Detached builds - what’s the best way to heat?

[calebm1001]

Hey all,

Assuming we have great insulation, 500-750 square feet and no way to get gas to the building.

what’s the best way to heat the interior?

what are you all using that’s economical?

[calebm1001]

In Michigan so it gets cold!!

[wbond]

Can you run a 220 line? If so, go with an electric 220 heater. That's what i use in Michigan in my garage.

[calebm1001]

I believe it could. Electric will be run in a week or two. Will have to note that. Thanks!

[Wizard of Coz]

Burn some wood! How about a lantern. Just wear some long John's and a hand warmer some gloves.
kerosene heater
pellet stove
propane/ natural gas

[calebm1001]

I wish I could get a wood stove in there. Insurance won’t be happy.

[Supraracer]

Mini Split if you have electric. That way you can have heat and AC. I have a 24000 btu unit in my 800 sf garage without good insulation. It works great. Could have a back up electric heater for the sub-zero days. I haven't had any super cold days here is PA with it yet.

[wbond]

I went with the Fahrenheat FLCH4R. It was about 200 watts less than another recommended one Fahrenheat FUH54, but it had more features i was looking for. Remote control, run on fan after shutdown, ability to toggle between lo/hi heat once it was brought up to desired temperature.

Mini split would be great, but make sure it's one that performs well in the cold. Some have very poor performance near the end of the operating temperature range.

[calebm1001]

This is exactly what I’m trying to find out for this post. Thanks for passing this along.

About how long does it take to really kick in and heat up your space after a cold day?

[mthunt]

The best option is a Hot Dawg heater. They are meant for a garage which is similar in size.

https://www.modinehvac.com/web/products/residential-gashydronic-unit-heaters-hotdawg/hot-dawg-power-vented-hd.htm

[Fhacker]

For a cheaper solution I have a Mr. heater tank top propane heater. 29000-45000 Btus It heated my 2 car garage to 60 r so in about 15-20 minutes when about 20 degrees outside. Left on high it will run you out of garage.

[calebm1001]

I’ve got something like that currently but I found last season that I was running through propane way too fast. It became a pain in the ass but it’s definitely a great option. Just looking for something a little more “plug and play”.