Finding the right heater for a shop or garage means balancing heat output, safety, portability, and fuel type. Below is a quick comparison table of the five selected portable shop heaters covered in this guide, followed by detailed product summaries and a practical buying guide.
| Product | Type | Primary Strength |
|---|---|---|
| NewAir NGH160GA00 | Electric Ceramic | Cool-Touch Safety & Portability |
| Remington REM-222A-120 | Electric | Fast Heat For Small Shops |
| Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy | Propane Radiant | Infrared Radiant Heat For Up To 225 Sq Ft |
| Mr. Heater MH60QFAV | Propane Forced-Air | High BTU Output For Large Spaces |
| LF Bros 5KW Diesel Heater | Diesel Air Heater | All-in-One 12/24/110V Diesel Solution |
NewAir NGH160GA00 120V Electric Portable Garage Heater
The NewAir NGH160GA00 is an electric ceramic heater designed for small to medium shop spaces. It features a cool-to-the-touch exterior, an internal thermostat, and an automatic shut-off to reduce overheating risks. Mobility is supported by a carry handle and a tilting head that adjusts the heat direction.
Heat delivery relies on a ceramic heating plate and a 200 CFM fan for fast warm-air circulation. Two heat modes allow basic temperature control, and the unit is rated for coverage around 160 square feet. The safety-first design makes it suitable for enclosed workspaces where contact risk or accidental tipping is a concern.
Remington 1500W Heavy-Duty Electric Heater
The Remington REM-222A-120 is a straightforward, portable electric heater built for jobsite and garage use. It offers two heat settings and an adjustable thermostat to control warmth for spaces up to about 165 square feet. The unit emphasizes rapid warm-up with a design that produces heat within seconds.
Its compact form factor and simple controls make it useful for intermittent shop tasks, short-duration projects, or workbenches. Because it is electric, it requires a reliable 120V supply and carries safety benefits of no open flame or fuel storage, useful in shared or indoor shop environments.
Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy Heater
The Mr. Heater MH9BX is a propane radiant heater using infrared technology to warm objects and people directly rather than only heating the air. It offers a range of 4,000 to 9,000 BTUs and is rated to cover up to 225 square feet, making it effective for small shops, garages, and temporary workspace heating.
Safety features include an improved tip-over safety switch that audibly engages if the unit is jostled, and a reliable Piezo igniter for match-free starts. As a radiant heater, it is efficient where direct line-of-sight heat is needed, but ventilation and fuel storage considerations apply for indoor use with propane.
Mr. Heater MH60QFAV 60,000 BTU Propane Forced Air Heater
The MH60QFAV is a propane forced-air heater offering between 30,000 and 60,000 BTUs, aimed at larger garages, workshops, and jobsite tents. It uses variable output to match heating requirements and is rated for extended run times when paired with a standard propane tank.
This model incorporates QBT Technology to reduce operating noise by about 50% compared to standard forced-air units. Forced-air heaters deliver high-volume conditioned air quickly across open spaces, making them suitable when rapid ambient temperature rise is a priority. Considerations include fuel storage and adequate ventilation when operating in enclosed areas.
LF Bros 5KW Diesel All-In-One Air Heater
The LF Bros 5KW diesel heater is an all-in-one diesel air heater that supports 12V, 24V, and 110V connections, intended for more permanent or semi-permanent shop installations where diesel fuel is available. It produces approximately 4,700–17,000 BTU and includes a 5L fuel tank, remote control, and LCD display.
This unit is described as easy to install with included hardware and has a wide operating temperature range. Because it is fuel-based, it’s suited for spaces without reliable electric capacity or where extended runtime is required without frequent refills. Venting and exhaust routing should be planned per local codes and safety guidance.
Buying Guide: Choosing A Portable Shop Heater
Selecting the best portable heater for your shop involves evaluating space size, fuel type, safety features, portability, and installation needs. The following factors and comparison angles will help you match a heater to your workspace.
1. Heat Output And Coverage
- BTU vs. Watts: Propane and diesel heaters list BTUs; electric heaters list watts. Convert when comparing: 1,000 watts ≈ 3,412 BTU.
- Room Size: Estimate cubic feet (length × width × height). Higher ceiling shops lose heat faster; choose a heater with surplus capacity for drafts or open doors.
2. Fuel Type Advantages And Constraints
- Electric Heaters: Simple to use, no combustion byproducts, good for enclosed shops without fuel storage. Limited by supply circuit capacity.
- Propane Heaters: Portable high heat output; some models are designed for indoor-safe radiant heating but require ventilation consideration and propane storage.
- Diesel Heaters: Useful for long runtimes and off-grid scenarios; require installation, exhaust routing, and fuel handling.
3. Safety Features
- Tip-Over Protection: Essential for shop environments where units can be bumped.
- Overheat Shutoff: Prevents component damage and fire risk.
- Cool-to-Touch Housing: Important when working in tight spaces or around flammable materials.
4. Portability And Installation
- Frequent Relocation: Choose lightweight electric or small propane units with handles.
- Semi-Permanent Heating: Diesel or larger forced-air propane heaters are more efficient but may need mounting or venting.
5. Noise And Air Movement
- Radiant Heaters: Generally quieter and warm objects directly, useful for seating or stationary work areas.
- Forced-Air Heaters: Move more air and heat large volumes quickly but can be noisy.
6. Efficiency And Operating Cost
- Electric: High conversion efficiency at the element, but utility rates determine cost-effectiveness.
- Propane/Diesel: Often lower fuel cost per heat delivered in high-output use, but account for fuel handling and ventilation.
7. Ventilation And Indoor Safety
- Combustion Heaters: Ensure proper air exchange and follow manufacturer guidance for indoor use. Carbon monoxide detectors are recommended when using fuel-based heaters.
- Non-Combustion Electric Heaters: Safer for enclosed spaces but still require clearance from combustibles.
8. Controls And Thermostat Accuracy
- Adjustable Thermostats: Improve comfort and energy use by preventing overrun.
- Remote/Timers: Useful for preheating or scheduling in larger shops to reduce runtime.
9. Maintenance And Durability
- Replaceable Parts: Fans, igniters, and filters should be serviceable to extend unit life.
- Build Quality: Metal housings and robust controls hold up better in dusty shop environments.
Comparison Perspectives
- Small, Intermittent Use: Electric ceramic units (NewAir, Remington) offer plug-and-play convenience and lower safety risk indoors.
- Located Near Workbench Or People: Radiant propane (Mr. Heater Buddy) is efficient for targeted warmth without heating the entire volume.
- Large Or Poorly Insulated Shops: High-BTU forced-air propane or diesel (Mr. Heater MH60QFAV, LF Bros) provide the volume output needed to maintain temperatures.
- Off-Grid Or Long Runtime: Diesel all-in-one systems can run for extended periods where electricity is limited.
Practical Checklist Before Purchase
- Measure the shop volume and insulation level.
- Decide between portable spot-heat and whole-space heating needs.
- Confirm power availability or fuel access.
- Verify safety certifications and required detectors for combustion units.
- Plan mounting, ventilation, and clearance per instructions and local codes.