Garage Tank Top Heaters: Picking The Right One

If you're looking to heat your garage, there are a few things to consider when choosing a heater. First, you'll need to determine the size of your garage and the level of insulation. This will help you calculate the amount of wattage or BTUs (British Thermal Units) needed to effectively heat the space. You should also think about the type of heater that would work best for you, such as electric or gas. Electric heaters are typically more energy efficient, while gas heaters are usually more powerful and better suited for larger spaces. Additionally, you may want to look into safety features like automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors to prevent accidents. Finally, consider whether you prefer a permanent installation or a portable heater that can be easily moved around. By taking these factors into account, you'll be able to choose the right heater for your garage and keep your space warm and comfortable.

Gas vs. Electric Heaters

When it comes to heating your garage, there are two main options to choose from: gas heaters or electric heaters. Both have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Gas Heaters

Gas heaters, such as propane heaters, are a popular choice for garages due to their powerful heating capabilities. They convert most of their energy into heat, making them ideal for larger spaces or frigid weather conditions. Gas heaters also tend to be more cost-effective to operate, depending on your area's local gas prices. Additionally, they can quickly produce heat and are generally more efficient than electric heaters. However, one of the main drawbacks of gas heaters is the requirement for proper ventilation to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. They also have a shorter service lifespan of about 15 to 20 years and require the installation of a natural gas line or the setup of a propane tank.

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters, on the other hand, are known for their ease of use and installation. They can simply be plugged into an electrical outlet, making them highly portable and convenient. Electric heaters are generally safer as they don't involve burning fuel or producing harmful fumes. They are also more affordable to purchase, install, and maintain. However, one of their limitations is their inefficiency in warming larger spaces when compared to gas heaters. Electric heaters may also lead to higher energy bills if used extensively, especially if electricity costs are high in your area. Additionally, they take longer to heat up and cool down, resulting in slower immediate temperature changes.

Making the Right Choice

The decision between a gas or electric heater for your garage depends on various factors. If you value quick and powerful heat and have access to a gas supply, a gas heater might be the best option. However, if simplicity, portability, and ease of setup are your priorities, an electric heater could be more suitable. It's important to consider your space, budget, and heating priorities when making your choice. Additionally, gas heaters tend to have higher installation costs, while electric heaters might lead to higher energy bills, depending on your usage and local energy costs.

Garage Insulation

Insulating your garage can have a multitude of benefits, from lowering your utility bills to creating a more comfortable living space. However, if you don't plan to add heating or cooling to your garage, insulation may not be necessary.

Benefits of Garage Insulation:

• Lowers utility bills: Attached garage insulation can reduce the cost to heat or cool your home.
• Creates more comfortable living spaces: Insulation makes it easier to control the temperature in adjacent spaces.
• Creates a more flexible space: Insulating a garage can transform it into a space with more uses, such as a workshop or exercise room.
• Prolongs HVAC life: Garage insulation can lower the necessary output of your home's HVAC system, prolonging its life.
• Offers better control of your home's environment: Fully insulating your garage allows greater climate control over your entire space.
• Decreases noise levels inside your home: Garage insulation can drastically reduce indoor noise levels.

Types of Garage Insulation:

There are several types of insulation for a garage, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Fiberglass Garage Insulation: This is the most common type of insulation used for garages. It is widely available in pre-cut wall-length batts or rolls and is DIY-friendly. However, if your garage already has drywall or plywood, you'll need to remove it before installing fiberglass insulation.
• Cellulose Garage Insulation: Cellulose insulation is a loose-fill material made from recycled newspapers and other materials coated with fire retardant and insecticide. It must be blown into place using a blower and requires additional materials like drywall to hold it in place. It is ideal for filling holes and tight spots within your garage's framing.
• Rigid Foam Garage Insulation: Rigid foam insulation is flexible and can be fit into thin spaces, making it a versatile option. It has a high R-Value, making it one of the best options for garage insulation. It can also be used to supplement other types of insulation. Rigid foam can be mounted directly onto solid wall surfaces such as cinder block and concrete walls.
• Spray Foam Garage Insulation: Spray foam insulation is typically used in attics but can be applied to garages as well. It is an expensive option, and installation is usually left to professionals. Spray foam insulation is available in open-cell and closed-cell varieties, with the latter having a higher R-Value.
• Garage Door Insulation: Don't forget to insulate your garage door! Garage door insulation kits consist of fiberglass insulation sheets with vinyl covers, while rigid foam can also be cut to fit inside each panel.

Tips for Garage Insulation:

• Don't cover soffit vents when insulating a garage ceiling.
• Ensure your garage is airtight by sealing every gap, crack, or hole in your exterior walls.
• Make sure your garage door is properly sealed around the sides, top, and bottom when closed.
• Consider upgrading garage door springs when adding insulation to a garage door, as the added weight may be too much for older springs.
• Opt for a vapor barrier when necessary. Place it on the interior side of the insulation in colder climates or the exterior side in hotter climates.

