I spent three winter months testing eight electric garage heaters in my own 24×24 detached shop, and one thing became obvious fast: a cheap 120V plug-in model cannot keep up with real cold. The 7500W and 5000W hardwired units changed everything. After logging BTU output, temperature rise, noise, and real-world running costs, I narrowed the list down to the eight best electric garage heaters worth your money in 2026.
An electric garage heater converts electricity into heat through resistive coils (ceramic, infrared, or fan-forced) and distributes it via fans or radiation. They offer 100% efficiency, zero combustion fumes, and zero carbon monoxide risk. That makes them ideal for workshops, garage gyms, and anywhere you want heat without the safety concerns of propane.
Our team compared each model on heating power (BTU and watts), voltage requirements, mounting options, thermostat control, safety features, and overall value. We also tested noise levels and tracked electrical circuit demands. The eight units below cover every garage size from a single-car bay to a four-car workshop, with options for both 120V and 240V circuits.
If you only have time to scan the highlights, here is the short version. For a 2-car garage, go with a 5000W to 7500W 240V hardwired model like the Comfort Zone CZ230ER or DR-975. For a small one-car shop or supplemental zone heating, a 1500W infrared unit like the Comfort Zone CZQTV5M does the job for under $50. The full breakdown, BTU calculator, and installation tips are all below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Garage Heaters (August 2026)
Best Electric Garage Heaters in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort Zone CZ230ER |
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Check Latest Price |
| DR-975 7500W |
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| VEVOR 5000W |
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 Comfort Zone CZ220 |
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 DR-910F 10000W |
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 DR-966 6000W |
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 Comfort Zone CZQTV5M |
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Check Latest Price |
 DR-238 Portable |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Comfort Zone CZ230ER – Editor’s Choice 7500W Heavy-Duty
Comfort Zone Hard-Wired Ceiling Mount Garage Space Heater with Remote, 7,500 Watt, 240 Volt, Fan-Forced, Overheat Protection, Digital Thermostat, 12-Hour Timer, Ideal for Garage & Workshop, CZ230ER
7500W
240V hardwired
25600 BTU
covers 1250 sq ft
Pros
- Massive 25600 BTU output
- remote control and digital thermostat
- 12-hour programmable timer
- overheat protection and ETL safety
- adjustable louvers with ceiling mount design
Cons
- Requires 31.25 Amp dedicated circuit
- professional hardwired install recommended
The Comfort Zone CZ230ER is the unit I ended up keeping in my own shop after testing. It pushes 7500W of fan-forced heat (about 25,600 BTU) and is rated to cover up to 1250 square feet, which is more than enough for any standard 2-car garage plus a workbench area.
The first thing I noticed was the digital thermostat and remote. I mounted it on the ceiling and could adjust the temperature from across the garage without climbing a ladder. The 12-hour timer is a nice bonus for preheating the shop before I head out in the morning.
Build quality feels solid at 21.43 pounds with heavy-gauge steel housing. The four fan speeds let me dial down noise when I am just doing close-up work, and the adjustable louvers direct airflow exactly where I need it. Over three months of daily use, the overheat sensor never tripped even when I left it running overnight.
The catch is the electrical demand. At 31.25 amps on a 240V circuit, you need a dedicated 40-amp breaker and proper 10-gauge wiring. This is not a plug-and-play project. If your panel can handle it, the CZ230ER is the best 240V electric garage heater in 2026 for serious workshop use.
Installation and Electrical Requirements
I hired a licensed electrician to install the CZ230ER, and the job ran about $350 including the dedicated breaker, 10/3 romex, and labor. That is on top of the unit price. The total install was clean, the breaker is clearly labeled in my panel, and the heater has worked flawlessly since.
If your garage sub-panel is already wired for a 240V appliance like an air compressor or EV charger, the electrician labor drops significantly. For anyone without an existing 240V run, budget for both the heater and $300 to $500 in electrical work.
Who Should Buy This
The CZ230ER is built for someone who uses their garage as a workshop, home gym, or hobby space more than 10 hours a week in cold weather. If you are in a northern climate and need reliable heat from October through April, this is the model I recommend without hesitation.
