Garage Heating Options With Built-In Or Adjustable Thermostats — This guide compares five natural gas heaters suitable for garages, focusing on thermostatic control, BTU output, installation type, and safety features. Use the summary table to compare coverage and thermostat availability at a glance.
| Product | BTU | Coverage | Thermostat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG | 80,000 BTU | Up To 2,000 Sq. Ft. | No (Thermostat Not Included) |
| ProCom MN300TBA-B Blue Flame | 30,000 BTU | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. | Yes (Built-In Control) |
| ProCom MN300TPA-B Infrared | 30,000 BTU | Up To 1,400 Sq. Ft. | Yes (Built-In Control) |
| Comfort Glow 30,000 BTU Vent-Free | 30,000 BTU | Up To 1,250 Sq. Ft. | Yes (Thermostat Included) |
| Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 Infrared Wall | 30,000 BTU | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. | No (Thermostat Not Listed) |
Mr. Heater Big Maxx 80,000 BTU
This 80,000 BTU unit heater is a high-capacity natural gas heater designed for large garages, workshops, and commercial spaces. The unit is a ceiling- or wall-mounted style that uses category 1 vertical or category 3 horizontal venting. A thermostat, hose, and regulator are not included, so the heater is commonly paired with an external thermostat or control system for automated temperature management.
- Included: Heater, 2 angle brackets, liquid propane conversion kit.
- Power: 80,000 BTU output, 120 V, 2.3 amps.
- Coverage: Up to 2,000 Sq. Ft. (manufacturer spec).
- Clearance: Minimum 8 ft. from floor to base of unit required.
- Venting: Category 1 vertical, Category 3 horizontal venting.
For garages requiring high BTU output, this unit is appropriate when paired with a compatible thermostat or motorized damper. Installation requires compliance with local venting codes and sufficient clearance for safe operation.
ProCom 30,000 BTU Blue Flame
The ProCom MN300TBA-B is a ventless blue flame natural gas heater with an integrated thermostat control and three heat settings (High/Medium/Low). It is intended for residential spaces and can be wall-mounted or placed on the floor using included base feet, which offers flexibility for garage layouts that allow ventless operation.
- BTU/Range: 30,000 Maximum BTU; up to 1,400 Sq. Ft.
- Thermostat: Built-in High/Medium/Low thermostat control.
- Installation: Wall mount or floor placement with included hardware.
- Design: Slim profile for compact spaces.
This ventless option offers direct room heating and built-in temperature control; verify local codes before installing in a garage due to ventless appliance regulations and ventilation needs.
ProCom 30,000 BTU Infrared
The ProCom MN300TPA-B uses infrared radiant heating to warm objects and people directly, rather than just heating air. It includes a thermostat control with multiple power settings and shares the same compact installation options as the blue flame model, allowing wall or floor mounting.
- BTU/Range: 30,000 Maximum BTU; up to 1,400 Sq. Ft.
- Thermostat: Built-in High/Medium/Low thermostat control.
- Technology: Infrared radiant heating for targeted warmth.
- Installation: Wall mount or base feet included.
Infrared models are frequently chosen for garages because they heat stored objects and occupants quickly, which can feel efficient in intermittently used spaces. Check ventilation and clearance recommendations for safe operation.
Comfort Glow 30,000 BTU Vent-Free
The Comfort Glow 30,000 BTU vent-free radiant heater is designed for indoor use and specifies a thermostat and wall mounting. It advertises high radiant efficiency and the option to convert to a floor-mounted configuration with a separate kit. The unit operates without electricity for burn control and pilot ignition.
- BTU/Range: 30,000 BTU; up to 1,250 Sq. Ft.
- Thermostat: Thermostat included for temperature control.
- Operation: No electricity required; piezo ignition.
- Installation: Wall mount; optional floor mounting kit available.
Vent-free units provide strong room heat and integrated thermostatic control. For garage use, confirm code compliance and ensure adequate ventilation and combustion air availability, especially in enclosed garages.
Dyna-Glo 30,000 BTU Infrared
The Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 is a 30,000 BTU infrared wall heater that radiates heat to objects and occupants. The product is natural gas ready and emphasizes infrared technology for effective object heating. A thermostat is not listed in the product features, so external thermostat control may be required for automated temperature regulation.
- BTU/Range: Up to 30,000 BTU; heats up to 1,000 Sq. Ft.
- Technology: Infrared radiant heating that warms surfaces first.
- Fuel: Natural gas ready; conversion not permitted per listing.
