The best 120v electric garage heater is one of the most convenient, cost-effective garage space heating options to keep your garage or a small garage warm throughout winter.
Often small in size and either installed permanently or equipped with ergonomic handles for easy movement, most of these heaters deliver more than enough heat to keep an average-sized space warm without posing any safety concerns.
My Overall #1 Rated Pick
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This guide rounds up some of the best 120-volt electric garage heaters. We’ll also teach you how to choose the best product from the lot. Let’s begin with the reviews;
IN A HURRY? HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS
- Dr Infrared Heater DR998, 1,500-Watt Heater – Best Overall Garage Heater
- NewAir G73 Hardwired Electric Garage Heater – Best Powerful Garage Heater
- King PSH125T Portable Shop Heater – Best Portable Garage Heater
- Black + Decker Utility 1500-Watt Heater – Best Ceramic Garage Heater
- Homegear 1500-Watt Infrared Portable Electric Heater – Best Stylish Garage Heater
- Patton PUH680-N-U Milk House Utility Heater – Best Medium Space Garage Heater
Product Reviews
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Dr Infrared Heater DR998, 1,500-Watt Heater
- Can heat up a large room with Dual Heating System: Infrared Quartz tube + PTC. Tip-over protection and Overheat protection.Heating Coverage:400 sq.ft
- Built-in humidifier produces a cool mist to add much needed humidity to dry, winter air
- Oscillation function distributes warmth throughout your entire area evenly and faster.Can be operated as a fan with humidifier or without , good for summer time
- Electronic Thermostat: range 50 to 85 degrees. Uses water bottle instead of water tank. Lifetime filter can be removed easily and cleaned. Cannot harm children or pets. Filter can be cleaned with warm water or a vacuum once removed from the back of the unit
- The DR-998 Portable Infrared Space Heater is a 1500W portable heater featuring a dual-heating system with both infrared and ceramic heating elements inside. This heater comes with a Humidifier attachment as well as a remote for convenient use. The heater can be used with or without the humidifier, the humidifier can be run with or without the heating portion of the heater turned on, and the heater can also be run in fan-only mode. It comes with 4 durable caster wheels that allow the heater to move effortlessly from room to room.
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Dr infrared heater DR998 is our best electric garage heater 120v. It is an Elite Series all-in-one heater, humidifier, air conditioner, and oscillation fan heater.
It’s the first infrared light energy Heater that combines ultrasonic mist vapor and built-in oscillation function to boost heat transfer rate while producing a new level of therapeutic comfort.
The DR998 delivers 60% heater heat more heat than other 1500-watt electric heaters thanks to a dual-heating (quartz tube + PTC) system that provides the fastest heat transfer rate.
It has three heat low heat settings – Auto, Low, and High and features an adjustable thermostat with a range of 50 to 86F. In addition, a built-in ultrasonic humidifier gently adds moisture to the area you’re heating.
Other features of the DR998 include a 1-12-hour timer, durable casters, overheating & tip-over protection, and quiet operation.
The DR998 radiant heater is rated at 12.6 amps and plugs into a standard 120-volt 3-prong power outlet. In addition, it measures 16 x 13 x 15 inches, weighs 26 lbs, and comes with a 3-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- Dual heating system
- 3- Heat settings – Auto, High, and Low
- 1 to 12-hour timer function
- Delivers 60% more heat
- Energy saving mode
- It doesn’t have too much noise
Cons
- The 1,000 sq ft rating is misleading
2. NewAir G73 Hardwired Electric Garage Heater
- [RUGGED EXTERIOR BUILT TO LAST] - The hard-shell exterior is made from heavy-duty material that is built to last, especially in tough climates and work conditions.
- [SAFETY FEATURES FOR PEACE OF MIND] - This heater is considered one of the safest on the market and is our customers tried-and-true favorite. It is ETL certified for electrical safety, and comes with overheating protection, so rest assured you have one of the most trusted heaters available.
- [HARDWIRED TO YOUR 30 AMP BREAKER] - The NewAir G73 doesn’t come with any of the maintenance issues of a propane heater. Once your heater is hardwired to your 30-amp breaker, your warm workspace is only a switch away.
- [AMBIENT HEAT CONTROL WITH ADJUSTABLE LOUVERS] - The 240 Volt heater brings direct heat anywhere in your garage with the adjustable louvers and tilt head. If you happen to be sitting in one location while you work, you can make sure the heat is sent to the exact spot you need. Or you can turn the louvers completely open to allow heat to travel everywhere.
- [MOUNTING HARDWARE INCLUDED] - Comes with a mounting bracket for you to place it on the wall or ceiling of your workspace. This way you can stay toasty and safe with a heater hidden from busy work areas.
