All About Warehouse Heating

We may see them as gray, featureless boxes, but warehouses are one of the backbones of modern industry. As a critical part of the logistics supply chain, warehouses store everything from automotive parts to perishable goods to the stuff you buy on Amazon and Temu.

Hence, heating a warehouse effectively and efficiently is critical for businesses and logistics providers. Proper heating not only ensures employee comfort and safety but also protects goods, machinery, and equipment from damage caused by cold weather.

However, this is easier said than done. Due to their large size, high ceilings, and massive doors, warehouses present unique challenges when it comes to heating. In this guide, we discuss the challenges of heating warehouses, the different types of warehouse heating systems, and what to consider when choosing a warehouse heater.

The Challenges of Heating Warehouses

Warehouses pose a unique challenge when it comes to heating, compared to other types of industrial spaces. These challenges include:

Large Spaces

Warehouses have vast open spaces that can be difficult to heat evenly and quickly.

High Ceilings

Since heat naturally rises, this can result in heat loss and uneven temperature distribution.

Poor Insulation

Older warehouses or structures with poor insulation can lose heat rapidly.

Open Loading Docks and Doors

Frequent opening and closing of large doors lead to significant heat loss.

Energy Costs

Heating such large open spaces, with massive and frequently used loading doors, can result in high energy bills without proper efficiency measures. Based on data by the US Energy Information Administration, space heating takes up for the largest share of energy consumption in warehouse and storage buildings at 39%.

Types of Warehouse Heating Systems

Here are the most common types of heating systems used in warehouses, along with their pros and cons:

1. Unit Heaters

Unit heaters are one of the most popular options for warehouses. They are mounted on the ceiling or walls and use gas, electric, or hydronic energy to generate and distribute heat.

Individual space heaters are the most common heating equipment used in US warehouses.

Gas

Gas fired unit heaters can heat large spaces such as garages and warehouses, and they are both affordable and effective. These units may be a great choice for warehouse owners who are looking for a more cost effective option for their warehouse.

Electric

Another popular option for heating warehouses is electric unit heaters. While these units are a lot more expensive than gas unit heaters to operate, they have some long-term advantages.

Electric heaters require less extensive installation, last upwards of 20 to 30 years, and are safer than gas units, as there is no risk of a leak.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy to install
• Ideal for zone heating

Cons:

• Limited efficiency in very large spaces
• Heat can rise and collect near the ceiling

Best for:

Small to medium-sized warehouses with minimal insulation issues or space heating in larger spaces.

Our recommended warehouse gas unit heater:

Reznor UDXC-100 100,000 BTU Power Vented Gas Fired Unit Heater – Separated Combustion Convertible

With an industry leading 82-83% thermal efficiency and a variety of different BTUs, the UDXC series of heaters offer exceptional heat performance for areas both large and small. The 30,000 – 125,000 BTU models are all approved for use in commercial buildings as well as residential garages and workshops. This UDXC100  with 100,000 BTUs is ideal for medium to large-sized spaces.

The standout feature of the UDXC series is the ability to be field-converted from a power-vented unit heater to a separated combustion heater with an optional kit. When used in a separated combustion installation, the air used for combustion is pulled in from the outside or another room rather than from within the space. This process helps ensure that all air introduced to the inside of the heater is fresh and free of harmful particulates, making these heaters particularly useful in settings where chemicals are stored or frequently used, and/or humidity levels tend to be high. It is also a great choice for dusty environments like wood shops

Our recommended electric warehouse unit heater:

Reznor EUH-10 10kW / 34,121 BTU Commercial / Industrial Multi-Phase Low-Static Axial Fan Electric Unit Heater

At 240V, the EUH10 offers a 10 kW / 10,000 Watt heater. It features a single-speed fan giving you 191 min. / 957 max. CFMs and a temperature rise of 33°F. It is a powerful multi-phase heater and draws 41.7 amps when connected for 240V, single-phase use and 24.1 amps when wired for 240V, 3-phase use. Kilowatts and amperage draw is slightly lower when connected for 208V use.

The EUH heaters feature a high temperature limit switch with automatic reset, internal overload protection. It has a 12 inch fan and the fan motor is designed for low-noise operation with a vibration- and noise-isolated fan motor. The discharge air is easily directed with its individually adjustable, horizontal louvers – allowing you to direct the heated air where you need it.

2. Radiant Heaters

Radiant heating systems use infrared technology to directly heat objects and people rather than the air. They are often installed over workspaces.

Pros:

• Highly efficient, especially in open or poorly insulated spaces
• Reduces energy loss thanks to direct heating

Cons:

• Limited coverage
• Upfront installation costs can be high

Best for:

Warehouses with high ceilings or frequent door openings.

3. Forced-Air Heaters

Forced-air heating systems blow warm air throughout the warehouse using ducts or fans.

Pros:

• Provides consistent heating for large areas
• Quick heating times

Cons:

• Heat loss can occur in high-ceiling spaces
• Energy costs may be high without proper zoning

Best for:

Larger warehouses with good insulation.

