Gas vs Electric Garage Heaters: Which Should You Choose?
You’ve decided you’re done freezing in the garage — but now comes the big question: gas or electric?
Both types of garage heaters can get the job done, but the right choice depends on your garage size, insulation, budget, and how you use the space.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and costs of gas vs electric garage heaters in Calgary.
From installation pricing to performance on cold January mornings, we’ll help you figure out which heater actually makes sense for your setup.
The Great Garage Heater Debate
So you've decided you're done freezing every time you grab a tool or start your car in January. You're getting a garage heater. But now you hit the fork in the road: Gas or Electric?
It's a bit like choosing between coffee and tea — both warm you up, both do the job, but each comes with pros, cons, and quirks. Let's settle the debate with a clear Calgary perspective.
The Quick Answer (If You're in a Rush)
Gas Heater
Best for larger garages, daily use, lower long-term operating costs. Higher upfront cost.
Electric Heater
Best for smaller garages, light use, cheaper install. Higher running costs.
If you want the lowest lifetime cost → Gas.
If you want the cheapest upfront install → Electric.
Upfront Costs
Gas Heater:
- Equipment: $1,200–$2,500
- Install: $1,500–$3,000 (gas line, venting, mounting)
- Total: $2,500–$5,000
Electric Heater:
- Equipment: $400–$1,000
- Install: $300–$1,500 (240V circuit, breaker, wiring)
- Total: $700–$2,500
Verdict: Electric wins upfront.
Operating Costs (Calgary Math)
Gas:
- 30k BTU = ~$1.50–$2.00 per 3–4 hrs of runtime.
- Typical 2-car garage in winter: $20–$50/month.
Electric:
- 5kW heater = ~70¢/hr.
- Run a few hours daily → $50–$150/month.
Verdict: Gas wins long-term (by a mile if you use it daily).
Performance & Recovery Time
- Gas: Cranks out high BTUs quickly, great recovery when the door opens in -20°C weather.
- Electric: Slower warm-up, less effective for large spaces or frequent door use.
Verdict: Gas heaters win for "open-close-open-close" Calgary garages.
Installation Complexity & Space Requirements
Installation Complexity
- Gas: Requires venting, gas line, permits. Always pro-installed.
- Electric: Simple install if panel capacity is there. Some handy homeowners DIY (if the circuit already exists).
Verdict: Electric wins for ease.
Space & Mounting
- Gas heaters: Usually ceiling-mounted box units (forced air or infrared). Need 12–18" clearance from combustibles.
- Electric heaters: Smaller, lighter, wall- or ceiling-mount. Infrared panels even flatter.
Verdict: Electric is more compact, but gas is standard for big garages.
Safety & Environmental Considerations
Safety Considerations
- Gas: Produces combustion gases → needs proper venting + CO detector.
- Electric: No combustion, but can overload circuits if improperly installed.
Verdict: Tie — both safe if installed correctly.
Environmental Impact
- Gas: Natural gas is cheaper but fossil fuel-based. Produces CO₂.
- Electric: Potentially cleaner depending on Alberta's power mix (currently heavy on natural gas, but transitioning). Higher kWh = higher carbon footprint here than in BC/Ontario.
Verdict: In Alberta, neither is "green," but electric may improve as the grid cleans up.
Calgary-Specific Considerations & Decision Guide
Calgary-Specific Considerations
- Gas rates in Alberta are cheap compared to electricity → makes gas heaters more attractive here than in BC or Ontario.
- Extreme cold snaps make gas heaters shine with faster recovery.
- Permit requirements: City of Calgary requires permits for gas installs, which adds cost. Electric may not require a permit if it's a straightforward circuit.
Choose Gas if:
- You have a 2- or 3-car garage.
- You'll use it daily in winter.
- You want lowest long-term cost.
Choose Electric if:
- You have a 1-car insulated garage.
- You'll only use it occasionally.
- You want cheap install and don't mind higher monthly bills.
Pick the Winner for Your Garage
Gas and electric garage heaters both get the job done — but your choice depends on space, budget, and usage.
Gas
More upfront, less monthly.
Electric
Less upfront, more monthly.
In Calgary, with cheap gas and brutal winters, gas heaters usually win for bigger garages and frequent use. Electric works for small, insulated garages with occasional use.
Either way, get the size right, install it safely, and enjoy a garage that doesn't double as a meat locker.
About HVACHELP.pro
At HVACHELP.pro, we believe that informed homeowners make the best decisions. That's why we're dedicated to providing Calgary residents with straightforward, honest answers about all things HVAC—from selecting the right garage heater to understanding the nuances of ductless systems and everything in between.
Our mission is to cut through the jargon and deliver clear, actionable insights tailored to Alberta's unique climate challenges. We're here to empower you with the knowledge to keep your home comfortable, efficient, and safe, all winter long.
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