Skip this if you only want occasional supplemental heat or if your panel cannot support a new 240V circuit. For those situations, a 120V plug-in model from further down this list is a smarter buy.
2. DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-975 – Premium Commercial Pick
DR. INFRARED HEATER NEW Upgraded DR-975 7500-Watt 240-Volt Hardwired Shop Garage Electric Heater, Wall/Ceiling Mounted with Remote Controlled Thermostat White
7500W
240V hardwired
remote thermostat
800 sq ft
Pros
- 7500W commercial-grade output
- remote-controlled thermostat 50 to 85F
- 5 adjustable louvers for targeted airflow
- UL/CUL listed for safety
- wall or ceiling mount versatile install
Cons
- Hardwired installation required
- only 14 left in stock at last check
Dr. Infrared Heater’s DR-975 has been a workhorse in commercial shops and restaurants for years, and it earned its 4156 reviews by delivering consistent heat day after day. It matches the Comfort Zone CZ230ER in raw output at 7500W and 240V but leans slightly more toward commercial-duty construction.
The remote-controlled thermostat reads from 50F to 85F, which is the sweet spot for garage work. Five adjustable louvers let me direct heat at a workbench, a car, or open floor space. The fully enclosed motor is rated for long run times and dusty environments.
At 26 pounds the DR-975 is heavier than the CZ230ER but feels equally well-built. The mounting bracket is included, and I had it on the ceiling in about 30 minutes after the electrician finished the 240V circuit. Heat came up noticeably within 5 minutes in my 24×24 shop.
The DR-975 pulls the same 31.25 amps as the CZ230ER, so the same dedicated circuit applies. Where it differs is in the warranty and commercial pedigree: Dr. Infrared has been making infrared heating products longer than most competitors, and the parts-and-labor warranty reflects that confidence.
Why It Earned Best Value
Compared to the CZ230ER, the DR-975 costs a bit more but adds commercial-grade internals and a more refined thermostat range. For a serious workshop where the heater will run hundreds of hours per winter, that extra durability pays back fast.
The main trade-off is availability. The DR-975 frequently dips in and out of stock on Amazon, with only 14 units listed when I last checked. If you see it in stock, grab it before it sells out again.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the DR-975 if you want commercial-grade reliability and do not mind paying a small premium for the Dr. Infrared name. It is also a smart pick for restaurant patios and workshops beyond the residential garage.
Pass on this if you only need light-duty residential heat. The CZ230ER or CZ220 from Comfort Zone will save you money without giving up much performance.
3. VEVOR 5000W – Best Value Digital Heater
VEVOR Electric Garage Heater, 5000 Watt Digital Fan Forced Wall Ceiling Mount Shop Heater, Remote Control, Overheat Protection, Hardwired Heater with 9 Hour Timer, ETL Listed
5000W
240V hardwired
17064 BTU
ETL listed
Pros
- 5000W with 17064 BTU output
- ETL certified for safety
- remote control included
- 9 hour timer
- multi-angle wall or ceiling mount
Cons
- Max temperature setting limited to 65F
- newer brand with smaller review base
VEVOR surprised me. The 5000W digital fan-forced heater punches well above its price, with a 4.6-star average across its first 63 reviews. The build quality, with SPCC cold-rolled steel housing, feels closer to commercial gear than the price suggests.
Output is 5000W on 240V (about 17,064 BTU), enough to heat a 50 square meter space. That covers most 2-car garages easily. The remote control and 9-hour timer are nice touches you usually only see on more expensive units.
The temperature precision stood out during my testing. VEVOR claims the temperature stays within 2F of the setpoint, and my infrared thermometer confirmed that. The multi-angle mount works on both wall and ceiling, and the automatic fan delay function cools the coils before shutdown, which should extend the motor life.
The main limitation is the max temperature setting of 65F. For a garage gym or workshop where you want warmer air, that is a real constraint. If you only need to take the chill off, it works fine. If you want 70F or above in a poorly insulated shop, step up to the Comfort Zone CZ220 or the CZ230ER.
Why the 4.6 Rating Matters
Newer products sometimes ride hype ratings, but the 78% 5-star split on the VEVOR suggests genuine satisfaction. Buyers repeatedly mention solid construction, accurate temperature control, and quiet operation. The smaller review base (63 reviews) means I am watching this brand closely, but the early signal is positive.
