
Most New Jersey homeowners find their garages uncomfortably cold during the winter months. After all, garages just aren’t built to stay warm inside when outdoor temperatures dip. So if you utilize your garage as a workshop, home gym, or craft room, your repairs, workouts, and other tasks can be difficult to complete.
Luckily, there are several options to keep your garage warm through the winter months.
Insulation and Sealing
Before deciding on a heating solution, it’s important to make sure your garage is well-insulated and sealed. Adding insulation to your garage walls, ceiling, and even the garage door can help retain heat and keep your energy bills down. Weather-stripping around windows and doors also helps seal in warmth. Insulation doesn’t just keep heat inside during the winter—it also helps to keep the garage cooler during summer months.
Portable Space Heaters
One of the quickest and most affordable ways to heat a garage is by using a portable space heater. There are various types of space heaters available, including electric, propane, and kerosene models. Be sure you have proper ventilation in place if choosing propane or kerosene heaters and always follow all manufacturer instructions and safety precautions.
Gas-Fired Garage Heaters
Gas-fired heaters are another effective option. These systems are typically more powerful than portable electric heaters and are ideal for larger garages. There are two main types of gas heaters: vented and unvented. Vented Heaters expel combustion gases outside, making them safer for long-term use. They do require professional installation and a venting system, but they’re highly efficient and can heat a large garage quickly. Unvented Heaters don’t require a vent but should be used with caution due to the risk of carbon monoxide buildup. Always ensure proper ventilation when using these heaters.
Radiant Floor Heating
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, installing electric radiant floor heating is a great way to warm up your garage. This system involves running heated cables or mats under your garage’s floor to create an even, comfortable warmth that radiates upward. Radiant floor heating is energy-efficient and provides consistent warmth, but you will need to retrofit your existing garage floor.
Ductless Mini-Split System
For homeowners who want a year-round option, a ductless mini-split system is a great solution that offers both heating and cooling. If you already have a mini-split system in your home, it should be fairly easy to add an indoor air-handling unit. If you don’t already have a mini-split system, investing in one for your garage is still a terrific option that can provide year-round comfort.
Heating your garage during the winter doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Contact Anthony’s today to learn how we can help make your garage a more comfortable, usable space all year round.