Finding the right small natural gas garage heater means balancing size, BTU output, venting type, and installation needs. The table below summarizes five compact, widely used natural gas heaters suitable for garages and small workshops. Each selection highlights core specifications to help narrow choices quickly.
| Product | BTU | Type | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG | 80,000 | Unit Heater (Vented) | Up To 2,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 | 30,000 | Infrared Wall Heater | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Reznor UDXC-45 | 45,000 | Ceiling/Wall Unit | Small Commercial/Garage |
| ProCom MN300TBA-B | 30,000 | Ventless Blue Flame | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. |
| Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU | 17,000 | Direct Vent Wall Heater | Up To 570 Sq. Ft. |
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- Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
- Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 30,000 BTU Infrared Wall Heater
- Reznor UDXC-45 Natural Gas Ceiling Mount Heater
- ProCom MN300TBA-B Ventless Blue Flame Space Heater
- Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Wall Heater
- Buying Guide: How To Choose A Small Natural Gas Garage Heater
Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater
Key Features: Includes heater with two angle brackets and LP conversion kit; thermostat, hose, and regulator not included. Dimensions 29.33” L x 15.50” W x 26.37” H. Rated 80,000 BTU and designed for natural gas. Coverage roughly for up to 2,000 sq. ft. Electrical spec: 120 V, 2.3 amps. Venting: Category 1 vertical or category 3 horizontal.
This unit is a compact-format ceiling or wall-mounted unit heater intended for larger small garages and workshops that require higher BTU output. Installation requires maintaining at least 8 ft. clearance from floor to base of unit for safe operation and proper airflow. The package includes basic mounting brackets but excludes thermostat and gas hookups, so professional installation is commonly recommended for compliance and safe venting.
Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 30,000 BTU Infrared Wall Heater
Key Features: Natural gas ready (no fuel conversion). Uses infrared technology to radiate heat to objects and people rather than only heating air. Rated at 30,000 BTU for coverage up to about 1,000 sq. ft.
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The infrared design is useful in garages where doors open frequently or where targeted warming of work areas is preferred. Infrared heaters typically produce faster perceived warmth at lower air temperature, because they heat surfaces and occupants directly. This model mounts on the wall and is intended for indoor, vented installations. Fuel conversion is not permitted, simplifying fuel compatibility considerations but limiting flexibility between natural gas and propane.
Reznor UDXC-45 Natural Gas Ceiling Mount Heater
Key Features: Rated 45,000 BTU with two heating output levels (low fire 26,145 BTU, high fire 37,350 BTU). Achieves approximately 83% thermal efficiency. Designed for ceiling mount with threaded-nut retainers at four suspension points; mounting sold separately.
The UDXC-45 is positioned between small residential heaters and larger commercial units, offering a balance of footprint and capacity. The forced air, low-static propeller fan aids distribution in small to medium garages. This model is designed for indoor use and is suited for workshop spaces that require modest, distributed heat rather than direct infrared radiation. Installation flexibility includes ceiling or wall mounting with appropriate brackets.
ProCom MN300TBA-B Ventless Blue Flame Space Heater
Key Features: Ventless blue flame design producing up to 30,000 BTU. Provided thermostat control with High/Medium/Low settings. Heats up to approximately 1,400 sq. ft. Includes wall mount and base feet for floor placement.
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The ventless blue flame approach maximizes usable heat in tight spaces because no external venting is required. This can simplify installation in smaller garages, but it also means combustion byproducts are released into the indoor space. The unit includes a thermostat for local temperature control and multiple mounting options, enabling placement flexibility. Local codes and safety guidelines must be checked because some jurisdictions restrict ventless gas appliances.
Comfort Glow 17,000 BTU Direct Vent Wall Heater
Key Features: Direct vent design with sealed burn system and matchless piezo ignition. Safety pilot with built-in pressure regulator that stops gas flow if pilot is extinguished. Rated at 17,000 BTU, heating up to about 570 sq. ft. Dimensions approximately 20″ H x 27.3″ W x 6.5″ D.
