For farmers, agronomists, and home gardeners, the ability to grow crops year-round can be a game-changer. While high tunnels and cold frames provide passive protection from the elements, true winter gardening requires a well-designed greenhouse heating system. Selecting the right heater depends on the size of the greenhouse, local climate conditions, and power availability. Below, we review some of the best heaters available today and how they can be integrated into greenhouse operations, whether for small backyard plots or larger commercial applications.
Best Greenhouse Heaters: A Review
- Best Overall: Bio Green Palma 110V Greenhouse Heater
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- Key Features: This electric heater is praised for its digital thermostat, compact design, and automatic shut-off safety feature. It’s lightweight and energy-efficient, making it perfect for small to medium-sized greenhouses.
- Why It’s Great: In tests, the Bio Green Palma stood out for its ease of use and ability to maintain stable temperatures even in freezing weather. Its digital thermostat ensures precise temperature control, crucial for keeping tender plants alive during winter.
- Best Value: Dyna-Glo 25,000 BTU LP Convection Heater
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- Key Features: This propane-powered heater offers exceptional heating capacity at an affordable price. Its convection heat circulates warmth efficiently throughout the greenhouse.
- Why It’s Great: For larger greenhouses, this model provides a cost-effective way to heat significant spaces. It requires minimal maintenance and is ideal for farmers looking to cut down on energy costs.
- Best Electric: Dr. Infrared Heater DR-218 Greenhouse Workshop Heater
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- Key Features: This electric heater is designed specifically for greenhouses and workshops, boasting high efficiency and a built-in fan to distribute warm air.
- Why It’s Great: It’s a fantastic option for smaller greenhouses that need quick, consistent warmth. Its compact design allows for easy placement without taking up too much space, and it performs well in damp conditions.
- Best Gas Heater: Mr. Heater 18,000 BTU Propane Cabinet Heater
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- Key Features: This portable propane heater provides 18,000 BTUs of heat and includes a built-in oxygen depletion sensor for safety.
- Why It’s Great: Mr. Heater is a go-to for greenhouse operators who need a flexible, powerful heating option. The portability of this unit makes it easy to move around, and its propane fuel source makes it independent of electricity.
- Best for Small Areas: Vornado Whole-Room Heater With Auto Climate
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- Key Features: This small electric heater is designed for whole-room heating, featuring automatic climate control to maintain a set temperature.
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for backyard greenhouses or small growing spaces, the Vornado provides just the right amount of heat for sensitive plants without using excessive energy.
- Best for Large Areas: Dr. Infrared Heater DR-975 7,500-Watt Electric Heater
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- Key Features: This heavy-duty electric heater is made for larger spaces, delivering 7,500 watts of power with a ceiling-mounted design to save floor space.
- Why It’s Great: If you manage a larger greenhouse, this heater ensures even heat distribution. Its powerful output makes it ideal for commercial applications where consistent temperatures are crucial.
- Best Ceiling-Mounted: Comfort Zone Ceiling-Mounted 5,000-Watt Heater
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- Key Features: This model is designed for efficient ceiling mounting, freeing up floor space while delivering 5,000 watts of heating power.
- Why It’s Great: Its compact, space-saving design makes it ideal for greenhouses where floor space is limited. It’s easy to install and provides robust heating for medium-sized operations.
- Best Wall-Mounted: HearthSense 30,000 BTU Vent-Free Gas Wall Heater
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- Key Features: This gas heater is vent-free and features a high BTU output, perfect for heating larger areas without requiring a complex ventilation system.
- Why It’s Great: Farmers and growers with limited floor space will appreciate the powerful output and compact design of this wall-mounted unit. Its vent-free operation makes it a hassle-free option for greenhouses.
- Best Seed Tray Heater: Vivosun Seedling Heat Mat and Digital Thermostat
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- Key Features: This heater is specifically designed for seed trays, providing the perfect warmth for early germination. The digital thermostat allows precise control over the soil temperature.
- Why It’s Great: Ideal for starting plants during colder months, this heat mat ensures even warmth across seed trays, promoting healthy and uniform growth.
Key Considerations for Selecting a Greenhouse Heater
When choosing a greenhouse heater, several factors must be considered:
- Greenhouse Size: Smaller greenhouses (up to 120 square feet) may only require a simple electric heater, while larger spaces benefit from more powerful propane or gas options.
- Climate Conditions: Local temperatures play a critical role in determining heater size and type. For very cold regions, a higher BTU-rated heater is essential.
- Energy Source: Electric heaters are easy to install but may not be practical for larger setups. Propane or gas heaters provide greater power but require ventilation and fuel management.
A well-designed greenhouse heating system is an essential investment for year-round growing, whether for a small backyard greenhouse or a larger farm operation. The right heater can extend the gardening season, protect crops from frost, and ensure healthy plant growth even in the coldest conditions. From electric to propane-powered models, the best greenhouse heaters offer a range of features, including safety mechanisms, portability, and energy efficiency, making winter gardening simpler and more efficient.