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The G73 is one of NewAir’s best garage heaters. It is built from durable stainless steel, packs 17,000 BTU of heating power, and can warm up to 500 square feet.
Better still, it’s a very energy efficient infrared heater that heats up quickly and distributes the heat evenly throughout the intended space.
It comes with a built-in thermostat for easy and accurate control of the temperature in your working area. This fixed electric space heater is permanently installed, either wall mounted, or ceiling mounted.
A swivel bracket is included to make it easy to direct heat where you need it most. The package also includes a mounting bracket to make installation easy.
The garage heater is hardwired (not a plug-in) to eliminate maintenance issues. The G73 ceiling mounted heater moves warm air at 200 cubic feet per minute (CFM).
Moreover, the electric space heater measures 9 x 9.5 x 14 inches and weighs 15 pounds. It runs on 30 amperes and is UL Listed as a mark of safety.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Built-in adjustable thermostat
- Swivel and mounting brackets included
- UL Listed
- Ceiling or wall mounted heater
- Easy to install
Cons
- No remote control
3. King PSH125T Portable Shop Heater
- Built-in thermostat On/Off switch with power indicator 6 foot cord with 15 A grounded plug Adjustable tilt control with locking had nut Durable scratch and rust resistant finish Comfort grip handle Auto-reset safety limit ensures the heater shuts off if an unsafe condition occurs Stainless steel heating element Permanently lubricated motor ensures long life
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The King PSH125T is another durable, affordable car garage heating option with a rugged portable heater ideal for supplemental heating in shops and worksites.
It features a flow-through design where heat efficiently moves around the entire garage as air is pulled from the back of the 120v heater and discharged at the front.
A Super Stop high-temperature limit technology shuts off the infrared heater whenever overheating is detected. A built-in adjustable thermostat, meanwhile, allows for convenient, ambient temperature control.
The PSH125T comes with a 120-volt-rated, 6-foot grounded cord that ensures maximum portability.
Its other features include a lighted On/Off switch, nichrome quartz heating elements, a permanently lubricated motor, and a comfort grip handle with adjustable tilt control.
The PSH125T is small at 15 x 13 x 11 inches and incredibly lightweight at just 10 lbs. It plugs into a standard 5-15 amp, 120-volt power outlet.
Pros
- Adjustable tilt control
- Rated 1500 watts of power
- Auto-reset safety limit
- Infrared light
Cons
- Works best in very small garage spaces
4. Black + Decker Utility 1500-Watt Heater
- CERAMIC UTILITY HEATER – This ceramic utility heater is compact but powerful. At 13.8 x 13.9 x 12.8 in., it fits in your dorm or office, bedroom, basement, garage, RV shelf - just about anywhere you need extra heat.
- HEATER + FAN COMBO – Providing fast heating for small spaces, this heater weighs 10.9 lbs. + has a carry handle, so it can easily be moved. Adjustable tilt airflow outlet allows maximum air circulation throughout the room to cover a larger area.
- MANUAL ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT CONTROL – Set it to LOW HEAT or HIGH HEAT (1500 Watts), or to FAN. Just plug it in with the power cord and get warm!
- DESIGNED FOR SAFETY – Overheat protection lets you rest easy while staying comfortable. This utility heater has an adjustable thermostat with a 12 hour timer.
- QUALITY GUARANTEED – BLACK+DECKER products come with a 1-year warranty, so you can be confident about your purchase.
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another extremely portable heater ideal for small areas such as garages, workshops, and basements, the Black + Decker is a beautiful electric heater and a good substitute for a garage stove.
The rugged cabinet design makes it easy to fit into a small garage, while integrated carry handles allow easy movement from room to room.
The Decker’s lower handle tilts to deliver adjustable airflow. This way, you can direct heat in a particular direction for increased efficiency.
High (1,500 watts) and Low (750 watts) heat settings deliver even greater heating efficiency. In addition, a forced fan heater mode is available.
The garage heater is for both indoor and outdoor use as an air conditioner whenever necessary. The Black + Decker runs on an aluminum PTC heating element for safe, powerful heat transfer.
In addition, it comes with overheating protection to safeguard its users in case of any power surges. The unit measures 15 x 13 x 14 inches and weighs a mere 13 lbs.
Pros
- 1500 watts heating power
- Carry handle for portability
- Automatic overheating shutoff
- Fan-only mode available
Cons
- Best suited to tiny spaces
5. Homegear 1500-Watt Infrared Portable Electric Heater
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The HomeGear is a cabinet space heater recommended for use in garages, sheds, and workshops. One of the reasons it’s very popular is that it’s a micathermic heater, which is always extremely energy efficient.
