When your heat goes out, it can cause a bit of a panic. But knowledge is power, so let's go over radiator repair costs before that happens.
How Much Does a Garage Heater Cost? [2025 Data]
Normal Range: $1,500 - $4,000
Installing a garage heater costs $2,075, but prices can go between $1,500 and $4,000. Prices depend on the type of fuel and number of BTUs, among other factors.
How we get this data
eclipse_images / E+ / Getty Images
eclipse_images / E+ / Getty Images
Cost Insights
Fuel type and heater size are the two most significant factors to consider when getting an accurate estimate.
Natural gas and propane heater installation costs two to four times as much as electric and infrared units.
Aim for 30,000 BTUs for a one-car garage, 45,000 BTUs for a two-car garage, and 60,000 BTUs for a three-car garage.
Insulate your garage for better performance if you plan to run your heater continuously.
Garage heater installation costs around $2,075. Small heaters you can install yourself start at $150, while natural gas or propane heaters can cost $6,000 for professional installation. No matter what you use your garage for, keeping it heated can make the space more comfortable while also offering the benefit of preventing pipes from freezing. Let’s review the cost factors of installing a garage heater.
Garage Heater Cost Factors
The average cost of a garage heater is around $2,075, but the costs can range widely from around $150 for a small electric heater that you install yourself to $4,000 for larger units installed by HVAC professionals.
Fuel
Electric and infrared heaters tend to cost less, around $150 to $1,000. Natural gas and propane garage heaters range from around $400 to $2,000.
Installation
Garage heater installation costs about $100 per hour. For propane or natural gas heaters, the pros may add another $500 to $800 due to the dangers of working with gas lines. It should take about two hours to install the garage heater.
BTUs
A 30,000 BTU heater costs about $0.28 to $0.80 per hour to run. BTUs, or British Thermal Units, measure energy. Most two-car garages need a 45,000 BTU heater for efficient heating, while three-car garages need 60,000 BTUs.
Run Time
A garage heater costs about $0.08 to $0.80 per hour or $2 to $19 per day to run. You may only run your heater while you are in the garage, or you might install a heater that runs continuously. The longer your heater is running, the higher the bill will be.
| Garage Heater Run Time | Cost |
|---|---|
| Per Hour | $0.08–$0.80 |
| Per Day | $2–$19 |
| Per Week | $14–$133 |
| Per Month | $60–$570 |
| Per Year | $730–$6,935 |
Garage Heater Costs by Type of Fuel
The energy source your heater requires can also impact the cost of garage heaters, with costs starting around $150 for simple electric heaters to $2,000 for propane or gas heater units.
Electric Heater
Electric heaters range from $150 for small heaters that you can set up on your own with little trouble to over $1,000 for larger options that may require a professional to install.
Propane Heater
A propane garage heater will cost around $400 to $2,000, not including cost of installation. While this is a good option if you want a gas heater but don’t have a natural gas line to your home, be aware of the risks of using propane heaters.
Natural Gas Heater
Natural gas heaters, which range from $400 to $2,000 are usually the most efficient options for a garage. Installation costs for this type of heater can be more expensive compared to electric or infrared, because working with gas lines can be dangerous.
Infrared Heater
An infrared heater, which costs $400 to $800, converts electricity into radiant heat. This is a good option if you want a balance of a lower cost and higher efficiency. Infrared heaters can save 30% to 40% more energy than other electric heaters.
| Type of Garage Heater by Fuel | Cost |
|---|---|
| Electric Heater | $150–$1,000 |
| Propane Heater | $400–$2,000 |
| Natural Gas Heater | $400–$2,000 |
| Infrared Heater | $400–$800 |
What Garage Heater Can I Get on My Budget?
Photo: Kirill Gorlov / Adobe Stock
Here are four price ranges to consider when shopping for a new garage heater.
$100–$200
Basic electric garage heaters for one or even two-car garages can be found for under $200. These easily fit on a shelf or bench and keep your small garage warm.
