how to heat

[1930artdeco]

Hello,

I am going to try like $%$% to build a new garage this summer. I live in Oakland Ca. and would like to heat it in the winter. The measurements are approx. 14X30 and it will be insulated top and sides. So here is the question: how do I heat it and with what? There are propane type heaters, electric heaters, and radiant floor heat. What is the most efficient and cost effective way as I won't need it all the time as it does not get that cold here.

Thanks,

Mike

 

[Steevo]

How much heat does a garage need in Oakland, ca? Maybe a 15 degree rise on the coldest day?
Annual temp range is from about 45F degrees low to 75F degrees high.
Most of us would consider 50 degrees a good working temperature for a garage, and anything warmer to be t-shirt conditions. Unless, of course, you are just sitting there watching a ball game on TV.

 

[BillK]

Mike,

I have one of these http://www.heater-home.com/product/PH-5HW.aspx mounted on the wall in my attached 22x22 garage here in the Washington DC area. It will get the temp up from about 35 to a toasty 65 in less than 30 minutes on the coldest winter day. Garage has insulation in the walls, but none in the ceiling, just drywall.

I dont run it all that often, but cant say I have ever really noticed a difference in the electric bill because of it.

I will make one suggestion, if you have to cut corners anywhere on your build, the one place NOT to is the door. Get the best insulated door you can afford with the best weather strip around it. I bet that 80 % of the heat loss in most garages is the door. Mine had an old wooden door for years and there is no way the heater could keep up with it. I replaced it a few years back with an insulated steel dorr and it made all the difference in the world !!