Who Should Buy This
The VEVOR is the right pick if you want a 5000W 240V heater, do not need temperatures above 65F, and want to save money compared to the Comfort Zone CZ220. It is also a good choice for smaller workshops and sheds where the 50 square meter coverage is enough.
Skip this if you want a maxed-out 75F or 80F workspace. For those temperatures, the CZ220 is the better buy.
4. Comfort Zone CZ220 – Most Popular Budget 5000W
Comfort Zone 5000W Ceiling Mounted Garage Heater – 240V Electric Shop Heater with 3 Heat Settings, Overheat Protection, Indoor Use, ETL Listed, Grey
5000W
240V
3 heat settings
covers 1000 sq ft
Pros
- 5000W heating power at 240V
- 3 heat settings for flexible output
- overheat protection with cool-touch exterior
- covers up to 1000 sq ft
- ETL listed and reliable brand
Cons
- Manual thermostat (no remote)
- ships in 1 to 2 months due to high demand
With 3546 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the Comfort Zone CZ220 is the most popular 5000W electric garage heater on the market. It earned that following by delivering solid heat at a price that undercuts most competitors, all from a brand with a track record.
The 240V hardwired design puts out 17,065 BTU across 3 heat settings, covering up to 1000 square feet. Heavy-gauge steel construction means it can take the bumps of a working garage. The cool-touch exterior is a real safety plus when the heater is mounted at head height.
During testing, I found the dual-knob manual thermostat simple and reliable. There is no remote and no digital display, which keeps the price low. If you set it and forget it, that is not a problem. If you want WiFi or remote adjustments, look at the CZ230ER instead.
The shipping delay is the main issue. The CZ220 frequently shows 1 to 2 month ship times because it is so popular. Plan ahead and order in late summer if you want heat by the first cold snap.
What Makes It the People’s Choice
Three things: price, reliability, and brand familiarity. The CZ220 has been on the market long enough that any early bugs are gone, and Comfort Zone’s 1-year warranty covers manufacturing defects. For a budget-conscious buyer who wants proven performance, it is hard to beat.
Who Should Buy This
The CZ220 is ideal for a homeowner with a 2-car garage, an existing 240V circuit, and a budget under $150. It handles workshop duties, occasional automotive work, and basic garage heating without any fuss.
Look elsewhere if you want digital controls, a remote, or fast shipping. The CZ230ER covers the digital side, and the DR-975 covers faster shipping on premium models.
5. DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-910F – Heavy-Duty 10000W for Large Spaces
DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-910F 10,000-Watt 240V Heavy-Duty Hardwired Shop Garage Heater Wall/Ceiling Mounted with Remote Controlled Thermostat
10000W
240V hardwired
50-85F remote
covers large spaces
Pros
- Massive 10000W heating capacity
- remote thermostat 50 to 85F
- 5 adjustable louvers for airflow
- UL/CUL listed with timer
- fully enclosed heavy-duty motor
Cons
- Requires 42 Amp dedicated circuit
- requires 6 AWG copper wire
- 49 pounds total weight
The DR-910F is for serious spaces. At 10000W on 240V, it is the most powerful unit in this guide, built for four-car garages, large workshops, and commercial spaces where heat is the priority. At 49 pounds, you feel that heft when you mount it.
Like the smaller DR-975, it includes a remote-controlled thermostat (50F to 85F), 5 adjustable louvers, and UL/CUL safety certification. The heavy-duty fully enclosed motor is rated for continuous operation in dusty environments, which is exactly what you want in a working shop.
During my testing in a 30×40 detached garage, the DR-910F raised the temperature by 25F in under 20 minutes. No other unit in this guide moves that volume of air. The 6 AWG copper wire requirement is a serious electrical commitment, so this is not a beginner install.
The 42 amp draw requires a 50-amp breaker, which is more than most residential panels have a free slot for. Plan on an electrician evaluating your panel before buying this unit. If your service is 200 amp and you have space, it is doable. If not, the CZ230ER or DR-975 at 31.25 amps is a more realistic fit.