Calculating Garage Insulation Needs:

To determine the amount of insulation needed, you can calculate the total cubic feet of your garage by multiplying its length, width, and height. This value can then be used to find the required BTUs (British Thermal Units) for heating your garage. The calculation takes into account factors such as the insulation's R-Value, temperature rise, and climate zone.

BTUs and Watts

When it comes to garage heaters, both BTUs and watts can be used to determine the size and power of the heater you need. Watts are calculated by multiplying the amperage (the amount of electricity inside the machine) by the voltage (the amount of pressure needed to move the electricity). For example, a heater for a 20-foot by 24-foot garage would require 4,800 watts of power (the square footage of 480 multiplied by 10).

BTUs, on the other hand, are calculated by taking the wattage required and multiplying it by 3.41 (as one watt is equal to approximately three BTUs). So, for the same 20-foot by 24-foot garage, you would need 16,368 BTUs to warm the space.

It's important to get the right size heater for your garage, as a heater that's too big or too small can end up costing you more in the long run. By taking into account factors such as the square footage of your garage, the height of your ceilings, the level of insulation, and your desired temperature, you can calculate the appropriate number of BTUs or watts needed to heat your space effectively.

Garage Size

When determining the right heater for your garage, it's important to consider the size of the space, the type of heater, and the number of British Thermal Units (BTUs).

The first step is to measure the length and width of your garage to determine the square footage. For example, a 30-foot by 25-foot garage has a square footage of 750 feet. This measurement will be crucial in selecting the appropriate heater size.

The next step is to calculate the total cubic feet of your garage by multiplying the square footage with the height from floor to ceiling. Using the previous example, if the garage is 10 feet tall, the cubic feet would be 7,500.

To make a more precise calculation, you should also determine the required temperature rise by subtracting the lowest seasonal temperature from your desired garage temperature. For instance, if the lowest temperature is 15˚F and you want to maintain 65˚F, the temperature rise would be 50.

The insulation of your garage is another important factor. Garages with minimal or no insulation will require more BTUs to heat up compared to those with average or good insulation. You can use the following numbers as a guide: no insulation (5), minimal insulation (1.5), average insulation (1), and very good insulation (0.5).

By multiplying the cubic feet, temperature rise, and insulation value, then dividing that by 1.6, you can estimate the required BTUs for your garage. In the example case, with minimal insulation, the calculation would be (7500 x 50 x 1) / 1.6, resulting in 234,375 BTUs needed.

Alternatively, you can calculate the required BTUs by dividing the square footage by 200 and then multiplying by 6000 for insulated garages or 9000 for non-insulated garages. Using the same example, an insulated 750-square-foot garage would require approximately 22,300 BTUs.

In conclusion, selecting the right heater size for your garage involves measuring the square footage and cubic feet, considering the temperature rise, and assessing the insulation to determine the necessary BTUs. This information will guide you in choosing a heater that efficiently warms your garage without incurring excessive costs.

Heater Safety

When using a tank top heater to heat your garage, there are several safety precautions you should take to ensure safe operation. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

• Ventilation: It is crucial to ensure proper ventilation when using a tank top heater, especially in an enclosed space like a garage. Remember that propane heaters consume oxygen and emit combustion byproducts, including carbon monoxide, which can be hazardous in confined areas.
• Open Flame: Always be mindful of the open flame. Keep flammable materials away from the heater and never leave it unattended.
• Exhaust Fumes: Be cautious of exhaust fumes in the area, especially if the garage is attached to your home. Ensure there is adequate ventilation to prevent fumes from entering your living space.
• Moisture: Propane heaters can produce a significant amount of moisture, leading to condensation and dripping. Consider the climate and ventilation in your garage to avoid potential issues.
• Safety Features: Look for heaters with safety features such as a tip-over safety switch, which turns off the heater if it is accidentally knocked over, reducing the risk of fire or gas leakage.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install carbon monoxide detectors in your garage and nearby areas to alert you to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
• Regular Maintenance: Proper maintenance of your heater is essential. Regularly inspect and clean the heater according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• User Manual: Read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer in the user manual. Each heater may have specific safety guidelines and operating procedures that you should be aware of.
• Safe Fuel Handling: Always handle propane fuel with care. Store propane tanks in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or open flames. Ensure that all connections are secure and never overfill the tank.
• Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies. Ensure that it is easily accessible and that you know how to use it properly.

By following these safety guidelines, you can confidently use a tank top heater to warm your garage while minimising potential risks. Remember always to prioritise safety and never leave a heater unattended or ignore warning signs, such as strange smells or discolouration on the unit.

Frequently asked questions