Choosing a heater rated around 50 kW requires understanding output, fuel type and ventilation needs. Below is a quick comparison of five models that range from true 30–50 kW industrial units to high‑output commercial heaters commonly used for workshops, garages and temporary heating.
| Product | Type / Fuel | Reported Output | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sealey Space Warmer LP170 | Propane / LP | 102,000–170,000 BTU/hr (30–50 kW) | Large workshops, rapid area heating |
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU50NG | Natural Gas Unit Heater | 50,000 BTU/hr | Garages, small commercial bays |
| Dura Heat DFA50 | Kerosene / Multi‑fuel | 50,000 BTU (approx.) | Portable site heating, fuel flexibility |
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG | Natural Gas Unit Heater | 80,000 BTU/hr | Larger commercial spaces |
| CTSC 10000W Electric Garage Heater | Electric Hardwired | 10,000 W (10 kW) | Workshops needing electric option |
Sealey Space Warmer LP170
This Sealey unit lists an output range of 102,000–170,000 BTU/hr (30–50 kW), placing it in the 50 kW class at maximum settings. It’s designed to heat large volumes quickly, with stated coverage in cubic feet and variable fuel consumption rates.
Key features include a safety solenoid valve, supplied approved regulator and hose, and a piezo push‑button ignition. The unit is positioned for large workshops and industrial bays where portable high BTU output from propane is required.
Use cases: temporary jobsite heating, large garage bays, or spaces lacking natural gas. Consider ventilation and combustion air requirements before operation to meet safety and local codes.
Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU50NG
The Mr. Heater F260550 is rated at 50,000 BTU/hr and is intended for natural gas installations. The manufacturer notes heating capability to roughly 1,250 sq. ft., depending on insulation and ceiling height.
Notable features include a powered exhaust that allows vertical or horizontal venting and outside access to the thermostat, A/C terminals and gas connection for easier installation and maintenance. This unit is a category 1/3 venting compatible design for flexibility.
Ideal for attached garages or small commercial spaces with available natural gas. Confirm clearances and venting pathways and coordinate with local codes for unit placement and gas connections.
Dura Heat DFA50 50K BTU
The Dura Heat DFA50 is a 50,000 BTU forced‑air heater with multi‑fuel capability. It’s typically used as a portable heat source on worksites and in locations without fixed gas or electric service.
Features include multi‑fuel testing with K‑1 kerosene, #1/#2 fuel oil, diesel, and certain jet fuels. It also includes a one‑touch electronic start and runtime fuel gauges for monitoring operation.
This model suits temporary heating, jobsite tents, or locations requiring fuel flexibility. Consider fuel storage, combustion exhaust routing, and indoor air quality when deploying in enclosed spaces.
Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG
The Mr. Heater F260560 provides 80,000 BTU output and includes a liquid propane conversion kit with the natural gas unit. The vendor lists coverage around 2,000 sq. ft. and offers category 1 vertical or category 3 horizontal venting.
Included accessories and specs note mounting brackets, recommended clearances, 120 V electrical for blower and venting flexibility. The higher BTU output positions this unit for larger bays than the 50K model.
Consider this if you need a step above 50,000 BTU while retaining natural gas compatibility and conversion options. Verify electrical supply for the blower and proper venting layout per local regulations.
CTSC 10000W Electric Garage Heater
While not 50 kW, the CTSC electric heater is a hardwired 10,000 W (10 kW) option for workshops preferring electric systems. It includes a digital thermostat, remote, timer, ECO mode and an on‑unit voltage display.
Safety features include ETL listing and overheating protection with a heavy gauge steel body suitable for garage or shop mounting. The voltage display aims to aid troubleshooting and ensure correct supply during installation.
Electric heaters scale differently than fuel units; to match 50 kW electrically would require multiple large units or industrial three‑phase installations. This model is presented as a reliable electric workshop heater option for smaller or supplemental loads.
Buying Guide
When selecting a heater in the 50 kW neighborhood, weigh fuel type, venting and combustion air, installation complexity, and space requirements. These factors determine safety, running costs and applicability.
Fuel Type And Operating Cost
- Propane/LP (Sealey): Portable, high output, requires fuel storage and refill logistics.
- Natural Gas (Mr. Heater): Lower fuel handling, continuous supply where a gas line exists, requires gas hookups and venting compliance.
- Liquid Fuels/Kerosene (Dura Heat): Flexible fuel options ideal for remote or temporary sites; plan for safe storage and exhaust management.
- Electric (CTSC): Cleaner indoor operation where adequate electrical service exists; scaling to 50 kW electrically often needs commercial three‑phase service and higher installation cost.
Venting, Safety And Installation
- Combustion Exhaust: Any fuel‑burning 50 kW class unit needs approved venting and clearances; check local codes and manufacturer vent categories.
- Makeup Air: High BTU units consume significant combustion air; enclosed spaces may need dedicated makeup air to prevent depressurization and maintain air quality.
- Safety Controls: Solenoid shutoffs, flame sensors and overheat protection reduce risk. Look for units with certified safety components.
- Qualified Installation: Gas and high‑BTU installations often require licensed HVAC or gas technicians for safe, code‑compliant setup.
Capacity, Coverage And Sizing
- BTU vs kW: 1 kW ≈ 3,412 BTU/hr. A 50 kW target equates to about 170,600 BTU/hr. Verify the manufacturer’s BTU rating and whether it meets your cubic‑foot heating requirement.
- Space Factors: Insulation, ceiling height, openings and desired temperature rise directly affect required BTU. Use conservative margins for poorly insulated or drafty buildings.
- Multiple Units: For even heat distribution, multiple smaller units can outperform a single large unit in some layouts and provide redundancy.
Portability, Mounting And Controls
- Portable Units: Propane and multi‑fuel heaters are often portable for temporary needs.
- Ceiling/Wall Mounted: Unit heaters are common for permanent installations where floor space is limited; verify mounting hardware and clearances.
- Controls: Built‑in thermostats, remote controls, and external thermostat terminals improve operational flexibility and energy savings.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance vs Portability: Sealey offers near‑true 50 kW peak in a portable form, but requires propane logistics. Fixed natural gas unit heaters like Mr. Heater provide continuous supply with lower handling burden.
- Installation Cost vs Fuel Cost: Electric units are simpler to place but can be expensive to operate at high kW levels. Fuel units have installation and venting costs but can be more economical for high‑output long‑run use.
- Safety and Code Compliance: Fuel‑burning heaters require more rigorous venting and safety measures. Electric units minimize combustion risk but demand proper electrical infrastructure.
Final selection should match the heater’s rated output to your real space heating needs, factor in fuel availability, and follow local codes for installation and ventilation. When in doubt, consult a licensed contractor to size and install a 50 kW class heater safely.