If your budget is under $100, you might consider just using an electrical space heater if your garage is small and at least somewhat insulated. Just be sure to keep it clear of walls and other obstructions for efficient airflow and safety reasons.
$200–$300
Two and three-car electric garage heaters are available for under $300. You may be able to save $50 or $100 by shopping at the end of cold-weather seasons for the newest models, or looking online for deals.
$300–$400
Between $300 and $400, you’ll be able to find an electric garage heater for nearly any size garage. Some propane-powered models are also available starting around $350.
$400+
Propane, infrared, and gas-powered garage heaters are available in this price range. Because they’re more difficult to install, you may have to factor in several hundred (or even a thousand) extra dollars for installation.
Natural gas garage heaters start around $450. For large garages or high-powered units (60,000+ BTUs), you may pay $1,000+ for the unit alone.
Garage Heater Cost Breakdown
The cost to install a garage heater can be separated into two main factors: the cost of the heater unit itself and the cost for labor. Most professionally installed heaters will cost around $2,075.
Materials
A garage heater costs around $150 to $2,000 depending on the fuel type and BTUs. Other materials needed to install a heater can vary. For example, an electric space heater can just plug into the wall, or you may need a drill to mount a wall or ceiling heater.
Labor
You’ll spend about $100 per hour, a total of around $200, for garage heater installation. Propane and natural gas garage heater installation may cost an additional $500 or more.
| Garage Heater Cost Breakdown | Cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | $150–$2,000 |
| Labor (Electric or Infrared Heater) | $100 per hour |
| Labor (Gas or Propane Heater) | $600 per hour |
Why You Should Hire a Garage Heater Installation Pro
Unless you are skilled and comfortable with utility work, you should not attempt to install garage heaters yourself. Even then, it’s best to work with an experienced partner. On the other hand, hiring a garage heater installation pro is a worthy investment to ensure proper and safe installations, especially with gas and propane heaters. On average, expect to pay approximately $2,075 to install a new garage heater.
Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a garage heater pro
Hiring a garage heater installation company in your area is the best choice when it comes to getting your new heater up and running. That is because:
Appliance installation can be dangerous: Working with utility lines and electrical wiring requires advanced knowledge and skills most don’t have, especially with natural gas and propane heaters.
Labor intensity: Garage heater installation is also labor-intensive. It’s best for a seasoned pro to handle the job.
A pro is licensed and insured: If anything goes wrong, you are always protected when working with a pro.
Maintenance and repair: When working with a pro, you might get a long-term deal for scheduled maintenance and future repairs.
If you want to DIY a garage heater installation project
When there is a will, there is a means. DIY garage heater installation is not completely out of the picture with the following options:
Electric space heaters: Don’t need constant heating? Electric space heaters may be sufficient, especially if you have a small garage. No installation. You just need a plugin.
Replacing existing, old heaters: This will allow you to keep the existing utility hookups for the heater and significantly reduce the labor and risks associated with installing the new garage heater.
Opt for smaller heaters: They tend to be easier to install by yourself.
Next Steps: Finalize Your Project With a Pro
Check the pro’s insurance and licenses.
Get multiple quotes from different companies for the best price.
Look at their past projects and reviews to ensure they know how to work on the type of garage heater you want.
Ask about warranties, follow-up services, and maintenance service bundle options.
Ask if you need to clean anything out of the garage before the installation.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
Frequently Asked Questions
The homeowners guide to heating and air conditioning services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
If you’re having problems with your air conditioner’s condenser, it may be time for an upgrade. Learn about the cost to replace an AC condenser in this guide.
•Find out the average humidifier repair cost, what impacts pricing, and how to save. Get expert tips to budget for your humidifier repair.
An HVAC zoning system makes your home more comfortable. Learn about installing a zone system, including HVAC zoning system costs and considerations.
When you notice hot and cold zones in your home, it pays to learn how to balance airflow in your ducts to even out the temperature.
You’ll need to get creative if you want to run your portable AC in a windowless room. Here’s how to vent a portable air conditioner without a window.