Choosing a 30 amp garage heater often means selecting a 240V electric unit rated near 5,000–5,600 watts or a hard-wired 5,000W model requiring a 30A circuit. Below is a quick comparison of five relevant models that fit common 30A wiring setups and are designed for garages, workshops, and similar spaces.
| Product | Power / Voltage | Mount | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr Infrared Heater DR-988A | 5600W / 240V | Portable With NEMA 6-30P Cord | NEMA 6-30R Required |
| NewAir 5600W Portable Electric Garage Heater | 5600W / 240V | Portable Floor Unit | Thermostat & Auto-Fan Control |
| Dura Heat EWH5510 | 5000W / 240V | Hard-Wired / Ceiling or Wall | Remote + Thermostat, 30A Hard-Wired |
| TEMPWARE 5000-Watt Ceiling Mount | 5000W / 240V | Ceiling / Wall / Floor | 3 Heat Levels, ETL Certified |
| Comfort Zone CZ220BK 5,000W | 5000W / 240V | Ceiling-Mount Hard-Wired | Adjustable Louvers, Overheat Protection |
Dr Infrared Heater DR-988A Garage Shop 208/240-Volt
This model is a high-power portable option rated at 5600 watts for 240V circuits. It ships with a NEMA 6-30P power cord, so a compatible NEMA 6-30R outlet (250V 30A) is required for plug-and-play operation.
Key features listed include the need for 240-Volt supply and the specific outlet type. The unit is appropriate where a 30A receptacle is available and users prefer a portable heater that can be moved rather than permanently mounted.
Installation considerations: confirm your garage receptacle matches NEMA 6-30R and that the circuit is dedicated to the heater. Hard-wiring the unit is not the intended connection method unless an electrician modifies it to code.
Newair 5600W Portable Electric Garage Heater
The NewAir heater delivers 5,600 watts of fan‑forced heat designed to cover up to about 600 sq. ft. It features a rugged steel exterior and a built-in thermostat with automatic fan control.
Its features include auto-fan temperature control and a carrying handle for portability. The control system maintains set temperatures by cycling the fan and heating elements.
Electrical note: a 5600W draw on 240V implies roughly 23–24A, commonly supplied via a 30A 240V circuit for margin and code compliance. Confirm plug type and cord configuration prior to installation or use.
Dura Heat EWH5510 Electric Forced Air Heater With Remote
The Dura Heat EWH5510 is a hard-wired 240V, 5,000W garage heater that specifies a 30A design and requires professional installation. It lists coverage up to 750 sq. ft. and includes a remote and LED thermostat adjustable between 45–99°F.
Features emphasize the unit’s hard-wired 30A configuration and the need for professional installation. The remote control and digital thermostat allow precise setpoint control and on/off convenience from the workspace.
Because it’s hard-wired, confirm breaker size, conduit/wiring route, and mounting location meet local electrical and building codes prior to installation.
TEMPWARE Electric Garage Heater, 5000-Watt Ceiling Mount
TEMPWARE’s ceiling-mount heater is a multi‑position 5,000W unit with three heat settings (3,000W / 4,000W / 5,000W) and adjustable louvers to direct airflow. It’s ETL certified and designed for wall, floor, or ceiling installation.
Features include a maximum BTU rating and a compact, space-saving design. The adjustable output settings allow matching heat to room size and electrical circuit capability.
Installation options: the model lists hard-wired 240V operation. If you have a 30A 240V circuit, verify the breaker and wiring are sized accordingly and that the adjustable settings align with available amp capacity.
Comfort Zone Hard-Wired Ceiling Mount Garage Electric Space Heater
The Comfort Zone CZ220BK is a 5,000 watt fan-forced heater intended for ceiling mount and hard-wired installation. It emphasizes space-saving ceiling placement and steel construction for durability in garages and workshops.
Listed features include adjustable louvers and an adjustable mounting angle for targeted heat distribution. Built-in overheat protection and thermal cut-out switches are noted for safety.
As a hard-wired 240V heater, this unit commonly operates on a 30A circuit. Ensure correct wiring, circuit protection, and secure mounting to meet local code and safety practices.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right 30 Amp Garage Heater
Selecting a garage heater that pairs with a 30 amp 240V circuit involves matching electrical load, mounting preference, and space coverage. Below are key considerations and comparison perspectives to guide a practical purchase.
Electrical Compatibility
- Confirm Circuit Rating: A true 30A garage setup typically supports up to 30 amps continuous, but many 5,000–5,600W heaters expect a dedicated 30A 240V branch circuit. Verify breaker size and wire gauge (usually 10 AWG for 30A).
- Plug vs Hard-Wired: Some units like the Dr Infrared DR-988A include a NEMA 6-30P plug; others are hard-wired and require professional installation. Choose based on available outlet type and desire for portability.
- Inrush and Continuous Loads: Heating elements draw near-rated current continuously. Ensure the circuit is dedicated and not shared with other high-draw devices.
Mounting And Space Considerations
- Ceiling Mounts: Free floor space and are great for workshops; look for adjustable louvers to aim heat where needed.
- Portable Floor Units: Offer flexibility to move heat zones but require a compatible plug or temporary wiring arrangement that adheres to safety codes.
- Wall-Mounted Options: Offer directional heat without floor obstruction; ensure clearances around combustible materials.
Heating Capacity And Coverage
- Watts To Square Feet: Expect around 10–12 watts per sq. ft. as a general starting point for moderately insulated garages. A 5,000W unit typically serves a two-car garage or similar size in mild climates.
- Insulation & Climate: Poorly insulated spaces or colder climates may need higher wattage or supplemental insulation to achieve target temperatures.
- Thermostat Control: Models with built-in thermostats or remote control let you maintain setpoints and avoid excessive energy use.
Safety And Certifications
- ETL/UL Listings: Choose units with recognized safety certification (ETL/UL) for verified electrical safety and compliance.
- Overheat Protection: Thermal cut-outs, tip switches (for portable models), and automatic shutoff features reduce fire risk.
- Clearances: Follow manufacturer clearance specifications from walls, ceilings, and storage to prevent heat damage or combustion.
Control, Convenience, And Features
- Remote And Timers: Useful for starting the heater before entry and for managing runtime to save energy.
- Multi-Stage Heat Settings: Adjustable wattage (e.g., 3k/4k/5k) helps balance output against circuit capacity and energy use.
- Air Distribution: Louvers and adjustable mounting angles improve targeted warmth; fan speed settings influence comfort and circulation.
Installation And Maintenance
- Professional Hard-Wiring: Hard-wired 240V units should be installed by a licensed electrician to meet code and ensure correct breaker sizing and wiring methods.
- Ventilation & Dust: Garages with heavy dust or chemicals may need more frequent cleaning or enclosed installations to protect elements and fan motors.
- Service Access: Place units where filters (if present) and internal components remain accessible for inspection and service.
Comparison Perspectives
- Portability vs Permanent Install: Portable plug-in units offer flexibility but require a compatible receptacle; hard-wired ceiling units free up outlets and typically look cleaner but are permanent.
- Wattage Trade-Offs: Higher wattage heats faster and covers larger spaces but increases electrical demand. Multiple staged settings can bridge this gap.
- Price vs Features: Consider whether remote controls, timers, and smart ECO modes justify added cost for your usage patterns.
Before purchasing, verify your garage’s electrical setup (outlet type, breaker size, and wire gauge), consider mounting preference, and choose a unit with safety certifications and the control features you need. For hard-wired models, arrange a licensed electrician for installation and compliance with local electrical codes.