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Can I Add A Heater In My Garage Or Outdoor Living Space?

Can I Add a Heater in My Garage or Patio? Here’s What You Need to KnowCan I Add A Heater In My Garage Or Outdoor Living Space?

Hey there! I’ve been getting this question a lot lately, especially from friends looking to make better use of their garage or outdoor spaces. I recently went through the whole process myself, so I thought I’d share everything I learned about adding heat to these spaces. Trust me, it’s totally doable and it can really transform how you use these areas all year round.

Why Would You Want To Add a Heater To These Spaces Anyway?

Let me tell you, when iI decided to add a heater to my garage was a game-changer. I used to avoid my workshop like the plague during winter, but now? I’m out there tinkering with projects even when it’s freezing outside. And don’t even get me started on how amazing it is to have a warm patio for entertaining. Last weekend, we had friends over for dinner outside in November – something that would’ve been impossible before.

What Kind of Heating Unit Should You Get?

So here’s the deal with heaters,  you’ve basically got three main options to choose from:

  • Electric heaters are probably the easiest way to go. They’re pretty affordable upfront and super simple to install. I’ve got a buddy who just plugs his in and calls it a day.
  • Gas heaters are more of a powerhouse option. If you’ve got a bigger space to heat (like my two-car garage), these might be your best bet. They pump out serious heat, though they need proper ventilation.
  • Infrared heaters are kind of like having your own personal sun. They heat objects and people directly rather than the air, which makes them super efficient for specific areas. These are great if you want to heat just your workbench area or create a cozy spot on the patio.

Let’s Talk Safety (Because Nobody Wants Their Garage to Go Up in Flames)

Look, I can’t stress this enough safety isn’t just some boring requirement we have to mention.

When I started the process to add a heater, I learned there’s a lot to consider:

  • Electric heaters need the right wiring and circuit capacity
  • Gas heaters absolutely must have proper ventilation (carbon monoxide is no joke)
  • Infrared heaters need some clearance from anything that could catch fire

If you’re not 100% confident about installation, please get a pro to help. It’s worth the extra cost for peace of mind.

How to Pick the Right Heater for Your Space

Here’s what I wish someone had told me before I started, think about how you’ll actually use the space. Are you planning to work on cars in your garage? You’ll need something pretty powerful. Just want a cozy reading nook on your patio? A smaller infrared heater might do the trick.

Consider your space size, local climate, and how often you’ll use it. I originally bought a heater that was too small for my garage, and let me tell you  that was a waste of money.

Installation: What You’re Getting Into

If you’re handy, installing an electric heater isn’t too bad. But for gas heaters, you’ll probably want to call in a pro. They need to deal with gas lines and proper ventilation, which isn’t DIY territory unless you’ve got specific experience.

Keeping Your Heater Happy

Once you’ve got your heater installed, don’t just forget about it. I learned this the hard way  a little maintenance goes a long way. Clean or replace filters regularly, check connections and give it a good once-over before winter hits. Trust me, you don’t want it dying on you during the coldest day of the year.

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Here’s a pro tip, before you even install your heater, check your insulation situation. I added some basic insulation to my garage door and weather stripping around windows, and it made a huge difference in how hard my heater had to work.

Don’t Forget the Legal Stuff

Before you get too excited, check your local building codes. Some areas have specific requirements about what kind of heaters you can install. My neighbor had to switch from a gas to an electric heater because of local regulations. Better to know this stuff upfront!

Making It Cozy

Once you’ve got the heat sorted, why not make the space super inviting? I added some LED strips for ambiance, threw down a couple of rugs, and even brought in an old armchair. Now my garage isn’t just warm, it’s somewhere I actually want to hang out.

When Things Go Wrong

Every heater can have its moments. If something’s not working right, start with the basics, check your power supply, clear any blockages, and make sure nothing’s broken. But if you’re dealing with a gas heater or anything that seems potentially dangerous, call in a professional.

Ready to Get Started?

To add a heater to your garage or outdoor space is worth it if you ask me. Just take your time planning it out, prioritize safety, and think about how you’ll use the space. And hey, if you need more specific advice, most home improvement stores have experts who can help you figure out exactly what you need.

Remember, the goal here isn’t just to add a heater, it’s to create a space you’ll use and enjoy year-round. Trust me, once you’ve got it set up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!