The Homegear combines Mica and Quartz infrared heaters tubes to deliver powerful, uninterrupted heat.
The 1500-watt (5,100 BTU) heater can work well even in spaces as large as 1,500 square feet, thanks to the high efficiency.
A blower fan heater helps to push the heat fast and evenly throughout the intended area. In addition, the electric heater features a built-in digital thermostat for temperature control.
Additionally, it has an LED display that allows for convenient climate monitoring. Overheating shutoff technology protects you and the home in case elements of the infrared heaters become too hot.
The best 120v electric garage heater is ETL and ETL certified and requires a minimum 13A circuit. It measures 12 x 13 x 17 inches, weighs 11.5lbs, and comes with a 71-inch cable.
Pros
- 5,100 BTU
- Ideal for up to 1,500 Sq. Ft.
- Dual Mica and Quartz heating
- ETL and cETL certified
- Included remote control
Cons
- Kicks on and off too often
6. Patton PUH680-N-U Milk House Utility Heater
- Milk-house utility heater with durable design and rugged steel housing
- Quiet, fan-forced convection coil heat; automatic thermostat
- Low and high settings; front guards and auto shut-off if tipped over
- Great for heating open areas like the basement, garage, or workroom
- 1000 & 1500 Watt heat settings
Last update on 2023-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Finally, the Patton PUH680-N-U is a somewhere-in-the-middle garage heater that offers the incredible heat output of cabinet-style electric heaters while providing the extreme mobility of smaller garage heaters.
Also known as the Milk House, it has a rugged, all-metal housing for durability and front guards to protect the portable space heater in case of tip over.
Two heat settings – High (1,500 watts) and Low (1,000 watts) allow you to choose the most comfortable heating level.
A digital thermostat makes climate control even more convenient as you can select a precise heating temperature.
The best electric heater uses a blower fan for fast and even distribution of heat. Safety protection comes in the form of a tip-over switch and high-visibility infrared light.
At just 5.74 lbs, the Milk House conventional heaters are the lightest product on this list. It measures 10.3 x 7.7 x 14.7 inches and is UL Listed.
Pros
- Rugged, durable steel housing
- Quiet operation, fan-forced convective heating
- Automatic thermostat
- Multiple safety features
Cons
- Produces a burning smell
- It can get a bit loud
Education: What You Need to Know Before Buying
With the electrical heater reviews covered, let’s now focus on choosing the best 120v garage heater for your application. The following considerations should help you make an informed decision.
Is 120-Volt Enough?
To be honest, a 120v electric garage heater is a fairly small-sized heater. So only buy this type of heater for small spaces. For garages (or an area) larger than 30 x 30 feet, you’d need something bigger.
You’ll especially need a bigger infrared heater if the area is poorly insulated. A 220-volt electric heater would be ideal in some larger applications.
However, remember that 220-volt electric heaters are designed for commercial applications. They generate a lot of heat. If you’re dealing with a medium-sized garage, a possible solution would be two 120-volt space heaters.
Also important to note is that 120-volt power outlets can take up to 20 amps. Beyond that point, safety becomes an issue.
Therefore, if you’re dealing with a heavy load (more amps), check if the garage or the area you intend to heat has two circuit breakers. If there’s only one breaker, it’s advisable to call an electrician to help with some wiring.
Types of 120v Garage Heater
There are two broad ways to categorize electric garage heaters (no matter the BTU rating) – by mode of heating and by portability. With regards to portability, there are two subcategories; portable and fixed.
Portable heaters are light units that can be moved around with ease. Often, they stand on feet and can be placed in any location as long as there’s sufficient clearance.
These heaters are also some of the easiest to use, mainly because no wiring is required. In many cases, even assembly isn’t required.
Upon purchasing the infrared heater, all you have to do is find the right spot for it, plug it into the proper outlet, and turn it on to begin heating. The majority of electric garage heaters 120v fall in this category.
On the other hand, fixed electric garage heaters are either wall mounted or ceiling mounted. In most cases, the garage heaters are also meant to be hardwired to the home heating system.
As such, professional installation might be required. With regards to the mode of heating, there are three main subcategories, including radiant, convective, and micathermic.
-
Radiant Heaters
The most popular heating mode among electric garage heaters, radiant heating, involves electromagnetic waves to heat objects.
The waves, which carry heat energy, transfer the energy to objects they encounter on their path.
This is different from convective heating, where the heat produced is transferred to the surrounding air such that objects (including you) absorb the heat from the warm air.
Since radiant heat is only transferred to objects and not the surrounding warm air, the heating mode is very efficient, especially in a large garage.
