In this Garden-Review guide we look at different Clarke Space Heaters for professional and industrial use.

Industrial and professional environments require reliable, high-output heating solutions that go beyond domestic fan-heaters.

In choosing a space heater, you’ll consider not just the purchase price but fuel/power infrastructure, ventilation or exhaust needs, mobility, maintenance and safety compliance. Clarke offers a broad range of heaters via Machine Mart in multiple technologies: diesel/para­ffin forced-air, gas-fired (propane/LPG), electric fan/radiant, and infrared spot heating. This guide helps you select, size, compare, and buy correctly for your professional application.

Before diving into models, the first and most important step is to define the heating application and constraints. For a professional or industrial buyer, the following factors should guide your choice:

Factor	Why It Matters	Key Questions
Volume & Heat Load	You must size the heater to match the cubic volume, insulation, heat loss and work patterns (intermittent, continuous)	What is the cubic volume (m³)? What are wall/roof insulation levels? How many air changes per hour?
Type of Space & Ventilation	Some heater types require combustion air and exhaust; others are electric/infrared and need no flue	Is the space open or sealed? Is there sufficient ventilation for combustion exhaust?
Fuel / Power Availability & Cost	Running cost, fuel logistics, infrastructure (gas line, diesel tank, electrical supply) are critical in industrial environments	Is mains electricity robust enough? Is propane supply accessible? Can you store bulk diesel/kerosene safely?
Safety, Emissions & Compliance	Industrial environments often have stricter safety, emissions, and insurance requirements	Are flame failure cut-offs, thermal shutoffs, and exhaust provisions adequate? Will emissions (CO, NOₓ, particulates) be acceptable?
Mobility & Deployment Flexibility	You may need to move heaters around or deploy them to temporary worksites	Is the unit portable (wheels/handles), or fixed? How easily can fuel, exhaust or ducting be routed?
Controls, Modulation & Efficiency	A heater that cycles or modulates can reduce fuel costs and overshoot temperatures less	Does the unit include thermostatic control, variable output, or staged modes?
Maintenance, Support & Spare Parts	In industrial settings, downtime costs are high, so support and ease of servicing matter	Are spare parts, filters and technical support available locally? How easy is servicing combustion chambers, fans, nozzles, etc.?

Once you have these parameters, you can map them to heater types.

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2. Heater Type Comparisons & Clarke Options (via Machine Mart)

Here’s how the principal heater types compare, and which Clarke models (or similar) are offered via Machine Mart. (Note: Machine Mart’s stock changes, so always check for current availability and specifications.)

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2.1 Diesel / Paraffin (Forced‐Air) Heaters

These are indirect or direct combustion heaters that draw in air, burn fuel (diesel or kerosene), and blow the heated air into the space. They are often rugged, mobile, and high output.

Advantages:

• High heat output per unit cost of fuel.
• Can heat large volumes relatively quickly.
• Portable units with wheels and handles exist.
• Diesel/kerosene is often easier to store in industrial sites.

Disadvantages / Considerations:

• Requires ventilation/combustion-air intake; in enclosed spaces CO buildup is a hazard.
• Some units require exhaust flues or ducting for combustion byproducts.
• Periodic maintenance of burner, nozzles, pump, filters is required.
• Noise and odor may be issues during start-up or in high output modes.

Clarke diesel/paraffin models (via Machine Mart) include:

Note: Clarke also offers dual‐voltage (110/230 V) versions of certain models (e.g. XR60DV, XR160DV) to support more flexible power deployment.

Selection Tips (Diesel Type):

• Choose a model whose heat output is at least 1.2–1.5× your calculated thermal load to allow for losses and rapid recovery.
• Prefer models with variable output or thermostatic control to avoid constant full-power operation.
• Check fuel tank capacities and run times—larger tanks (50 L+) are beneficial for long shift sites, but add weight.
• Confirm fan airflow (m³/hr) so that heat is distributed adequately across the space.
• Inspect the combustion chamber design (stainless steel, corrosion resistance), flame failure protection, and safety cutoffs.
• Clarify which models require exhaust venting or ducting, or whether they operate “open flue” style.

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2.2 Gas-Fired (Propane / LPG) Space Heaters

These heaters burn propane or LPG and blow heated air, used for workshops, sheds, site huts, production bays, etc.

Advantages:

• Clean burning (if well designed) and relatively controlled emissions.
• Propane/LPG can yield good power density.
• Many models are compact and portable.

