depends on garage size, venting needs, and desired control. Below is a concise comparison of five LP-capable heaters selected for thermostatic control, output range, and installation style to help you narrow options quickly.

Product	Type	BTU / Output	Thermostat
Mr. Heater MHVFGH30LPBT	Vent-Free Blue Flame	30,000 BTU	Built-In Thermostat
ProCom ML300TBA-B	Ventless Blue Flame	30,000 BTU	Thermostat Control (High/Med/Low)
Mr. Heater 30,000 BTU Radiant	Vent-Free Radiant	30,000 BTU	Built-In Thermostat
SunStar SIR45-15-L	LP Tube Heater	45,000 BTU	Compatible With Thermostatic Controls
Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx	Unit Heater (NG With LP Conversion Kit)	80,000 BTU	Thermostat Not Included (supports external)

Mr. Heater 30,000 BTU Vent Free Heater

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This vent-free blue flame propane heater is designed for garages, cabins, and similar enclosed spaces. It offers 30,000 BTU heat and a built-in thermostat for temperature control. The unit includes battery-powered electronic ignition (battery included) and a factory-installed oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) that shuts the unit off automatically if oxygen levels fall below safe levels.

Key performance notes: rated to heat up to 1,000 sq. ft. and tested to operate consistently at elevations up to 4,500 ft. Fuel consumption at maximum output is noted so runtime estimates on common LP cylinders can be approximated. This model is vent-free, requiring appropriate space and ventilation per local code.

ProCom 30,000 BTU Ventless Propane Heater

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The ProCom ML300TBA-B is a compact blue flame ventless LP heater with a maximum of 30,000 BTU. It includes thermostat control with selectable High/Medium/Low thermostat settings, allowing simple temperature regulation without separate control devices.

Design details include a slim profile intended for wall mounting or floor placement using included feet. Manufacturer guidance lists residential use such as bedrooms, living rooms, and offices; when used in garages, follow local regulations for ventless appliances. Installation hardware is included, and the unit’s thermostat simplifies maintaining consistent temperatures in small to medium spaces.

Mr. Heater 30,000 BTU Radiant Propane Heater

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This model is a vent-free radiant LP heater that produces sun-like infrared warmth using burner tiles. The radiant approach heats objects and people directly rather than primarily heating air, which can feel more comfortable in drafty garage environments.

Rated at 30,000 BTU and suitable for spaces up to about 1,000 sq. ft., it lists fuel-efficiency data and runtime estimates based on LP cylinder sizes. The heater includes an internal thermostat and is designed as supplemental heat for rooms, sunrooms, and additions. As with vent-free appliances, observe local codes and oxygen-depletion safety features when installing in enclosed spaces.

SunStar 45,000 BTU Garage Tube Heater

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The SunStar SIR45-15-L is an LP tube-style garage heater with 45,000 BTU output designed for suspended installation above work areas. Tube heaters distribute heat along their length and can be zoned with thermostats and controls compatible with forced-air or radiant distribution strategies.

Notable engineering points include compact overall length and efficiency figures reported up to 84.5%. Installation height recommendations start as low as 8 ft. above the floor. Tube heaters typically require a separate wall or line-voltage thermostat for automated control; check compatibility and wiring needs if thermostat integration is required.

Mr. Heater Big Maxx 80,000 BTU Unit Heater

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The Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG is a high-output unit heater primarily for natural gas but includes an LP conversion kit. It delivers 80,000 BTU suitable for larger garages, workshops, and commercial spaces. This model ships without an integrated thermostat, but it supports external thermostats for automated temperature control.

Dimensions support overhead or wall installations and bracket mounting is included. The unit’s category venting options require adherence to venting codes. When converting to LP and integrating a thermostat, confirm certified conversion and appropriate regulator/hose selection for safe operation.

Buying Guide: Choosing An LP Garage Heater With Thermostat

1. Heater Type And Venting

Understand the difference between vent-free (ventless) heaters, radiant units, tube heaters, and unit heaters. Vent-free appliances release combustion products into the room and rely on ODS safety features; they are efficient but need adequate ventilation per code. Tube and unit heaters often require flues or open-air placement and may offer broader coverage for larger spaces.

2. BTU Output vs. Garage Size

Select BTU output based on garage volume and insulation. Rough rule: poorly insulated or high-ceiling garages need more BTU. Typical ranges here: 30,000 BTU for up to ~1,000 sq. ft., 45,000 BTU for larger bays, and 80,000 BTU for big commercial or very large uninsulated spaces. Factor in insulation, door exposure, and desired warm-up time.

3. Thermostat Options And Control Precision

Thermostats can be built-in or external. Built-in thermostats provide integration and compact installation. External thermostats allow remote placement, programmable schedules, and smarter control. Verify compatibility if you plan to use a wall-mounted or line-voltage thermostat with a tube or unit heater.

4. Fuel Efficiency And Runtime

Compare fuel consumption rates or runtime at maximum BTU to estimate LP cylinder life. Radiant heaters often feel more efficient in intermittent use because they heat objects directly. Vent-free units typically convert more energy to usable heat but check local codes limiting vent-free use.

5. Safety Features

Look for ODS (oxygen depletion sensor), automatic shutoff on tip/over (for portable units), and certified listings (ETL/CSA). For vent-free installations, ODS is critical. For permanently mounted tube or unit heaters, ensure proper clearances and professional installation to meet code.

6. Installation Considerations

Some heaters require hardwiring, ceiling mounts, or gas-line hookups. Tube heaters and unit heaters may need suspension and clearance. Vent-free wall units typically require minimal structural change but must follow spacing and ventilation guidelines. Consider hiring a licensed technician for gas hookups and conversion kits.

7. Elevation And Performance

Heater performance can vary with elevation. Some models specify operation limits (for example, performance rated up to certain altitudes). If your garage is at high elevation, confirm the heater’s elevation rating or consult the manufacturer for adjustments.

8. Zoning And Heating Strategy

Decide whether you need whole-garage heating or zoned heat for work areas. Tube heaters and directed unit heaters can be aimed at workbenches, while radiant units provide local warmth where people stand. Thermostats help maintain consistent temperatures but consider multiple zones or supplemental electric options for fine control.

9. Compatibility With LP Conversion Kits

If choosing an NG unit with an LP conversion kit, confirm the kit is manufacturer-supplied and follow conversion instructions or use certified service. Conversion accuracy affects safety and efficiency.

10. Maintenance And Warranty

Review routine maintenance needs: burner cleaning, ignition batteries, and ODS checks. Check warranty length and what components are covered, especially for ignition systems and heat exchangers. Ease of access for annual inspection can reduce maintenance costs.

Comparison Perspectives

• Best For Small Garages: Compact ventless units with built-in thermostats provide direct heat and simple control.
• Best For Work Areas: Tube heaters or unit heaters that direct heat along benches or bays offer sustained coverage.
• Best For Comfort Feel: Radiant heaters warm people and objects directly, often perceived as more comfortable in drafty spaces.
• Best For Large Spaces: High-BTU unit heaters or multiple tube heaters scaled to volume deliver broader, more even warmth.
• Best For Simple Controls: Models with integrated thermostats or dedicated remote thermostats simplify temperature management.