Unit Heaters

Unit Heaters: A Practical Solution for Heating Large Spaces

Unit heaters are self-contained, non-ducted heating systems ideal for warming large spaces like warehouses, factories, and commercial garages. Known for their efficiency, ease of installation, and independent operation, they combine a heating element with a fan or blower to circulate warm air without the need for extensive ductwork. Their versatility makes them suitable for various industrial and commercial settings, including underground parking, food processing plants, and steel mills. With accessible components and simple maintenance, unit heaters provide a practical, low-disruption heating solution powered by electricity, gas, water, or steam.

What Types of Unit Heaters Are Available?

Electric Unit Heaters: Simple to install and ideal for smaller areas or locations without gas access. However, they can be more expensive to operate due to electricity costs.
Indirect Fired Unit Heaters: These units use natural gas, propane, or oil as fuel and tend to offer more cost-effective long-term operation.
Hydronic Unit Heaters: Operate using hot water from a central boiler, making them suitable for facilities already equipped with hydronic heating systems.
Steam Unit Heaters: Common in industrial environments, especially where continuous, high-intensity heat is needed.

Why Are Unit Heaters Beneficial for Warehouses?

1. Cost-Effective and Efficient
Unit heaters provide direct warmth to targeted areas without the need for extensive ductwork, which minimizes installation and maintenance costs. Their efficiency ensures consistent heating even in vast or open warehouse spaces.

2. Flexible Installation Options
They can be installed in either vertical or horizontal configurations to match the layout of the facility. This flexibility allows them to be placed strategically for optimal heat distribution, whether near doors, ceilings, or along walls.

3. Enhanced Safety
In warehouses storing flammable materials, electric unit heaters are a safer option as they eliminate combustion risks. This added safety measure helps protect personnel and assets alike.

4. Energy Efficiency Choices
Modern unit heaters offer high-efficiency options, including models with variable-speed fans and modulating controls, which help reduce energy consumption and optimize performance.

What Should Be Considered During Installation?

Strategic Positioning: Proper placement is key to avoiding cold spots and ensuring uniform heat coverage. In low-ceiling areas, heaters are typically positioned along the periphery, while in high-bay settings, centralized vertical mounting may be more effective.
Ventilation Requirements: For gas-powered units, proper ventilation is essential to remove combustion by-products and maintain indoor air quality. Ensuring compliance with safety standards is crucial in these cases.

Discover Unit Heaters at Our Canadian Warehouse

King Electric KB ECO2S Two Stage Unit Heater

The King Electric KB ECO2S Two-Stage Electronic Unit Heater is a high-performance, energy-efficient solution for heating large spaces like warehouses and garages. Featuring an advanced ECO2S electronic thermostat with remote control, it intelligently adjusts between two heating stages to conserve energy while maintaining comfort. The Eco mode minimizes power usage, and added features like timer, fan-only operation, auto memory, and Smart Limit Protection® enhance safety and convenience. With spiral steel elements, a high CFM rating, and included wall/ceiling bracket, it ensures even heat distribution and easy installation.

King Electric GH Compact Heavy Duty Unit Heater

The King Electric GH Compact Heavy Duty Unit Heater is a durable and efficient heating solution designed for large, unconditioned spaces like workshops, garages, barns, and commercial settings. Featuring a spiral finned steel element and high CFM output, it delivers reliable warmth while promoting cooler element operation for extended lifespan. Key features include a built-in thermostat, adjustable louvers, safety indicator lights, Smart Limit Protection®, and a maintenance-free motor. Easy to install with a universal wall/ceiling bracket, this USA-made heater is available in 5000W, 7500W, and 10000W models, offering strong air throw and consistent temperature rise with a 3-year limited warranty.

King Electric EKB Garage Heaters

The King Electric EKB Garage Heaters feature rapid heat transfer through dual NiChrome coil elements and a built-in thermostat adjustable from 40 to 85°F. Equipped with patented Smart Limit Protection® for enhanced safety, these heaters are designed for high-capacity performance, heating up to 750 sq ft depending on the model. A universal mounting bracket allows for flexible wall or ceiling installation with directional airflow.

FAQs

1. Can I use a unit heater in a residential garage without ductwork?

Yes, unit heaters are ideal for residential garages because they are self-contained and don't require ductwork. They mount easily to walls or ceilings and directly heat the space using forced air, making them a cost-effective and efficient option for spot heating areas like garages or workshops.

2. What’s the difference between a unit heater and a space heater?

While both provide localized heat, unit heaters are typically mounted and designed for larger, open areas like warehouses or garages, using powerful blowers. Space heaters are portable and best for smaller, enclosed rooms. Unit heaters also often offer more robust, long-term heating solutions.

3. Do unit heaters require ventilation?

Gas-fired unit heaters usually require proper ventilation to expel combustion gases safely outdoors, either through a flue or direct venting system. Electric unit heaters don’t produce combustion gases and therefore do not require ventilation, making them easier to install in enclosed spaces.

4. How do I determine the correct size of unit heater for my space?

To size a unit heater, calculate the space’s cubic footage and multiply by the desired temperature rise and insulation factor. Generally, a professional uses BTU (British Thermal Units) or kW formulas to ensure the unit is powerful enough without being wastefully oversized.

5. Can I install a unit heater in a commercial kitchen or food prep area?

Unit heaters can be used in commercial kitchens if they are approved for that environment and installed in compliance with local health and fire codes. Stainless steel models are often preferred due to corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning in food-safe zones.