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10 Best Propane Shop Heaters 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mr. Heater Propane Unit Heater 80,000 BTU/Hr. MHU80LP

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,270
Heating Area
Safety Features

Most important from
19 reviews

Heating Area
Heats my shop well.
Safety Features
Before installation, inspect thoroughly; mine had several loose parts and potential safety hazards right out of the box.

The Mr. Heater Propane Unit Heater MHU80LP delivers a powerful 80,000 BTU per hour, making it well-suited for heating spaces up to 1000 square feet. With forced air as its heating method, it ensures a consistent and effective distribution of warmth, which is ideal for larger shop areas. The heater's spark ignition with a self-diagnostic control module adds reliability and ease of use, reducing troubleshooting time in case of issues.

Furthermore, the included angle brackets simplify the ceiling mount installation, allowing for flexible placement within the shop environment. However, the unit's 90.1-pound weight may pose challenges for portability, making it less convenient to move once installed. While the 4-inch flue size and 1/2-inch gas connection are standard, they need proper setup, which might require professional installation.

On a positive note, the product comes with a generous warranty—three years on parts and burners, and ten years on the heat exchanger—indicating the manufacturer's confidence in its durability. This heater is a strong candidate for those needing a robust and efficient heating solution for larger spaces, provided they can manage the installation.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,270
Heating Area
Safety Features

Most important from
19 reviews

Heating Area
Heats my shop well.
Safety Features
Before installation, inspect thoroughly; mine had several loose parts and potential safety hazards right out of the box.
#2

Heatstar 30000 Btu Vent Free Radiant Propane Heater With Thermostat And Blower

Rating
9.1
Heating Area

Most important from
35 reviews

Heating Area
Easy hookup and great value make this heater a fantastic choice. It can run off BBQ tanks and heats up to 850 sq ft with ease.

The Heatstar 30000 Btu Vent Free Radiant Propane Heater is a robust choice for heating larger areas, thanks to its high BTU rating of 30,000, making it suitable for shops and garages. It is designed to efficiently heat without requiring ventilation, which can be a significant advantage in enclosed spaces. The adjustable thermostat enhances user convenience by allowing precise control over the temperature, while the battery-operated electronic ignition ensures easy start-up, adding to its user-friendliness.

A considerable benefit is its ability to operate during power outages, although the blower requires electricity to function, which might limit its effectiveness in such scenarios. Safety is well-addressed with a built-in low oxygen sensor, which is crucial for indoor usage, ensuring safe operation. The heater's portability is moderately good, with options for both wall mount and free-standing installation.

At 1 pound, it might not offer the sturdiness some users expect from shop heaters. The black color is neutral, fitting into various shop aesthetics. This heater is a solid option for anyone looking for an efficient, safe, and easy-to-control heating solution, especially valuable in areas prone to power outages, though its reliance on electricity for blower operation could be a drawback for some.

Rating
9.1
Heating Area

Most important from
35 reviews

Heating Area
Easy hookup and great value make this heater a fantastic choice. It can run off BBQ tanks and heats up to 850 sq ft with ease.
#3

Dyna-Glo IRSS18LPT-2P 18,000 BTU Liquid Propane Infrared Vent Free Thermostatic Wall Heater

Rating
8.5
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
376 reviews

Fuel Consumption
Constant burn feature with three different settings is highly appreciated, offering flexibility without excessive propane consumption.

The Dyna-Glo IRSS18LPT-2P is a liquid propane infrared wall heater with a BTU rating of 18,000, making it capable of heating spaces up to 700 sq. ft. This is suitable for small to medium-sized areas such as garages, bedrooms, or home offices. One of its main strengths is its use of infrared technology, which efficiently warms objects directly, providing immediate and comfortable heat. The built-in thermostat control is a convenient feature, maintaining your desired temperature automatically and potentially reducing heating costs.

Additionally, it doesn't require electricity, making it a reliable option during power outages. For enhanced performance, an optional fan can be purchased to extend the heat reach quietly and effectively. The heater is also fairly lightweight at 18.4 pounds, which along with optional base legs, adds to its portability and flexibility in mounting options. The heater's ignition type is not specified, and this could be crucial for user convenience and safety.

In essence, this heater excels in efficient heating and user-friendly temperature control but could improve with more detailed safety features and ignition information.

Rating
8.5
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
376 reviews

Fuel Consumption
Constant burn feature with three different settings is highly appreciated, offering flexibility without excessive propane consumption.

Buying Guide for the Best Propane Shop Heaters

When choosing a propane shop heater, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best model for your needs. Propane heaters are a great option for providing warmth in a shop or garage, especially in colder climates. They are portable, efficient, and can quickly heat up a space. To make an informed decision, you should understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements.
BTU RatingBTU (British Thermal Unit) rating measures the heating capacity of the heater. This spec is crucial because it determines how much heat the heater can produce. Higher BTU ratings mean more heat output. For small shops or garages, a heater with a lower BTU rating (10,000-30,000 BTUs) may be sufficient. For larger spaces, you might need a heater with a higher BTU rating (50,000-100,000 BTUs or more). Consider the size of your space and the level of insulation when choosing the right BTU rating.
Heating AreaThe heating area specification indicates the maximum square footage the heater can effectively warm. This is important to ensure the heater can cover the entire area you need to heat. For example, a heater with a heating area of 500 square feet is suitable for small to medium-sized shops, while a heater with a heating area of 1,500 square feet or more is better for larger spaces. Match the heating area spec to the size of your shop to ensure adequate warmth.
Fuel ConsumptionFuel consumption measures how much propane the heater uses, typically in pounds per hour. This spec is important for understanding the operating cost and how often you'll need to refill the propane tank. Lower fuel consumption (0.5-1.5 pounds per hour) is more efficient and cost-effective for smaller spaces, while higher fuel consumption (2-4 pounds per hour) may be necessary for larger areas. Consider your budget for fuel and the frequency of use when evaluating this spec.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the heater around. This is important if you need to frequently reposition the heater or store it when not in use. Portable heaters often come with handles, wheels, or a compact design. If you need a heater that can be easily moved, look for these features. For stationary use, portability may be less of a concern.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are critical for ensuring safe operation of the heater. Common safety features include tip-over protection, overheat protection, and oxygen depletion sensors. These features help prevent accidents and ensure the heater operates safely. If you plan to use the heater in a busy or enclosed space, prioritize models with comprehensive safety features to protect yourself and others.
Ignition TypeIgnition type refers to how the heater is started. Common types include manual ignition, piezo ignition, and electronic ignition. Manual ignition requires a match or lighter, while piezo and electronic ignitions are more convenient and safer, as they do not require an open flame. If ease of use and safety are important to you, consider a heater with piezo or electronic ignition.
Thermostat ControlThermostat control allows you to set and maintain a desired temperature. This is important for comfort and energy efficiency, as it prevents overheating and reduces fuel consumption. Heaters with adjustable thermostats provide better control over the heating environment. If you want precise temperature management, look for a model with a built-in thermostat.

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