As a radiant wall heater, this model suits garages where direct, localized warmth is preferred. Pairing with a compatible thermostat or timed control can provide stable temperature management for intermittent garage use.
Buying Guide
Define Garage Heating Needs
Start by assessing garage size (square footage and ceiling height), insulation level, typical usage patterns (intermittent vs continuous), and whether a single or zoned heating solution is desired. Larger, poorly insulated garages require higher BTU output than small, insulated spaces.
BTU Sizing And Coverage
Calculate required BTUs by considering square footage and insulation: uninsulated spaces typically need 50–60 BTU per square foot, while insulated garages can require 30–40 BTU per square foot. Higher ceilings increase needed output. Match heater BTU rating to the target heating load; oversized units may cycle frequently without proper control.
Thermostat: Built-In Versus External
Built-in thermostats offer integrated control and simpler installation in many models. External thermostats or wall-mounted thermostats provide more precise placement for accurate temperature sensing away from heater-generated heat. For unit heaters with no thermostat, plan for a compatible external controller or line-voltage thermostat.
Vented, Vent-Free, And Unit Heaters
Vent-Free (Ventless) heaters release combustion byproducts into the room and often provide high efficiency and radiant comfort. Verify local codes and ensure sufficient combustion air. Direct vent models use sealed combustion and exhaust outdoors, improving indoor air quality. Unit heaters with venting (like the Big Maxx) are designed for large spaces and require proper flue/vent installation.
Radiant Infrared Versus Blue Flame
Infrared radiant heaters warm objects and people directly, providing quicker perceived warmth and efficient performance for intermittent use. Blue flameheaters warm the air and provide uniform ambient heating. Choose based on how the garage is used—task-oriented workspaces often benefit from infrared’s targeted heat.
Safety Features And Codes
Look for oxygen depletion sensors (ODS), automatic shut-off, sealed combustion, safety pilot systems, and listed clearances. Garage installations may require specific codes for venting, combustion air, and placement; always verify local building and fire codes prior to installation.
Installation And Clearance Requirements
Follow manufacturer minimums for clearance to combustibles and floor-to-base distances. Unit heaters that vent through walls or roofs need professional vent runs. Ceiling- or wall-mounted unit heaters demand structural support and appropriate gas line routing. Permits may be required for installation.
Fuel Compatibility And Conversion
Confirm the heater is natural gas ready and whether fuel conversion is permitted. Some models include conversion kits; others prohibit conversion. Ensure gas supply line capacity and pressure meet the heater’s requirements.
Thermostat Placement And Control Strategy
Place the thermostat away from direct heater airflow to avoid false readings. For garages with variable use, consider programmable schedules or smart thermostats with remote sensors to control temperature and reduce fuel consumption when the space is unoccupied.
Maintenance And Longevity
Regularly inspect burners, pilots, ignition systems, venting, and gas connections. Clean or vacuum grills and clear obstructions before winter. For vent-free units, monitor indoor air quality and perform periodic checks per the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Efficiency And Operating Cost Considerations
Compare how each technology delivers heat—radiant systems often feel warmer at lower air temperatures. Efficiency claims may vary; consider fuel consumption relative to needed runtime. Proper insulation and weatherproofing of the garage can reduce runtime and operating costs regardless of heater choice.
Noise, Placement, And Workspace Integration
Unit heaters with fans or blowers can produce noise; infrared and ventless radiant units are typically quieter. Position heaters to avoid blowing directly on workbenches or stored items and to reduce cold drafts near garage doors.
Matching Heater Type To Garage Use Cases
- Occasional Use (Hobbyist): Infrared or smaller vent-free units with thermostat control provide quick, targeted warmth.
- Frequent Use / Workshop: Radiant or unit heaters with higher BTU and thermostat automation maintain consistent temperatures.
- Large Uninsulated Garage: High-BTU vented unit heaters with external thermostats or staged heating systems offer required capacity and durability.
Compliance, Permits, And Professional Installation
Check local building codes for venting, combustion air, and vent-free appliance restrictions. Many installations require permits or professional gas and venting work. When in doubt, consult a licensed HVAC or gas technician for sizing and installation to ensure code compliance and safe operation.
Final Selection Checklist
- Confirm BTU rating matches garage heating load.
- Decide between built-in or external thermostat control.
- Verify venting type (vented vs vent-free) and local code allowances.
- Check for safety features such as ODS and sealed combustion.
- Ensure proper clearance and installation options for the chosen model.
- Plan for maintenance access and schedule periodic inspections.