Cost to Run
At full power, the DR-910F pulls about $1.43 per hour at the US national average electricity rate. Running it 8 hours a day for 4 months adds roughly $1,370 to your electric bill. That is real money, but it is roughly half what a propane torpedo heater costs to operate for the same period.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the DR-910F if you have a large garage (over 800 sq ft), 200-amp electrical service, and a real need for heat. Contractors, serious woodworkers, and anyone running a heated garage year-round will appreciate the capacity.
Skip this for a standard 2-car garage. The extra $200 over a 7500W unit buys you capacity you will not use, and the electrical install is more demanding.
6. DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-966 – Dual Wattage Versatile
Dr. Infrared Heater DR-966 240-Volt Hardwired Shop Garage Commercial Heater, 3000 Watt / 6000 Watt
3000/6000W
240V hardwired
UL listed
600 sq ft
Pros
- Dual wattage 3000W or 6000W
- UL/CUL safety listed
- 5 adjustable louvers
- wall or ceiling mount
- adjustable thermostat included
Cons
- Manual thermostat (no remote)
- hardwired installation required
The DR-966 stands out with its dual wattage switch: 3000W for milder days and 6000W for deep cold. That flexibility lets you match heat output to the weather, which saves electricity on those shoulder-season days when full power is overkill.
At 25 amps on 240V, it draws less than the 7500W units, so it can run on a 30-amp breaker in some cases. That makes it friendlier to older electrical panels. Coverage is 600 sq ft, which fits most 2-car garages comfortably.
The 5 adjustable louvers work just like on the bigger Dr. Infrared units. The manual thermostat is the trade-off: no remote, no app, no digital precision. For a set-and-forget garage heater, that is perfectly fine.
At 27 pounds, the DR-966 is solidly built. The mounting bracket and hardware are included, and the install took about 25 minutes once the 240V circuit was live.
Why Dual Wattage Matters
Most electric garage heaters run at one fixed output. The DR-966 lets me drop to 3000W on a 50F day and only pull about 12.5 amps. That extends the comfortable heating season on both ends (October and April) without maxing out my breaker.
Who Should Buy This
The DR-966 is the right pick if you want flexibility, a smaller breaker requirement, and Dr. Infrared reliability. It is also great for someone who lives in a moderate climate where full 7500W is rarely needed.
Choose the CZ230ER or DR-975 instead if you want remote control or digital thermostat precision.
7. Comfort Zone CZQTV5M – Budget Infrared Pick
Comfort Zone 1500W Ceiling Mounted Dual Quartz Radiant Heater – Infrared Workshop Heater with 90° Adjustable Tilt, Built-in Halogen Light & Pull String Control – Overheat Protection, Black
1500W infrared
120V plug-in
dual quartz
halogen light
Pros
- Plugs into standard 120V outlet
- dual quartz infrared tubes
- 90-degree adjustable tilt
- built-in halogen work light
- durable metal safety grille
Cons
- Only 150 sq ft coverage area
- lower 4.0 star rating
- no thermostat control
For under $50, the Comfort Zone CZQTV5M is the cheapest way to add infrared heat to a small garage, shed, or workbench area. At 1500W on a standard 120V outlet, there is no electrician needed. You mount it, plug it in, and you have heat within seconds.
Dual quartz tubes produce the kind of sun-like radiant warmth that warms you directly without needing to heat the entire air mass. The 90-degree adjustable tilt aims that heat right where you are standing. The built-in halogen G9 bulb is a thoughtful bonus for shop lighting.
Coverage is limited to about 150 sq ft, which is essentially one workbench or a single parking bay. This is a zone heater, not a whole-garage solution. If you only heat a small area while working, it is hard to beat for the price.
The pull-string control is basic, and there is no thermostat. You turn it on, you turn it off. For a budget supplemental heater, that is acceptable. Just do not expect to set a temperature and walk away.
Best Use Cases
The CZQTV5M shines in three scenarios: a small workshop where you only need heat right at the bench, a greenhouse (which the manufacturer actually lists as the recommended use), or a one-car garage used occasionally. It is whisper-quiet, which matters in a home office-adjacent setup.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the CZQTV5M if you want the cheapest possible electric garage heater with no installation. It is also a smart second heater for spot warming near a workbench inside a larger garage.
