Choosing the right garage heater means balancing BTU output, mounting type, fuel source, efficiency, and safety features. The table below summarizes five ceiling- or shop-mounted heaters and close propane alternatives to help narrow options quickly.
| Product | Type | Fuel | Max BTU / Output | Mounting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Propane Unit Heater MHU80LP | Unit Heater | Propane | 80,000 BTU | Ceiling / Angle Brackets |
| Reznor UDXC-60 | Gas Unit Heater (UDXC Series) | Propane (LP) | 60,000 BTU (two output levels) | Ceiling Mount (suspension points) |
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG (LP Conversion Kit Included) | Unit Heater (Natural Gas With LP Kit) | Natural Gas (Includes LP Conversion Kit) | 80,000 BTU | Ceiling / Horizontal or Vertical Venting |
| Mr. Heater MHVFBF20LPT Blue Flame Vent Free | Wall/Room Heater (Vent Free) | Propane | 20,000 BTU | Wall Mount |
| Dr Infrared DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater | Electric Infrared | Electric (Plug-In) | Up To 1500W (~5,000 BTU equivalent) | Ceiling/Hanging Option |
Mr. Heater Propane Unit Heater 80,000 BTU/Hr. MHU80LP
This Mr. Heater MHU80LP is a propane-fired ceiling unit heater designed for garage and workshop spaces. It lists 80,000 BTU capacity and is intended for mounting with included angle brackets. The unit features a spark ignition with a self-diagnostic control module to support reliable starts and operation. Manufacturer claims heating coverage for up to approximately 1,000 square feet depending on insulation and ceiling height. The included mounting brackets simplify ceiling installation, but thermostat, hose, and regulator are not included and must be selected separately. For propane ceiling installs, confirm local code, proper clearance, and fuel hookup requirements prior to purchase.
Reznor 60,000 BTU Gas Unit Propane Garage Heater UDXC-60
The Reznor UDXC-60 is sold as a gas unit heater compatible with propane. It offers two staged outputs—listed low and high outputs—to match milder or colder conditions, and a rated efficiency around 83%. The unit is designed for indoor use in garages, shops, and warehouses and includes four threaded-nut retainers for suspension mounting from the ceiling (mounting hardware sold separately in some cases). The dual heating levels let installers size the heater to both peak winter load and shoulder-season needs. For propane installations, ensure correct regulators, piping, and venting where applicable; check whether local codes permit the unit’s installation location and venting method.
Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater (LP Conversion Kit Included)
This Big Maxx unit arrives configured for natural gas but includes a Liquid Propane conversion kit, allowing propane operation after proper conversion. Rated at 80,000 BTU with a coverage claim up to 2,000 square feet, the heater offers flexible venting options (category 1 vertical or category 3 horizontal). The purchase includes two angle brackets for mounting; thermostat, hose, and regulator are not included. Clearance recommendations include at least 8 feet from the floor to the base. When converting fuel type, follow manufacturer instructions and local fuel safety codes—incorrect conversion can create safety hazards.
Mr. Heater MHVFBF20LPT 20,000 BTU Blue Flame Vent Free Propane Heater
The MHVFBF20LPT is a vent-free blue flame propane heater intended for direct indoor space heating up to roughly 700 sq. ft. It mounts on a wall rather than the ceiling, but is a common choice for garages where venting is difficult. Features include an electronic thermostat for temperature control, battery-powered ignition, and an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) for automatic shutdown if oxygen levels drop below safe thresholds. Vent-free units should be used cautiously in enclosed spaces; they produce combustion byproducts in the room air and may not be permitted by local code for use in some garages or occupied spaces.
Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater (Electric)
The DR-238 is an electric carbon infrared heater designed for both indoor and outdoor use and is included here as a non-propane alternative that can be ceiling-mounted. It operates on standard 120V with multiple power settings and provides clean, instantaneous radiant heat without combustion. Electric ceiling-hung heaters avoid fuel hookups, venting, and combustion safety concerns, and can provide targeted warmth for work areas in a garage. Consider an electric option when propane supply, ventilation, or indoor combustion regulations limit the use of gas-fired heaters.
Buying Guide: Choosing A Propane Ceiling Heater For Your Garage
Selecting the right heater requires comparing performance, installation, safety, and operation details. The following considerations help determine the most suitable propane heating solution for a garage.
1. Fuel Type And Venting
- Direct-Fired Propane Unit Heaters (ceiling-mounted): Typically require approved venting or are designed for indoor use with specific vent categories. Confirm whether the model is intended for indoor propane use and follow venting instructions.
- Vent-Free Propane Heaters: Provide room combustion heat without venting but release combustion products into space. Check local code and ventilation requirements before selecting a vent-free model for a garage.
- Electric Infrared Alternatives: Avoid combustion and venting concerns; suitable where fuel hookup is impractical or restricted.
2. BTU Output And Space Size
- Estimate heat load by square footage, insulation, ceiling height, and typical winter temps. High ceilings require more capacity or directional heat delivery.
- Match heater BTU or wattage to the calculated heat loss. Units with multi-stage outputs (two levels) give more control across shoulder seasons.
3. Mounting And Clearance
- Ceiling Mounting frees floor space and distributes warm air broadly; check suspension points, bracket inclusion, and required clearances from combustibles.
- Confirm minimum height from the floor and required distances to walls, doors, and stored materials.
4. Controls And Integration
- Thermostat compatibility and remote control options improve comfort and energy use. Many unit heaters require a separate thermostat purchase and wiring.
- Self-diagnostic ignition and safety interlocks reduce downtime and aid troubleshooting.
5. Efficiency And Operating Cost
- Higher thermal efficiency reduces fuel use for comparable heat output. Check efficiency ratings and match to expected runtime.
- Compare propane consumption rates (if provided) and consider propane availability and refueling logistics.
6. Safety Features
- Look for ODS (Oxygen Depletion Sensor) on vent-free models, automatic shutoff controls, and flame failure protection.
- Ensure carbon monoxide prevention strategies: install CO detectors in garages used with combustion heaters and follow code for fuel-fired appliances.
7. Installation And Local Code
- Professional installation is recommended for propane ceiling heaters. Piping, regulators, venting, and mounting all require compliance with building codes.
- Confirm permit requirements and whether vent-free appliances are permitted in your jurisdiction and for garage locations specifically.
8. Maintenance And Serviceability
- Choose units with accessible controls and documented maintenance procedures. Regular inspection of burners, ignition components, and fuel connections increases safety and lifespan.
- Factor in availability of replacement parts and authorized service in your area.
9. Alternative Considerations
- If combustion in the garage is restricted, consider electric infrared or hardwired electric shop heaters for targeted heat without fuel hookups.
- For occasional use or partial heating, portable propane heaters are available but typically not recommended for long-term indoor garage heating without proper ventilation and safety controls.
Comparison Perspectives: When comparing models, weigh upfront installation complexity (venting, gas lines) against long-term fuel cost advantages of propane units. For attached garages or workspaces where indoor air quality is a concern, electric heaters eliminate combustion risks but may raise electrical capacity considerations. Units with staged outputs or thermostatic control generally offer better year-round comfort and energy use than fixed-output heaters.