Radiant heaters also generate heat quickly. The only downside is that they are more expensive than comparable convective and conductive models. Infrared garage heaters are the most common type of radiant heaters.
-
Convective Heaters
In convective heating, a current is passed through a high-resistance electric element. As the element heats up, it releases some of the heat to the air passing through the electric heater.
The hot air is then pushed out of the unit and into the entire garage while cold air enters the unit to be warmed.
In some cases, the movement of cold air into the portable garage space heater and warm air out of the electric heater happens naturally through convection (thus convective heaters).
However, to accelerate the process, most of the 120v heaters employ built-in fans to blow air out and distribute it evenly throughout the entire garage.
-
Micathermic (Mica) Heaters
Mica heaters are different in three ways. First, they don’t have a blower. Secondly, the heating element is more powerful than that used in convection heaters.
Lastly, and most importantly, the heating element is surrounded by a special heat-conducting stone known as mica (thus the name micathermic).
Mica plays a vital role in the working of a micathermic heater. It helps the infrared heater to relay heat from the heating element to different areas and keep the room warm.
Additionally, mica produces electromagnetic waves when heated. These waves are used to further heat up the room. In the end, therefore, you end up with both convective and radiant heat.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Garage Heaters
Since 120-volt heater for your garage comes in a wide range of styles and options, you must make your choice wisely. We recommend that you prioritize the following considerations;
1. Wattage/BTU
Just because you’re buying 120v electric garage heaters doesn’t mean that all the units come in one size. On the contrary, 120-volt electric heaters come in many different sizes.
Most are rated at 1,500 watts, but you’ll easily come across models rated at 1,200 watts, 2,500 watts, 4,000 watts, and so forth.
Some are also rated in British Thermal Units (BTU) – one (1) watt = 3.41 BTU. The greater the wattage or BTU value, the more heat output the electric heater delivers.
2. Size of the garage
How much garage floor space are you looking to heat? Is it 300 square feet, 500 square feet, or perhaps more or less?
A standard 120-volt heater for your garage rated at 1,500 watts (approximately 5,200 BTU) is ideal for spaces between 400 and 600 square feet.
The coverage also depends on factors such as insulation, ceiling height, and how much heat needed. The good news is that electric garage heaters display the recommended coverage area on the product label to help you make the right choice.
3. Ease of installation
You get to choose from portable and fixed (ceiling or wall mounted) installation options. Unfortunately, fixed 120v electric garage heaters are more difficult to install.
Moreover, since they’re often hardwired, you might need to hire a professional electrician, which is additional maintenance costs.
A portable model would be ideal if you are not prepared to spend significant time and money on installation.
4. Convenience controls
Features such as digital displays and remote control make it much more convenient to control the climate in the garage space or floor space you’re heating.
An adjustable thermostat is another control to consider. Also, check if the portable space heater has a timer function. Timers allow you to program the heating for the desired period, say a few hours.
Once the set period ends, the electric heater goes off automatically.
5. Safety features
Finally, make sure that the electric heater is built for safe use. One of a safe electric garage heater hallmarks is certification or listing by a recognized laboratory such as the UL, CSA, or ETL.
Aside from certifications, check for safety features such as anti-tip protection, overheating protection, and a cool-to-touch exterior.
Read Also: Best Waste Oil Heaters Reviews
Electric Garage Heater 120v Maintenance
After you buy the Heater, the next step is to keep it working optimally for a long time. As such, maintenance is imperative. The following tips should help keep your Heater in top shape.
-
Dusting
A lot of dust and other particles will likely settle on the 120v heater during use. Dust it once a week to remove any foreign particles.
-
Remove grime
Use a damp microfiber towel and a little dishwashing liquid to wipe away the grime.
-
Vacuum
For garage heater 120v with vents or grilles, vacuuming regularly will help clear airflow. The same applies to fan heaters.
-
Wipe heat reflectors
Radiant heaters often use a reflecting surface to direct heat. Unfortunately, these surfaces become dusty too. Periodically, unscrew or unclip the grille protecting the reflector plate and use a towel to dust off the plate.
-
Remove rust
The reflector surface can also catch rust, especially if not dusted regularly. Use rust remover spray or scrub the surface to remove the rust.
Remember to turn off the Heater and allow it to cool down before you begin any maintenance activities.
Final Thoughts
Finding great best electric garage heater 120v shouldn’t be difficult. Just make sure you’re choosing the right type (radiant, convective, or micathermic) while keeping portability in mind.
Also, take into account the wattage (or BTU), convenience controls, and safety. Finally, to keep the Heater in top shape and optimally functioning for a long time, dust, vacuum, and wipe the electric heater regularly.