This compact direct vent wall heater is designed for tight spaces and prioritizes sealed combustion to avoid indoor combustion gasing. The sealed system and safety pilot enhance safety where venting to the outside is available. The modest BTU rating makes this unit suitable for single-car garages, small workshops, or workbenches where even, consistent low-level heat is preferred.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Small Natural Gas Garage Heater
Space Size And BTU Needs: Calculate your garage or workshop volume and insulation level. As a rule of thumb, lightly insulated spaces need roughly 40–60 BTU per square foot to maintain comfortable temperature; better insulated spaces need less. For small single-car garages, units in the 10,000–30,000 BTU range are often adequate. For larger or poorly insulated spaces, consider 45,000 BTU or higher.
Vented vs Ventless: Direct vent and unit heaters expel combustion gases outdoors, improving indoor air quality. Ventless (blue flame) models maximize heat output without external venting but release combustion byproducts indoors and may be restricted by code. Check local regulations and ventilation requirements before choosing a ventless model.
Heat Delivery Type: Infrared heaters warm objects and people directly and perform well in drafty spaces or where doors open frequently. Forced air unit heaters distribute warm air throughout the garage and can be more comfortable for general heating. Choose infrared for targeted warmth and forced air for whole-room circulation.
Mounting And Footprint: Wall-mounted models save floor space; ceiling-mounted unit heaters free wall space and can distribute heat over a larger area. Verify mounting hardware and clearances. Compact wall units often fit under shelves or above workbenches; ceiling units require suspended mounting points and attention to airflow around fixtures.
Installation Requirements: Natural gas supply line size and pressure must meet appliance requirements. Some units include conversion kits for LP, while others prohibit fuel conversion. Electrical requirements vary—some heaters need only a pilot while others require 120 V power for fans or controls. Consider professional installation for gas connections and venting to ensure safety and code compliance.
Safety Features: Look for sealed combustion, oxygen depletion sensors, safety pilots, and overheat protection. Direct vent models with sealed combustion are recommended where indoor air quality is a priority. Ventless models require good ventilation and adherence to local rules. Install carbon monoxide detectors in any occupied space using gas appliances.
Thermostat And Controls: Built-in thermostats allow local temperature control; compatibility with external or programmable thermostats can improve efficiency and comfort. Consider units that support thermostatic control if you want automated temperature regulation and reduced fuel use.
Efficiency And Operating Modes: Higher thermal efficiency reduces fuel consumption for a given heat output. Some units offer multi-stage firing (high/low) to match demand and improve efficiency. Compare efficiency figures or staged output to determine the best match for variable conditions.
Noise And Air Movement: Forced-air units use fans that create low-level noise and air movement. Infrared and blue-flame models are generally quieter. If the garage doubles as a workspace, evaluate noise levels and choose units with low-static fans or quieter operation if noise is a concern.
Compliance And Local Codes: Always confirm local building codes, fuel appliance restrictions, and venting rules before purchase. Some municipalities limit ventless appliances or require specific clearances and vent materials. Obtaining permits and using licensed HVAC professionals for installation ensures safety and compliance.
Maintenance And Longevity: Regular maintenance includes filter cleaning (if applicable), checking vent integrity, inspecting burners and pilots, and annual professional service. Consider availability of replacement parts, service manuals, and brand support when evaluating long-term ownership.
Comparison Perspectives:
- Small Single-Car Garage: Consider direct vent wall heaters or compact ventless units for footprint constraints; prioritize sealed combustion if possible.
- Two-Car Garage / Large Workshop: Mid-range unit heaters (30k–45k BTU) or ceiling-mounted units distribute heat more effectively across larger volumes.
- Drafty Spaces / Frequent Door Openings: Infrared heaters provide faster perceived warmth to people and work surfaces and are often more efficient in these conditions.
- Minimal Installation Complexity: Ventless models reduce venting work but may be restricted by code; direct vent models require exterior wall or roof penetrations but offer cleaner indoor air.
Final Selection Tips: Match BTU capacity to insulation and square footage, confirm venting type against local code, choose the heat delivery method that fits your usage pattern (infrared vs forced air vs blue flame), and plan for professional installation when gas lines or venting modifications are required.
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