7 Ways to Heat Your Garage in the Winter

Many of us consider our garages to be more than just a place to park our cars and store old junk. They serve as our workstations, allowing us to pursue our hobbies and DIY dreams. However, this does not always imply that they are the best location.  

When winter arrives, it can get very cold out in the garage, putting a damper on our craft. Most garages aren’t built to be warm havens in the winter. Your concrete garage is probably not the warmest place in your house. Stepping into or spending time in a frigid space, whether for vehicle storage or as a workshop, is not a pleasant experience. 

If you’ve been dealing with cold temperatures, there are a few options for keeping your garage warm. You don’t have to put up with a frozen garage all winter.   

Here are five different ways to heat your garage: 

1. Hook Up Space Heaters 
   
   Installing a space heater is a quick and simple way to keep your garage warm. You can select an electric heater, a gas heater, or a ceiling-mounted forced-air heating unit based on your needs. 
   
   While portable heaters can add warmth and raise the inside temperature by a few degrees, they can take a long time to heat the garage and aren’t a long-term solution. Choose a ceiling-mounted forced-air heating unit installed at a 45-degree angle for more even heat distribution. 
   
   There are numerous options available when it comes to selecting the best garage heater. Let’s look at some of the different types of heaters and what they can offer. 
   
   

• Forced Air Heater: This type of heater works by blowing hot air into your garage. They are available in both electric and gas models and can be connected directly to your home’s mainline. For many people, these are ideal; however, forced air heaters are not ideal for woodworkers. The circulating air easily spreads shavings and sawdust, which can be a major issue when staining, painting, or finishing. 
  
  

• Convection Heaters: These are the most versatile and widely used garage heaters. They do not produce dust like forced air heaters and can run on electricity, propane, or natural gas. The main disadvantage of these heaters is that they take a long time to heat up. You’ll also notice a larger increase in your electric bill than other options.  
  
  

• Infrared Heaters: These are low-intensity heaters that slowly heat the surrounding air, making your garage nice and toasty. They are slightly more energy-efficient than most heaters, providing some relief from winter heating bills. They are, however, taking a long time to heat up the garage.  
  
  

• Propane Heaters: Propane heaters are portable devices that run on standard propane tanks. These can quickly heat up and warm your workspace. They are also very inexpensive when compared to other types of heaters. All you have to do is keep them fueled.  
  
  

• Ductless Heating and Cooling: This is probably one of the best garage heating options. They are extremely energy efficient, simple to install, and quickly and efficiently heat. However, the installation of these systems can be quite costly. However, once you’ve made the initial investment, you’ll begin to see significant long-term savings on your electric bill.
  
  These are just a few of the most popular and effective electric or gas-powered heaters. But whichever you choose, ensure that you analyze the size of your garage and what BTU rating is required to properly heat it. 
  
  

2. Install Better Insulation 
   
   The first step in transforming your garage from an icebox into a warm working environment is to properly insulate it. Most garages lack insulation on their exterior walls, allowing cold air to enter from the outside. 
   
   It will be difficult to heat and maintain a comfortable temperature inside your garage if the walls are not finished. Installing insulation is a relatively inexpensive way to keep your garage warm and prevent heat from escaping.
   
   When installing the insulation, make sure it’s secure and snug and has no gaps. Along with wall insulation, you might want to consider installing garage door insulation with spray foam, batting or foam board. 
   
   

3. Weatherstrip and Caulk 
   
   Sealing and replacing any missing or worn weatherstripping and caulk in your garage will help keep warm air in and prevent heat loss. Pay special attention to the following areas when weatherstripping and caulking your space:  

• Garage door frames 
• Gaskets 
• Windows
  
  This simple DIY fix can make your garage much more comfortable during the winter months.
   

4. Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump
   
   While the initial cost is higher, a ductless mini split heat pump is an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat your garage. It can be installed in a variety of locations, including the ceiling suspension and the floor. 
   
   Despite their higher initial cost, heat pumps provide year-round heating and cooling while being easier to install and less expensive than heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. 
   
   

5. Radiant Heat Flooring 
   
   Radiant heat flooring is an option to consider if you are renovating or building a new garage. Despite its high initial cost and the need for professional installation, this flooring solution provides even heat distribution. This heating solution is also adaptable, as it can be installed in walls and ceilings. 

6. Radiant Heat Ceiling Panels
   
   Radiant heat ceiling panels are another excellent option for garage heating. These are sleek, streamlined panels that can quickly warm up your garage without costing you a fortune. They are also relatively inexpensive to begin with. If having a neat and attractive garage is important to you, these should be near the top of your list of warming options. 

7. Install a Wood Burning Stove
   
   If properly maintained, a traditional wood-burning stove can be a great source of heat in your garage. And it’s the most cost-effective option in the long run, especially if you chop your own firewood. 
   
   However, you must first check with your local community to ensure that you have all of the necessary permits to install and operate one. These will also necessitate the most regular maintenance due to the need to keep a clean chimney and flue. 

Interested in Installing an Insulated Garage Door?  

Right Way Garage Doors has the residential doors you need if you want to install a new garage door to help heat your space. We have been providing aluminum, steel, and wood doors to residents of North California and the Bay Area for over 40 years. 

No matter your style or needs, we can help you find the perfect match. Call us at (877) 479-3667 or fill out our contact form to learn more.