Clarke Garage Heater Review
Clarke is a well-known brand in the workshop and garage equipment space, offering a range of propane, electric, and diesel heaters. This review breaks down the top Clarke garage heater models based on published specs, owner feedback, and brand reliability to help you choose the right one for your workspace.
Quick answer
The best Clarke garage heater for most users is the Clarke IH5000 (infrared propane heater) for its quiet operation and efficient spot heating. For a powerful forced-air option, the Clarke CHT820 is the top pick for quickly heating larger garages and workshops.
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Research updated June 2026.
Clarke IH5000 Infrared Propane Heater
Quiet, efficient infrared heat for medium garages.
| Model | Best For | BTU Output | Fuel | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clarke IH5000 | Best Overall / Quiet Heat | 15,000 - 30,000 | Propane | 4.5/5 |
| Clarke CHT820 | Large Garage Forced Air | 80,000 - 200,000 | Propane | 4.3/5 |
| Clarke CHT440 | Medium Garage Forced Air | 40,000 - 110,000 | Propane | 4.2/5 |
| Clarke DE20 | Diesel / Kerosene Workshop | 200,000 | Diesel / Kerosene | 4.1/5 |
| Clarke 2kW Fan Heater | Small Electric / Budget | 6,800 | Electric | 4.0/5 |
Clarke IH5000 Infrared Propane Heater
Best Overall / Quiet HeatPros
- Very quiet operation
- No fan needed, heats objects directly
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Requires ventilation
- Not ideal for whole-room heating in large spaces
The Clarke IH5000 is a top-rated infrared propane heater that uses radiant heat to warm people and objects directly, rather than heating the air. This makes it exceptionally quiet compared to forced-air models, as there is no noisy fan. Owner reviews consistently praise its efficiency and the comfort of the heat, noting it feels like standing in sunlight.
With a variable output from 15,000 to 30,000 BTU, it is suitable for garages up to around 700 square feet. The unit is lightweight and easy to move, and it features a safety shut-off. However, like all propane heaters, it requires adequate ventilation and is best for spot heating or well-insulated spaces.
Clarke CHT820 Forced Air Propane Heater
Best for Large GaragesPros
- Very high heat output
- Heats large spaces quickly
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons
- Noisy fan operation
- Consumes propane quickly at high settings
The Clarke CHT820 is a heavy-duty forced-air propane heater designed for large garages, workshops, and construction sites. With an output range of 80,000 to 200,000 BTU, it can rapidly raise the temperature in spaces up to 2,000 square feet. Owner feedback highlights its powerful airflow and quick heating capability, making it ideal for cold climates or drafty buildings.
The unit includes a variable thermostat and a built-in fan that distributes heat evenly. The trade-off is noise, as the fan is quite loud during operation. It also requires a large propane tank and good ventilation. For users who need raw heating power for a big space, the CHT820 is a reliable workhorse.
Clarke CHT440 Forced Air Propane Heater
Best for Medium GaragesPros
- Good balance of power and portability
- Adjustable heat settings
- Reliable ignition
Cons
- Fan is still noticeable
- Not as efficient as infrared for spot heating
The Clarke CHT440 is a mid-range forced-air propane heater that bridges the gap between the small electric units and the massive CHT820. It offers a variable output from 40,000 to 110,000 BTU, making it a good fit for standard two-car garages and workshops up to 1,000 square feet. Owners report that it heats up a 20x20 garage in about 10-15 minutes.
It is more portable than the larger model and still delivers substantial heat. The fan is audible but not overly disruptive for a workshop environment. It includes a thermostat and safety features. This model is a solid choice for users who need more power than infrared provides but do not require the extreme output of the CHT820.
Clarke DE20 Diesel / Kerosene Heater
Best for Diesel / KerosenePros
- Extremely high heat output
- Runs on cheaper diesel or kerosene
- Durable construction for job sites
Cons
- Produces fumes, requires excellent ventilation
- Heavy and not very portable
- Noisy fan
The Clarke DE20 is a direct-fired diesel and kerosene heater designed for large, open workshops and construction sites. With a massive 200,000 BTU output, it can heat very large spaces quickly. Owner reviews note its robust build and ability to keep a large, uninsulated workshop comfortable even in freezing conditions.
