Homeowners are looking for ways to stay healthy and entertained at home— especially outdoors— amidst the dismal predictions about the coronavirus spreading more in the winter months.
With at-home hobbies replacing outings and events, outdoor hobbies are turning into year-round mainstays. But what about heat during the cold months? If you’re feeling the cold air blowing into your open garage door, it’s time to find a smarter, safer way to keep yourself comfortable while spending more time in your garage.
Heating methods offer a wide range of cost, energy efficiency, and safety, so it’s important to consider all the variables before settling on an option.
Cost. As far as up-front cost goes, radiant heat installed under your garage floor presents the highest initial cost of installation. It involves removing your current floor, disposing of it properly in a dumpster (of course!), and using a radiant heat installation kit. Once installed, radiant heat offers high efficiency ratings and low operating cost. In the coldest climates, however, it may not be sufficient as the only source of heat for the space.
Energy Efficiency. When it comes to efficiency, radiant heat is known for its lowest cost of operation. Next on the list is sealed combustion heat. Readily available at home supply stores, sealed combustion heaters draw fresh air in from outdoors while burning fuel efficiently. Self-installation can reduce initial costs, but when in doubt, hire a professional to be sure.
Safety. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 25,000 fires each year are caused by space heaters. A simple electric space heater poses the lowest initial cost of installation. Sizes can range from small, desktop models to large room-sized models. Beyond the initial cost of purchase, though, electric consumption can be a significant consideration. The cost of operating common electric space heaters from major department stores can raise a monthly electric bill from $60 to $150 monthly or more.
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