A mini-split allows for zoned cooling, helpful for cooling spaces like garages. Learn the cost to install a mini-split unit in a garage with this guide.
How Much Does a Garage Heater Cost? [2026 Data]
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Cost Insights:
Garage heater installation costs between $1,500 and $4,000, with the fuel type and heater size determining your final project total.
Electric and infrared heaters keep your upfront costs lower, while gas or propane installs need added line work.
You should budget for mounting hardware or electrical upgrades for a dedicated circuit or wall bracket.
Hiring a local furnace repair professional ensures safe gas line connections and protects your household from carbon monoxide.
In 2026, the national average cost for garage heater installation is $2,075. Most homeowners spend between $1,500 and $4,000, with fuel type, heater size, and installation complexity driving the cost. Small heaters you can install yourself start at $150, while natural gas or propane heaters can reach $6,000 for professional installation.
Garage Heater Cost Factors: What Determines the Price?
Garage heater installation typically costs around $2,075, but the full range runs from $150 for a small electric heater you install yourself to $4,000 for larger units installed by HVAC professionals. The fuel type, heater size, and whether gas line work is required are the primary drivers of where your project lands within that range.
Fuel
The fuel type your garage heater uses is one of the biggest cost drivers, with electric and infrared units ranging from $150 to $1,000 and natural gas or propane heaters ranging from $400 to $2,000. Gas and propane models cost more upfront and require professional gas line work, but they tend to deliver greater heating efficiency for larger spaces.
Installation
Garage heater installation runs about $100 per hour, and most electric or infrared installs take roughly two hours to complete. Propane and natural gas heaters add $500 to $800 to the labor total because working with gas lines requires specialized expertise and carries a greater safety risk.
BTUs
BTUs, or British Thermal Units, measure a heater's energy output, and the size you need directly affects both the unit cost and operating costs, with a 30,000 BTU heater running about $0.28 to $0.80 per hour. Most two-car garages require a 45,000 BTU heater for efficient heating, while three-car garages typically need 60,000 BTUs.
Run Time
Running a garage heater costs about $0.08 to $0.80 per hour or $2 to $19 per day, depending on the heater type and how often it operates.
Whether you run it only while you're in the garage or keep it on continuously will have the greatest impact on your monthly energy bill, as shown in the breakdown of costs by run time below:
| Garage Heater Run Time | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|
| 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 Fuel Type: What Are the Differences?
The fuel type your garage heater uses significantly shapes the unit cost, ranging from $150 for a basic electric heater to $2,000 for propane or natural gas models. Costs vary by fuel type and heating capacity, as shown in the breakdown below.
Electric Heater
Electric garage heaters range from $150 for small units you can set up yourself to over $1,000 for larger models that may require professional installation. They are the most straightforward option to install and work well for smaller garages or occasional use.
Propane Heater
A propane garage heater costs $400 to $2,000 for the unit alone, not including installation. This is a practical choice if you want gas-level heating output but don't have a natural gas line, though you should review the risks of using propane heaters before committing to this fuel type.
Natural Gas Heater
Natural gas heaters range from $400 to $2,000 and are generally the most efficient option for heating a garage. Installation runs higher than electric or infrared because gas line work requires licensed professionals and carries inherent safety risks.
Infrared Heater
An infrared heater costs $400 to $800 and converts electricity into radiant heat, making it a strong choice for homeowners who want a balance of affordability and efficiency. Infrared models can use 30% to 40% less energy than standard electric heaters, which lowers long-term operating costs.
The following table outlines the average costs by the type of garage heater fuel:
| Type of Garage Heater by Fuel | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Electric Heater | $150–$1,000 |
| Propane Heater | $400–$2,000 |
| Natural Gas Heater | $400–$2,000 |
| Infrared Heater | $400–$800 |
Garage Heater Costs: What Fits Your Budget?
Kirill Gorlov / Adobe Stock Photography
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
Garage heater units cost $150 to $2,000 depending on fuel type and BTU output. Additional materials vary widely by installation type, from a simple wall outlet for a plug-in electric heater to mounting hardware and brackets for wall or ceiling-mounted models.
Labor
Labor for garage heater installation runs about $100 per hour, with a typical electric or infrared install totaling around $200. Propane and natural gas installations add $500 or more to that total due to the complexity and safety requirements of gas line work.
Here are the average costs for materials and labor:
| Garage Heater Cost Breakdown | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|
| 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
Heating and air conditioning services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.5★ avg. • 115 total reviews
- Carol M.
I have used Columbus Worthington Air for years and recommend them whenever I have a chance. The staff is quick, courteous, and well-trained.
ARS Columbus Worthington Air - Marwan T.
If you’re good people wanting to do business with good people, hire Matt. He is a consummate professional and utterly competent. He installed a water heater in my home at a price that beat competitors by hundreds of dollars with a promise to support the unit for its life (even after its 6 yr...
Greene's Plumbing Services - Eric T.
Corey Carr was great. I had damage from a recent storm and needed to have my mast and other components replaced. The project entailed coordinating with AEP, and Corey helped make a stressful situation a lot less stressful. I really appreciated his dedication to service and the job very well done.
Mr. Electric of Columbus - Dawn G.
This service was great. My air conditioner went out during the heat spell that we had. My husband has health issues and they came out that night and at 9:30pm the air conditioner was fixed and running. We are sooo very thankful, this is the company I will be using from now on and would...
Mr. Mechanical Ohio - Jeff B.
Great company! Price was competitive, technician showed up on time and completed the job (exterior electric Radon fan replacement) quickly. Would hire them again.
MaGen Property Inspections and Radon Mitigation - John A.
Raven and crew does absolutely fantastic job. They are very professional if any concerns were to occur with any of her work she always took responsibility and finished out with a great job. I have worked with her business for a year and have always been satisfied. Very trusted business and...
Creations of Transformation LLC - Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Justin W.
Ace Fireplace Services' chimney sweep service is truly exceptional. They used advanced technology to ensure a thorough cleaning process, and my chimney has never looked better. I highly recommend their services.
Ace Fireplace Services - David B.
The technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Heather M.
On time, clean and finished fast. Windows seem sturdy and the finish is good. Caulking was done with no smudges. Would recommend.
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio
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