Chilly Garage? Here’s the Best Way to Heat It Like an HVAC Pro (No Frostbite Allowed!)

Knowing how to safely and effectively heat a garage during the winter could be an energy-efficient hack for your home, according to our HVAC experts. The garage may not be a high-traffic area in the home, but it's still one that is quite useful.

From storing away seasonal decor to storing your beloved transportation — for many, the garage is used for multiple purposes. But did you know that temperature matters when it comes to winterizing a home? In order to avoid mold, burst pipes, and condensation, it's key that your garage doesn't get too cold during these months, and there are a few simple and smart ways to keep your garage warm.

Here are a few highly effective ways you can heat a garage, according to HVAC experts.

Best Way to Heat a Garage

After speaking to HVAC experts, it's clear that there are different types of heating systems you can install to properly heat a garage.

HVAC expert Ryan Camp from Harrington Air Conditioning says mini-split systems are highly efficient and effective. "Heating a garage will really depend on its size, insulation, and intended use, but my top choice is a ductless mini-split system. Mini-splits are highly efficient, easy to install, and provide both heating and cooling," explains Ryan. "They allow you to control the temperature precisely and operate quietly — ideal if you use your garage as a workshop or living space. Mini-splits are energy-efficient because they use heat pump technology to transfer heat rather than generate it, saving on energy costs over time."

Mini split systems such as this Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner with Heat Pump from Home Depot should do the job, as well, and this MRCOOL Advantage Single Zone 12000-BTU 21.4 SEER Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump from Lowe's.This Senville LETO Series Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump is Amazon's best seller with over 6,000 reviews.

John Jordan, HVAC expert and the President of Integrity Heating & Cooling, tells us that the ultimate choice is a hydronic radiant floor heating system. "It heats the garage evenly from the ground up, providing consistent warmth that's perfect for anyone working in the garage or using it frequently. Plus, it eliminates cold spots and is energy-efficient in the long run," says John. "If that’s too ambitious, consider ceiling-mounted electric radiant heaters. Firstly, they save floor space. Secondly, they deliver consistent warmth. Thirdly, since they heat objects and people directly, not the air, they're efficient in uninsulated garages."

What Temperature Should a Garage Be During Winter?

Now, what is the best winter setting for a thermostat in a garage? Ryan recommends keeping your garage between 40°F and 60°F in winter.

"This will prevent your pipes from freezing and keeps the garage comfortable for use without wasting energy. If the garage is used as a workshop or contains sensitive equipment, maintaining a temperature closer to 55°F to 65°F is best," he explains. "You can use a programmable thermostat to maintain efficiency as well."

Here are some chic programmable thermostats you can upgrade to.

Where Do Garages Lose the Most Heat?

Even if you use a smart heating system, there may be a few areas in your garage where heat can easily escape from. Ryan says the main spots to keep an eye out for include:

Garage Doors: "Thin, uninsulated doors let cold air seep in," says Ryan. "Consider upgrading to an insulated door or adding an insulation kit to the existing one."

Windows: Another issue is that "Single-pane windows or improperly sealed frames allow significant heat loss." To prevent this, the HVAC expert says you should "use weather stripping caulk or energy-efficient window coverings." Like this Advanced Silicone 2 Caulk 10.1 oz Window and Door Sealant from Home Depot or this Persilux Cordless Blackout Honeycomb Window Shades from Amazon.

Walls and Ceilings: "If the garage walls are uninsulated or the ceiling lacks proper insulation, heat escapes quickly, especially if the garage shares walls with the outdoors," says Ryan.

Floor: Lastly, the expert says, "Heat can also be lost through an uninsulated concrete floor, which absorbs cold temperatures."

FAQs

How to Prevent Heat Loss in a Garage?

According to Ryan, a simple way to prevent heat loss would be to "Insulate the garage door and walls and seal any gaps around windows and doors using weather stripping or caulking."

He continues: "You can also install a threshold seal at the bottom of the garage door to prevent drafts and add insulation to the ceiling or attic above the garage. To reduce heat loss through the concrete, consider laying down rubber mats or carpeting on the floor."

This M-D 36-in x 3.75-in Aluminum Door Threshold is priced at just $21.98 from Lowe's. As for reducing heat loss through concrete, you can use this Rubber-Cal Diamond-Plate Rubber Flooring Rolls from Amazon — currently priced at $14.47.