This heater is not for enclosed home garages due to the fumes it produces. It requires a well-ventilated area. It is heavier and noisier than propane models. The DE20 is best suited for professional use or for very large, open spaces where propane tanks are not practical.
Clarke 2kW Fan Heater
Best Budget ElectricPros
- Very cheap to buy
- No fumes, safe for enclosed spaces
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Very low heat output
- Only suitable for very small spaces or spot heating
The Clarke 2kW Fan Heater is the most affordable and simplest option in the range. It is an electric fan heater that plugs into a standard wall outlet and produces 6,800 BTU of heat. Owners use it for small workshops, sheds, or as a supplementary heater for a desk area. It is safe to use indoors with no ventilation concerns.
However, its heating capacity is very limited. It will struggle to warm a standard two-car garage in cold weather. It is best viewed as a personal heater for a small, insulated space or for taking the chill off a tiny workshop. It is not a replacement for a propane or diesel heater for serious garage heating.
What to Check Before Buying a Clarke Garage Heater
Choosing the right heater depends on your garage size, insulation, and ventilation. Measure your garage square footage first. For a standard 20x20 garage (400 sq ft), a 30,000 to 60,000 BTU heater is usually sufficient. For larger or uninsulated spaces, aim for 80,000 BTU or more.
Ventilation is critical for propane and diesel heaters. These units consume oxygen and produce carbon monoxide. Never use them in a tightly sealed garage without opening a door or window. Electric heaters are the safest for enclosed spaces but have the lowest heat output.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Garage Heater
A common mistake is buying a heater that is too small for the space. An undersized unit will run constantly and never reach a comfortable temperature, wasting fuel. Conversely, an oversized heater can be noisy and consume fuel too quickly.
Another mistake is ignoring ventilation requirements. Many users buy a powerful propane or diesel heater without planning for airflow. This is a serious safety hazard. Always factor in the need for fresh air when choosing a combustion-based heater.
FAQs
Are Clarke garage heaters any good?
Yes, Clarke is a reputable brand in the workshop equipment market, and their heaters generally receive positive feedback for reliability and performance based on owner reviews.
What size Clarke heater do I need for a 2-car garage?
A 2-car garage (approx 400-500 sq ft) typically needs a heater with 30,000 to 60,000 BTU. The Clarke IH5000 or CHT440 are good options for this size.
Can I use a Clarke propane heater in my garage?
Yes, but you must ensure adequate ventilation. Propane heaters consume oxygen and produce carbon monoxide, so you need to keep a door or window partially open.
Is the Clarke IH5000 quiet?
Yes, the IH5000 is an infrared heater with no fan, making it very quiet. It is one of the quietest options for garage heating.
What is the difference between the Clarke CHT440 and CHT820?
The CHT440 outputs 40,000-110,000 BTU and is for medium garages. The CHT820 outputs 80,000-200,000 BTU and is for large garages and workshops.
Does Clarke make an electric garage heater?
Yes, Clarke offers a 2kW electric fan heater, but it is only suitable for very small spaces or spot heating due to its low BTU output.
Can I run a Clarke diesel heater indoors?
No, diesel and kerosene heaters like the Clarke DE20 produce harmful fumes and must only be used in well-ventilated areas, not in enclosed home garages.
How do I calculate the BTU needed for my garage?
A rough guide is 30-40 BTU per square foot for a well-insulated garage, and 50-60 BTU per square foot for a poorly insulated one. Multiply your garage's square footage by this number.
Do Clarke heaters have a thermostat?
Many Clarke forced-air models, like the CHT440 and CHT820, include an adjustable thermostat. The IH5000 infrared model also has variable heat settings.
Where are Clarke heaters made?
Clarke is a UK-based brand, and many of their products are manufactured in China to their specifications, similar to many other tool and equipment brands.
What safety features do Clarke heaters have?
Most Clarke heaters include safety features like overheat protection and a tip-over shut-off switch to prevent accidents.
Can I use a Clarke heater in a tent or camping?
Clarke heaters are designed for garages and workshops, not for tents. Using propane or diesel heaters in tents is extremely dangerous due to carbon monoxide poisoning risk.
Our verdict
For most home garage users, the Clarke IH5000 is the best overall choice due to its quiet, efficient infrared heat. If you need to heat a large space quickly, the Clarke CHT820 is the best forced-air option. For a budget electric solution, the 2kW fan heater is adequate for very small areas.