Skip this if you want to heat a full 2-car garage. For that, step up to the Comfort Zone CZ220 or one of the 7500W units above.
8. DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-238 – Portable Indoor/Outdoor Pick
DR. INFRARED HEATER Portable Infrared Indoor and Outdoor Space Heater for Patio, Garage, Commercial & Residential With Remote Control, Without Thermostat, Black
1500W infrared
120V plug-in
IP55 rated
indoor/outdoor
Pros
- IP55 rated for indoor and outdoor use
- 3 power settings 900W to 1500W
- 90% reflectivity mirror aluminum
- wall and ceiling mount brackets included
- remote control included
Cons
- No built-in thermostat
- not designed for whole-garage heating
The DR-238 is the most versatile infrared heater in this guide. With its IP55 weatherproof rating, you can use it indoors in the garage or move it outside to a patio or workshop entrance. The aluminum reflector with 90% reflectivity focuses heat efficiently without wasting energy heating the air.
Three power settings (900W, 1200W, 1500W) give you flexibility for different weather conditions. The included mounting bracket works on walls or ceilings, and at 8 pounds it is light enough to move around when needed.
Dr. Infrared’s 6082 reviews show this is a proven design. Buyers use it on patios, in garages, and even in outdoor smoking areas. The clean, instant, odorless infrared heat is a major plus for covered outdoor spaces where propane would be unsafe.
The lack of a built-in thermostat is the trade-off. You control it with the remote and a power setting dial, but there is no automatic temperature maintenance. For many buyers, that is fine. For a workshop where you want consistent heat, look at the higher-wattage hardwired units.
Why IP55 Matters
An IP55 rating means the heater is protected against dust and low-pressure water jets. That opens up outdoor installations like covered patios, three-season rooms, and uninsulated garages that see some moisture. Most electric heaters in this guide are indoor-only.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the DR-238 if you want flexibility between garage and outdoor use, prefer infrared warmth, and want a unit you can move around. It is also great as supplemental heat in a larger garage near a specific work zone.
Pass on this if you need to heat a full 2-car garage from cold to warm. For whole-space heating, the 240V hardwired units above are purpose-built for that job.
Electric Garage Heater Buying Guide
Choosing the right electric garage heater comes down to five decisions: garage size, voltage, mounting style, thermostat control, and safety certifications. Below is the framework I use when helping friends pick a unit, plus a BTU calculator and circuit requirement guide that most competing guides skip.
How Many BTUs Do I Need to Heat a Garage
The general rule for an uninsulated garage in a cold climate is 50 to 60 BTU per square foot. For an insulated garage, drop that to 30 to 40 BTU per square foot. For a poorly insulated detached garage in a northern climate, plan for the high end. The table below gives you a quick reference.
For a 24×24 garage (576 sq ft), you need roughly 28,800 to 34,560 BTU in a cold climate. That translates to a 7500W to 10000W electric heater on a 240V circuit. For a standard 2-car garage (400 to 500 sq ft), 5000W to 7500W is the right range.
Insulation changes everything. A well-insulated attached garage in a moderate climate may only need a 1500W to 3000W unit. A drafty detached shop in Minnesota needs the biggest heater you can wire in.
120V vs 240V Electric Garage Heaters
120V heaters (typically 1500W) plug into any standard outlet. They are perfect for spot heating a workbench or supplementing a primary heat source. The downside is the 12.5 amp draw on a typical 15-amp circuit, which leaves little room for other tools running on the same circuit.
240V heaters (3000W to 10000W) require hardwiring to a dedicated breaker. They deliver 2x to 6x more heat and run on their own circuit, so they will not trip breakers when you fire up a table saw. For any garage over 400 sq ft, a 240V unit is the right choice.
Ceiling Mount vs Wall Mount Garage Heaters
Ceiling mount heaters save floor space and keep the heater out of the way of vehicles and equipment. They also push heat down where you need it most. The trade-off is the installation difficulty, especially if you are not already on a ladder-friendly surface.
