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10 Best Space Heater For Garage 500 Square Feet 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU Indoor-Safe Propane Radiant Heater For Campers, Workshops, Job Sites, Patios & More - Red, Black

The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX offers a heating capacity ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 BTUs, which is ideal for smaller spaces up to 225 square feet, though it falls short for a 500-square-foot garage. This propane radiant heater provides direct warmth, making it effective for targeted heating of people and objects rather than larger open spaces.

Its safety features are commendable, including a tip-over switch and a low-oxygen safety shut-off system, ensuring reliable operation in various conditions. The heater is easy to ignite with its Piezo igniter and simple to operate with an adjustable knob, making it user-friendly even for non-tech-savvy individuals. Portability is another plus, thanks to its compact size, lightweight design, and fold-down handle.

However, you may need an optional hose and filter to connect to a larger 20 lb. propane tank for extended use. This heater is fuel-efficient, providing warmth for up to 6 hours on the low setting, which is economical for its size. While its coverage is limited, this product excels in smaller areas that require quick and efficient heating. The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater is a solid choice for smaller spaces and temporary heating needs, but it may not suffice for a larger 500-square-foot garage.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Heating Capacity (BTUs
Its direct warmth is comparable to a toasty fire, offering instant comfort.
Type of Heater
The new Buddy portable heater gives great heat and is easy to ignite.
Safety Features
Safety features like the tip-over switch and oxygen-depletion sensor are reliable.
Energy Efficiency
Using a 20 lb. propane tank with a fuel filter is more economical than smaller tanks.
Portability
The heater's lightweight design and fold-down handle make it highly portable.
#2

Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater, 80,000 BTU, Black

The Mr. Heater F260560 Big Maxx MHU80NG is a powerful unit heater designed to efficiently heat spaces up to 2,667 square feet, making it a strong choice for garages and large outdoor areas. With a heating capacity of 80,000 BTUs, this natural gas heater can quickly warm up your workspace, which is particularly beneficial during colder months. One of its significant strengths is its flexibility in venting options; it can be vented both vertically and horizontally, which offers versatility in installation based on your garage setup.

In terms of safety, the heater features a high-temperature safety shut-off, which is essential for preventing overheating. The unit is designed for permanent installation, and while it’s relatively heavy at 88 pounds, it is ceiling mountable, which can save floor space. However, because of its weight and design, portability is limited compared to more compact or portable space heaters. Noise levels can vary, and while many users find it relatively quiet, some may notice the operational sounds depending on their sensitivity to noise.

On the downside, it does rely on natural gas, which may limit its use if gas lines are not available. Additionally, installation may necessitate professional help, especially for venting, which could further increase your expenses. If you are looking for a robust heating solution for larger garages or workspaces, the Mr. Heater Big Maxx offers impressive heating performance and safety features, but consider the installation requirements and additional components you'll need before making your purchase.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Heats a four-car garage effectively with easier-than-expected installation.
Noise Level
Remarkably quiet and heats up quickly.
#3

Mr. Heater F260550 Big Maxx MHU50NG Natural Gas Unit Heater,Black

The Mr. Heater F260550 Big Maxx MHU50NG is a powerful space heater designed to efficiently heat spaces like a garage, with a capacity of 50,000 BTUs, covering areas up to 1,250 square feet. This means it can easily handle the heating needs of your garage even on the coldest days. One of its notable strengths is the powered exhaust system, which allows for flexible venting options, either vertically or horizontally, providing versatility in its installation. Additionally, it comes with a conversion kit for switching from natural gas to liquid propane, enhancing its usability based on your gas supply preferences.

Safety features include a high-temperature shut-off switch, which is essential when operating in enclosed spaces, ensuring you can use it with peace of mind. Its design also allows for a ceiling mount, which is a practical option for garages where floor space might be limited.

This heater is best suited for those looking for a reliable and powerful heating solution for larger garage spaces, especially if you already have natural gas or are comfortable with installation requirements.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Heating a 21'x33' garage with an 11' ceiling from 40F to 70F in 2.5 hours during 20F outside temperatures showcases its powerful performance.
Noise Level
Quiet operation and effective heating even with minimal blower noise.

Buying Guide for the Best Space Heater For Garage 500 Square Feet

When choosing a space heater for your garage, especially one that is around 500 square feet, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. A good space heater will keep your garage warm and comfortable, while also being safe and energy-efficient. Here are the key specs you should look at and how to navigate them.
Heating Capacity (BTUs)Heating capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and indicates how much heat the heater can produce. For a 500 square feet garage, you typically need a heater with a capacity of around 10,000 to 15,000 BTUs. If you live in a colder climate, you might need a higher BTU rating. To pick the right one, consider the insulation of your garage and the average outside temperature. A well-insulated garage in a mild climate might need less BTUs, while a poorly insulated one in a cold climate will need more.
Type of HeaterThere are several types of space heaters, including electric, propane, natural gas, and kerosene. Electric heaters are easy to use and safe for indoor use, but they can be more expensive to run. Propane and natural gas heaters are more cost-effective for larger spaces but require proper ventilation. Kerosene heaters are powerful but can emit fumes and require ventilation. Choose the type based on your garage's ventilation, your comfort with handling fuels, and your preference for convenience versus operating cost.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are crucial when using a space heater in a garage. Look for heaters with automatic shut-off features that activate if the heater tips over or overheats. Overheat protection ensures the heater turns off if it gets too hot, preventing fires. Tip-over protection is especially important in a garage where the heater might be accidentally knocked over. Choose a heater with these safety features to ensure safe operation.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how well the heater converts energy into heat. An energy-efficient heater will save you money on your energy bills. Look for heaters with an Energy Star rating or those that have adjustable thermostats and energy-saving modes. These features help maintain a consistent temperature without using excessive energy. If you plan to use the heater frequently, investing in an energy-efficient model will be beneficial in the long run.
PortabilityPortability is important if you need to move the heater around the garage or to different locations. Portable heaters are typically lighter and may have wheels or handles for easy movement. If you need a heater that can be easily relocated, look for one that is compact and has built-in carrying features. However, if you plan to keep the heater in one spot, portability might be less of a concern.
Noise LevelNoise level can be a consideration if you plan to spend a lot of time in the garage while the heater is running. Some heaters can be quite noisy, which can be distracting or annoying. Look for heaters that are specifically designed to operate quietly if noise is a concern for you. Checking user reviews can also give you an idea of how loud a heater might be during operation.

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