4. Unit Heaters with Destratification Fans

Destratification fans work alongside unit heaters to redistribute heat that rises to the ceiling back to ground level.

Pros:

Reduces heat loss and ensures even temperature distribution

Cons: 

• Requires high initial investment
• Not ideal for very small spaces

Best for:

Warehouses with high ceilings to maximize heating efficiency.

5. Warm Air Heating Systems

These systems generate warm air using gas burners or electric heating elements and distribute it through ducts or direct airflow.

Pros:

• Effective for large spaces
• Provides uniform heating

Cons: 

• High energy costs
• Dependent on the efficiency of insulation

Best for:

Large, enclosed warehouses with relatively low heat loss.

6. Boilers and Hydronic Systems

Hydronic systems use heated water or steam to provide radiant heat via pipes or panels.

Pros: 

• Highly efficient
• Provides consistent and uniform heating

Cons:

• Expensive upfront installation
• Slower to heat compared to forced-air systems

Best for:

Warehouses that require long-term heating with high energy efficiency.

Our recommended warehouse hydronic heater:

Reznor UWS22/31 Horizontal/Vertical Suspended Hydronic Unit Heater

Reznor’s UWS series suspended hydronic heaters use a technologically advanced system of hot water pressure to deliver even, effective heat in commercial and industrial settings. 

The series features a front facing design with all hook-ups on the rear of the unit. The multi-speed motor is totally enclosed and protected against water spray. In addition to the quiet operation, the UWS line also offers tailored air delivery with its directional control options from horizontal to vertical and all angles in between. Users can choose from two-point suspension for horizontal discharge and four-point suspension for downward discharge.

This model is capable of 22,000 BTUs on low and 31,000 BTUs on high. The durable steel tubing and industrial design makes this unit suited for use at a high working hot water pressure up to 150 psi.

Reznor Hydronic Unit Heaters can be used in a variety of installations, including but not limited to Warehouses and Distribution Centers, Loading Dock Doors, Retail Establishments, Sports Facilities and Hospitals/Medical Facilities.

What to Consider When Choosing a Warehouse Heater

Warehouse Size and Layout

🗹 Large warehouses may require centralized or multiple zone heating systems.

🗹 High ceilings may necessitate destratification fans or radiant heaters.

Energy Source

🗹 Determine whether natural gas, propane, electricity, or hydronic systems are feasible for your location and budget.

Insulation

🗹 Evaluate the level of insulation to determine heating requirements. Poorly insulated spaces may benefit from radiant heating solutions.

Climate and External Temperatures

🗹 Cold climates may require high-capacity heating systems, while mild climates can use more cost-effective options.

Frequency of Door Openings

🗹 Warehouses with high traffic and open loading bays need fast-response systems like radiant or forced-air heaters.

Budget and Operating Costs

🗹 Factor in upfront installation costs, fuel prices, and long-term energy expenses when choosing a system.

Safety Regulations

🗹 Ensure compliance with local safety codes and ventilation requirements.

Tips to Maximize Warehouse Heating Efficiency

1. Install destratification fans

Redistribute warm air trapped at the ceiling back to ground level.

2. Seal gaps and insulate

Upgrade insulation in walls, ceilings, and around doors to minimize heat loss.

3. Implement zone heating

Focus on heating only the occupied or critical areas of the warehouse to reduce energy waste. It can be more effective to have several heated workspaces rather than trying to heat an entire large space. 

4. Upgrade to energy-efficient heaters

Consider energy-efficient heaters, such as high-efficiency unit heaters or radiant heaters.

5. Use thermostats

Use programmable or smart thermostats to regulate heating and reduce unnecessary energy use.

6. Install high-speed roll-up doors

Reduce heat loss during loading and unloading by minimizing door-open times.

7. Optimize layout and airflow

Rearrange shelving and equipment to allow better heat distribution.

8. Make use of air curtains

Air doors or air curtains prevent the heat from escaping in high-traffic doors.

Our recommended warehouse air curtain:

Mars Air Systems High Velocity (HV2) Heated Air Curtain – 144″ – 460/3/60

The High Velocity 2 Series (HV2) of Mars Air Doors features 1 horsepower motors for efficient wind loads up to 14 ft. high and offers a variety of lengths to provide an environmental barrier at that height. It can also protect your space from insects up to 12 feet.

This heated, air door is available in 460 volt,3 phase power supply, for commercial use is easy to install. It includes three 1-HP motors and features a durable metal construction with a corrosion resistant powder coated Titanium Silver finish. A variety of lengths from 48″ to 144″ is available.

Conclusion

Heating a warehouse effectively requires a tailored approach that considers the size, layout, and specific needs of the facility. By addressing insulation gaps, leveraging destratification fans, and automating temperature control, you can create a warm and comfortable working environment that supports productivity and protects assets.

At Total Home Supply, we offer a variety of heating solutions to meet the unique demands of warehouse spaces. Explore our wide range of energy-efficient warehouse heating solutions to find the perfect fit for your facility today.