The Mr. Heater Big Maxx is a highly rated, cost-effective unit heater primarily used for garages, workshops, and barns. Reviewers consistently praise its fast heating, quiet operation, and straightforward installation. It operates on natural gas but includes a kit for easy liquid propane (LP) conversion.
The Unit Heaters are 80% efficient.
The best garage heater depends on your setup. The Heat Storm 6000-Watt 240V is the top electric choice for smart app control and easy ceiling mounting. For large, uninsulated spaces, the Mr. Heater 40,000 BTU Radiant Propane Heater is ideal, while the Modine "Hot Dawg" series is the gold standard for natural gas.
To heat a 20x20 (400 sq ft) garage, you generally need between 15,000 to 30,000 BTUs. The exact number depends heavily on your local climate, ceiling height, and insulation:
To heat a 24x24 foot (576 sq. ft.) garage, you will generally need between 30,000 and 45,000 BTUs. The exact amount depends heavily on your local climate, ceiling height, and insulation levels.
An uninsulated garage door is perhaps the biggest culprit for heat loss in your garage, as there is no barrier to slow the heat transfer out of your garage. In order to protect your garage from heat loss, you need a door with insulation.
The cheapest way to heat a garage depends on your setup, but insulation is the most cost-effective first step. Once insulated, the cheapest upfront method is a portable propane or electric space heater. For long-term running costs, a permanently installed natural gas heater or ductless mini-split is the most affordable.
Running a 1500-watt (1.5 kW) heater for 24 hours consumes 36 kWh of electricity. Nationwide, this typically costs between $𝟑.𝟔𝟎 and $𝟖.𝟔𝟒 per day, depending on your local energy rates and how often the heater's thermostat cycles the heating element on and off.
A 20-pound propane tank will last approximately 10 to 14 hours of continuous use on a 30,000 BTU heater running on its highest setting.
A 250-gallon propane tank (which holds roughly 200 usable gallons due to the 80% fill rule) typically lasts 1 to 2 months for a household using it for central heating, cooking, and water heating during winter. If used only for cooking and water heating, the tank can last 6–10 months.
Yes, in terms of direct fuel-to-heat cost and warmth, propane is generally cheaper than standard electric baseboard heating. Propane also generates much hotter air (120∘F120 raised to the composed with power F120∘F to 140∘F140 raised to the composed with power F140∘F) compared to standard electric heat pumps, which blow air closer to body temperature (95∘F95 raised to the composed with power F95∘F).
Consumer Reports tests space heaters primarily on room heating ability, spot heating, and strict fire and safety criteria, such as overheat protection and tipping tests. Highly rated models often cost around $75 to $100 and feature auto-climate control and tip-over shut-offs.
Heater Big Maxx Unit Heaters carry a 3 year limited warranty and factory reconditioned units carry a 90 day limited warranty. Limited warranties include coverage for product and/or parts replacement but does not include servicing product.
The "best" heater company depends on what kind of heater you are looking for. Leading brands consistently top lab tests for space and portable heating based on performance, safety features, and value.
In most homes, Heating and Cooling (HVAC) systems drive the highest energy costs, accounting for nearly 40% to 50% of your total electricity bill. Following these, the appliances that run up your bill the most include water heaters, refrigerators, and laundry machines.
A 1500-watt heater typically heats a room up to 150 square feet (as a primary heat source) or up to 250 square feet (if used as supplementary heat alongside a central system). This capacity is ideal for small to medium-sized bedrooms, home offices, or dorms.
The cheapest heaters to run are generally low-wattage personal heaters, such as halogen heaters or, for larger spaces, oil-filled radiators and infrared heaters that feature, or can be used with, adjustable thermostats to regulate energy consumption. Energy-efficient personal heaters like the Comfort Zone CZ35E are cost-effective choices for localized heating.
Because they do not use standard grid electricity or conventional electric and gas furnaces, the Amish heat their homes using off-grid, self-reliant methods. The most common systems include wood- or coal-burning stoves, propane and kerosene heaters, and natural airflow home designs.
The absolute cheapest way to heat a garage is by first insulating and sealing it to retain your ambient heat, and then using a natural gas or portable propane heater for targeted, occasional warmth. For frequent use, a permanently installed ductless mini-split heat pump provides the lowest ongoing operating costs.
Garage walls often lack drywall, making the exterior siding the only form of insulation. Since garages rarely have a dedicated heat source, even with insulation and proper sealing, they'll still be chilly when it's cold outside.
It takes time for your home to warm up and cool down. If you're not sure how long it takes, try turning the heating on about 30 minutes before you need it. You should turn it off 30 minutes before you'll stop needing it.
Check your home for pipes in areas that might be prone to freezing, such as crawl spaces, unheated rooms, basements, garages, and exterior walls.