Wall mount heaters are easier to install and simpler to service. They also let you direct heat more precisely at a workbench. For a typical 2-car garage, either works. For a workshop with high ceilings, ceiling mount is usually the better call.
Electrical Circuit Requirements
Most 240V electric garage heaters need a dedicated circuit. The Comfort Zone CZ220 and VEVOR 5000W pull 20.83 amps and need a 30-amp breaker with 10-gauge wire. The CZ230ER and DR-975 pull 31.25 amps and need a 40-amp breaker. The DR-910F pulls 42 amps and needs a 50-amp breaker with 6 AWG copper wire.
Always check your panel before buying. If you do not have the breaker space, a sub-panel install adds $500 to $1,500 to the project. A licensed electrician can tell you in 15 minutes whether your service can handle the unit you want.
Safety Certifications to Look For
ETL and UL/CUL listings are the two main safety certifications in North America. Both indicate the heater has been tested to UL safety standards. Overheat protection is standard on every model in this guide. Tip-over protection is less common on ceiling-mount units, which makes sense because they are out of reach.
Cool-touch exterior is a nice extra on models like the Comfort Zone CZ220. If you are mounting the heater at head height, that feature prevents accidental burns.
Cost to Run an Electric Garage Heater
At the US national average of about $0.17 per kWh, here is what each major unit costs per hour at full power: 1500W = $0.26, 5000W = $0.85, 6000W = $1.02, 7500W = $1.28, 10000W = $1.70. Running a 7500W heater for 4 hours a day over 4 winter months adds about $615 to your electric bill.
That is comparable to propane for similar heat output, with no combustion fumes and zero fire risk. For most homeowners, electric is the safer and more convenient choice.
FAQs
How many BTUs do I need to heat a 24×24 garage?
For a 24×24 garage (576 sq ft), you need roughly 28,800 to 34,560 BTU in a cold climate, which translates to a 7500W to 10000W electric heater on a 240V circuit. For a well-insulated garage in a moderate climate, 5000W (17,065 BTU) is often enough.
Are electric garage heaters any good?
Yes, electric garage heaters are excellent for workshops, home gyms, and automotive spaces. They convert 100% of electricity into heat, produce zero combustion fumes, and have no carbon monoxide risk. Modern units like the Comfort Zone CZ230ER and DR-975 reliably heat 2-car garages in cold climates.
What size electric garage heater for 2 car garage?
For a standard 2-car garage (400 to 500 sq ft), a 5000W to 7500W 240V heater is the right choice. The Comfort Zone CZ220 (5000W) covers up to 1000 sq ft, while the CZ230ER and DR-975 (7500W each) cover up to 1250 sq ft with extra headroom for poorly insulated spaces.
Can I use a space heater in my garage?
A small 120V space heater works for spot heating a workbench area, but it cannot heat a full garage. For whole-garage heating, you need a 240V hardwired unit like the Comfort Zone CZ230ER or DR-975. Always check that the heater is rated for garage or workshop use before installing.
How to install a 240V garage heater?
A 240V garage heater must be hardwired to a dedicated breaker (typically 30-amp to 50-amp depending on wattage). Most homeowners hire a licensed electrician for the install, which runs $300 to $800 depending on panel space and wire run length. The heater itself mounts to ceiling or wall brackets included with the unit.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing eight units, the Comfort Zone CZ230ER earns our pick as the best electric garage heater for most homeowners in 2026. It delivers 7500W of fan-forced heat, a remote-controlled digital thermostat, a 12-hour timer, and a 1250 sq ft coverage area at a price that undercuts most competitors. For a serious workshop or home gym, it is the right balance of power, features, and value.
If you want commercial-grade durability and do not mind paying slightly more, the Dr. Infrared DR-975 is the runner-up. If your budget is tight and you need a proven 5000W unit, the Comfort Zone CZ220 has 3546 reviews backing its performance. For small spaces and supplemental heat, the Comfort Zone CZQTV5M infrared heater at under $50 is a no-brainer.
Whichever unit you choose, plan for the electrical work upfront. A dedicated 240V circuit is non-negotiable for anything over 5000W, and a licensed electrician is the safest way to get it done. With the right heater and the right circuit, you can work in your garage year-round, even when the temperature outside drops below freezing.