The best way to heat a detached garage in Calgary is usually in-floor radiant heat or a gas unit heater — the right choice depends on how you use the space and how well it's insulated. Here's how the options compare.
Your Garage Gets Cold. Here’s How to Fix That.
A heated garage in Calgary is a luxury that quickly becomes a necessity once you’ve had one. Here are the main options for heating a detached garage.
Heating Option Comparison
| System | Upfront Cost | Running Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas tube radiant heater | $1,500–$4,000 | Low | Most detached garages |
| In-floor hydronic heat | $15,000–$35,000 | Lowest | New builds, premium garages |
| Forced air gas furnace | $3,000–$7,000 | Low–Medium | Garages with living space above |
| Electric baseboard | $400–$1,500 | High | Small garages, budget option |
| Mini-split heat pump | $3,500–$8,000 | Low (to -20°C) | Modern, efficient, workshops |
| Wood stove | $2,000–$5,000 | Very low (wood) | Rural, acreage garages |
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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.
Gas Tube Radiant Heaters (Most Popular Calgary Choice)
Suspended from the ceiling, radiant tube heaters warm objects and people directly — not just the air. They’re fast, efficient, and don’t stir up dust.
- BTU range: 45,000–100,000 BTU for residential garages
- Popular brands: Empire, Reznor, Roberts Gordon
- Requires: gas line to garage, flue/venting, 120V power for controls
- Cost installed: $1,500–$4,000 (including gas line extension)
In-Floor Hydronic Heat (The Gold Standard)
PEX tubing in the concrete slab, circulated with hot water from a boiler. The most comfortable and efficient system for a premium Calgary garage.
- Even heat from the ground up
- Works as a snowmelt system under garage apron (add-on)
- Requires boiler or connection to existing home boiler system
- Cost installed: $15,000–$35,000 for a double garage
Cold Climate Mini-Split (Heat Pump)
Modern mini-splits work down to -25°C–-30°C. They heat and cool efficiently. Ideal for a workshop or finished garage that doubles as a living space.
- No gas line required
- Cools in summer (bonus)
- Very quiet
- Cost installed: $3,500–$8,000 including electrical
- Popular brands: Mitsubishi, Daikin, LG
Sizing Your Heater for Calgary
Rough rule: 50 BTU per square foot for a well-insulated Calgary garage. Double that for poor insulation.
| Garage Size | Insulated BTU Needed |
|---|---|
| Single (240 sq ft) | 12,000–15,000 BTU |
| Double (440 sq ft) | 22,000–30,000 BTU |
| Triple (660 sq ft) | 33,000–45,000 BTU |
| Large shop (1,000 sq ft) | 50,000–75,000 BTU |
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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.
Gas Line to Detached Garage
Running a gas line from the house to a detached garage requires a permit and inspection. Cost: $1,500–$4,000 depending on distance and trench requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
In-floor radiant heat for even, comfortable warmth, or a gas or electric unit heater for lower up-front cost.
For a shop or hobby space you use often, yes — it's comfortable and efficient, though it costs more to install.
Yes — insulation is what makes any heating system practical and affordable to run.
Yes — electric unit heaters work well for smaller or occasionally-used garages.
Related reading: garage insulation guide, heated garage builds, and workshop garage builds