A garage heater allows you to improve the comfort of your stay in the cold season. Often the space in utility rooms is equipped not only for storage of the vehicle, but also for recreation or as a workshop. It is important to consider the most optimal heating system so that it is efficient, safe and economical. Consider the types of heaters, the rating of the most popular models and reviews of the owners.
Electric garage heater
A similar heating method relates to simple and economical options. However, certain nuances should also be considered here. The advantages of electric heating:
- Easy installation and availability of electricity.
- A wide selection of devices of various types.
- The ability to select the unit in terms of power.
- Good heat dissipation.
Among the shortcomings, users note the high cost of equipment, as well as the need for uninterrupted operation of the supply network.
Among the varieties of electric heaters, the following modifications are distinguished:
- Heat gun. A simple and inexpensive device that works on the principle of heating the air masses with a spiral and their subsequent distribution through a fan.
- The infrared heater in the garage does not affect the paint of the car. Radiation warms up surfaces and objects that give off heat.
- Convection type devices. Similar models warm themselves and warm the surrounding space. They are not as effective as a gun, but they are more economical and hold heat longer.
- Invertor split systems are the most efficient and economical option, however, they have a high cost.
Gas versions
A gas heater for a garage is considered one of the most economical modifications, however, it requires connection to the central highway, the preparation of relevant documentation, and compliance with certain safety standards. Installation of such systems should be carried out by specialists. Such equipment may only be installed in rooms where there is ventilation and a shelf height of at least two meters. As an option - the use of bottled gas.
The main advantages of a gas heater for a garage:
- High efficiency.
- Profitability.
- Possibility of maximum system automation.
- Uninterrupted supply of heat around the clock.
Any gas equipment refers to high-risk devices. Safety rules must be strictly followed, as ignoring them can lead to tragedy and serious damage.
Water counterpart
A heater for a garage on a water coolant is appropriate if the building is close to the water supply system. The most economical option is to bind the heater to the main heating system of the house. In this case, an additional boiler is not required, however, it will be necessary to extend the pipeline. Keep in mind that the power of the main system will decrease. If such a scheme does not fit, you will have to mount a second boiler.
Solid fuel heating system
Another budget option would be a solid fuel garage heater. Coal or firewood is superior in economy to other analogues, especially if they are freely available. Such a modification does not depend on energy lines and common highways.
A heater of this type can well be built independently. This will require sheet metal, reinforcement or a thick-walled barrel. Cons include a high level of fire hazard, the need to constantly maintain combustion and low environmental friendliness.
The factory stove can be made like a potbelly stove, made of brick or made according to the pyrolysis version. Considered heaters are well suited for small rooms. Compared to boilers, they dry the air more.
Model on diesel fuel
The diesel heater for the garage in the form of a gun is also quite economical. In the process, the exhaust gases are transported to the heat exchanger. This design makes it possible to maximally secure the operation of the installation due to indirect heating. After entering the purifier, a cleaned air mixture is supplied to the outside, which heats the room. The use of such guns requires a sufficient influx of fresh air, as they burn out oxygen.
The features of the diesel heater for the garage include the following:
- Built-in flame control system.
- The presence of automation to shut down equipment at critical temperatures.
- Built-in thermostat.
- High mobility, which is important for a small building.
Options are working out
Almost every driver disposes of used oil. However, it can serve as fuel for the heater. You can make a stove with your own hands, on the principle of a solid fuel option, or order from specialists.
The advantage of this equipment is the operation without waste. Depending on the intensity of combustion and the characteristics of the unit, it consumes about an liter of mining per hour. For self-assembly, metal sheets and pipes, as well as a welding machine, will be required. It is worth remembering that all modifications must comply with safety regulations.
More on IR Modifications
Recently, an infrared heater in the garage has become popular. This is due to performance. Typically, these models are mounted in limbo at a certain height. When turned on, the floor is heated, which gives off heat throughout the room.
There are three ways to place infrared heaters, depending on the purpose of their use:
- If the garage is intended for a repair shop, the unit is installed directly above the working area, including it as necessary.
- To maintain positive temperature during storage of the vehicle, calculations are carried out based on the calculation of 50 W per square meter.
- If the temperature is required up to +20 degrees, 100 watts per 1 sq. m, therefore, the number of heat sources increases.
Among the main advantages of the equipment in question, users note a high level of reliability, safety, efficiency and durability.
Rating of the best models
Below is the rating of the best garage heaters, taking into account the opinions of consumers:
- Comfort Zone CZQTV5M. The quartz infrared model is focused on spot heating, great for small rooms. The heater is mounted on a wall or ceiling. To connect, you will need a socket with a supply voltage of 220 V. The device has a power and heating temperature controller. The cultivated area from one unit to 15 "squares". The cost of the unit starts at $ 50.
- Dr. Infrared heater DR-988 Garage Shop 208 / 240V, 4800 / 5600W. This garage heater is an electric fan heater, capable of heating up to 55 square meters of area. The design includes a thermostat, auto power off, a temperature range indicator. The power limits are 4.8-5.6 kW, the average cost is 110 dollars.
- Fahrenheat FUH54 240-volt Garage heater. The electric model has adjustable power (2.5-5.0 kW). The heater is ideal for a garage, basement or workshop. The heating area is up to 45 square meters. m. The device is made of industrial materials, is able to warm the air up to 50 degrees. The equipment is mounted on a ceiling or wall. The cost starts from 250 dollars.
- Dyna-Glo RMC-FA60DGD. The portable gas-fired heater for the garage is equipped with a powerful fan, a special hose for connecting to a gas source. It has the option of automatic shutdown, the heating area is up to 1250 "squares". Price - from $ 80.
- Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy. The infrared model has a capacity of 4-9 thousand BTU, which is enough to heat 20 square meters. It can be operated both for the street and utility rooms. The unit uses a type of radiant heating, which is very convenient and economical, equipped with an auto shut off function. Price - from 80 dollars.
A quick tour of popular solid fuel stoves
Judging by the feedback of consumers, the following models of solid fuel heaters are optimally suitable for the garage:
- "Buleryan." The design of the furnace is made according to the principle of convection (heating of air masses is carried out in special pipes).
- "Stavr". The model is made of cast iron, able to withstand maximum temperatures.
- "Themaphore." The version is designed for standard and pyrolysis combustion, equipped with convection pipes.
- "Alaska". The modification has a beautiful design and hob.
- Breneran. The stove is able to function on wood and mining.
The price of heaters for a garage of this type varies from 6 to 11 thousand rubles.
What do users say?
Customer reviews do not have a clear answer, which garage heater is better. Some argue that electrical options are more profitable environmental friendliness, ease of use and mobility. Other owners give their votes to gas models, due to their economy. Many fans of solid fuel furnaces and boilers. Preference, in many respects depends on which method is more affordable and effective in each case.
Recommendations
When using open fires, the blower should not be closed until the fuel has completely burned out. All heating appliances for the garage must be turned off at night.
To install the furnace you need a chimney mounted at a certain angle. Its height should be at least four meters.
When using gas burners or guns do not forget to regularly ventilate the room.
To avoid defrosting water boilers, it is better to use antifreeze instead of water.
Fan heaters contribute not only to warming up the room, but also allow drying of the wheels and bottom of the vehicle.