I am looking to buy a forced air salemander type propane heater to heat my two car garage. It is fairly well insulated, but winters can get cold in Ohio. I am looking for a heater that can keep the garage at 60 to 70 degrees during the winter since I am looking on painting the frame and underbody of the car. The two sizes I am looking at are:

A Master heater 30-55K heat output or;

A Master heater 50-85k heat output.

They both have variable heat adjustment.

Does anyone have experience in selection of these type heaters. I do not want to buy to small or to large. Your input is appreciated.

Thanks,

Bart

I bought a 170,000 BTU at self serve lumber of all places last year. I was looking for around 100,000 but couldn't pass it up for $199.99 - I told my buddy & he bought one as well. Works great, Really kicks out some heat. Has a thermostat as well. Go bigger than you think, Easier to turn it down than not big enough.

LK

I had one of the propane heaters and got rid of it. The air in the garage became horrible to breathe, even when we left the door partially open for fresh air to enter.

I think it would be better to get a natural gas ceiling unit that you can vent to the outside.

I also have a Blue Flame Propane unit that I will be taking down. It did a great job of heating, but the downside is the garage does not get enough air exchange. I wouldn't notice it until you left for awhile. My experience with it all come down to either electric or vented unless the garage is well ventilated to allow fresh air in.

I have a 2 car garage, non-insulated, and I bought a 220v space heater. It will bring the temp up as far as I want, even with the garage door being slighlty drafty. I actually have to turn it off after a while. I like it - quiet, and no fuels to have to go and get, no stink. I have a propane heater also, and got tired of buying 20.00 tanks after 2-3 days of moderate usage.

I think it would be better to get a natural gas ceiling unit that you can vent to the outside.

I have a ceiling mounted gas unit but mine is ventless. Same type you see in warehouses,shops,etc. Never noticed any problem with fumes and there is a carbon monoxide detector in the basement which is attached to the garage.

I also have a Blue Flame natural gas ventless unit. It's ok for short (1-3) hour periods but longer than that you can smell it. It had a ox sensor that's supposed to shut it down if levels become too low. Additionally, if it has been running for several hours it pumps a lot of moisture into the garage. The unit was less then 150.00 though.

If I were to do it again I'd definately go with either radiant electric (preferred) or vented NG/PP.

Dan

i have a propane heater its called hot dawg. i have a 100 gallon tank. my garage is 24x24 im on my second year with it and still using the same tank of propane.i use it alot here in new jersey. try hot dawg heaters on internet