Considerations / Limitations:

• Requires propane (LPG) cylinders or connection to LPG supply lines.
• Must comply with regulations for gas use and ventilation.
• Fuel cost per kWh sometimes higher than diesel, depending on supply.
• Some units require pilot or ignition, pressure regulation, safety features.

Clarke gas fired models via Machine Mart:

Selection Tips (Gas Type):

• Match the gas pressure (e.g. 300 mBar) and ensure regulators and hoses are appropriate. Clarke Devil 700 is specified at 300 mBar.
• Confirm gas consumption (kg/h) and compute operational cost relative to diesel or electric.
• Evaluate the variation range (e.g. 8.8–14.6 kW) so you can run at partial loads efficiently.
• Ensure safety cutoffs for flame failure, overheating, and power loss.
• Consider whether you need dual-voltage or electric ignition support.
• Confirm that the heater includes or is compatible with necessary hoses, regulators, and mounting or support gear.

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2.3 Quartz / Halogen / Radiant Electric Heaters

These heaters produce heat via electric infrared/quartz elements. They may be used to provide localized “spot heating” without heating all the ambient air.

Advantages:

• Instant heat; no combustion, no exhaust or emissions.
• Good for targeted heating (e.g. workstations, entry points, doors) within larger volumes.
• Simple electrical systems; minimal maintenance.
• Quiet operation compared to forced-air burners.

Considerations / Limitations:

• Electric running cost can be high, especially in large or poorly insulated spaces.
• Cannot replace a high-output forced air heater for bulk heating in many industrial settings.
• Radiant heaters warm surfaces and people, but may not raise ambient air temperature strongly.

I did not find many concrete Clarke quartz/halogen heater models listed on Machine Mart under the Clarke brand currently. However, the “Quartz Halogen Heaters” category exists on their heating/ventilation menu. Machine Mart

If Clarke offers models in that domain, you’d want to check:

• Radiant coverage angle / beam spread (degrees)
• Element wattage and operational voltage
• Mounting method (wall, ceiling, portable stand)
• IP / ingress protection for industrial / dusty environments

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2.4 Industrial Electric Fan / Resistive Heaters

These are purely electric units (resistive heating + fan) for general space heating, often used when combustion isn’t possible or desired.

Advantages:

• No combustion, exhaust, or emissions—much simpler to deploy in tight industrial or enclosed spaces.
• Quiet, stable, and low-maintenance.
• Good for smaller volumes, support heating, or tempering.

Considerations / Limitations:

• Electric cost (per kW) is usually higher than fuel-based heating for large loads.
• Electrical supply infrastructure must be robust (multi-kW loads, three-phase options).
• Limited in very large volume spaces unless power supply is generous.

Clarke models in Machine Mart’s stock include:

Selection Tips (Electric Type):

• Ensure your facility’s electrical infrastructure can support the unit (voltage, phase, breaker rating, cables).
• For continuous operation, check whether the heater supports thermostatic control or variable output to avoid cycling.
• Check airflow (m³/hr) so that warmed air reaches needed areas.
• Durability: look for rugged steel casing, dust filtration, fan blade accessibility, IP protection in harsh workshops.

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3. Sizing & Selection Workflow (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a suggested workflow for a professional buyer:

1. Calculate Heat Load / Demand; Workshop Heat Load Formula (Simple)
   • Watts needed ≈ Volume (m³) × 30–50 W/m³
   • Poor insulation: 50–70 W/m³
   • Average workshop: 40–50 W/m³
   • Well insulated: 25–30 W/m³
2. Once you know the required kW, find a Clarke unit that meets or exceeds the rating.
3. Decide on Heater Type Based on Constraints
   Use the criteria in Section 1 to choose between diesel, gas, electric, or radiant for your application.
4. Select Candidate Sizes / Models
   From your required kW, map to Clarke models above. For example, if your load is ~25 kW, a Clarke XR80 (20.5 kW) might suffice (if margin and ambient conditions allow), or you might need the XR110 or XR160. For gas, the Devil 900 (24.9 kW) might match a similar band.
5. Check Ancillaries & Infrastructure
   • Fuel supply (diesel tank, LPG cylinder, electrical capacity)
   • Ventilation / exhaust or ducting needs
   • Hose, regulator, filters, nozzles, ducting, exhaust piping
   • Safety interlocks, flame sensors, thermal cut-outs
6. Evaluate Controls & Efficiency Features
   Prefer models that support thermostatic cycling or modulating output. These reduce fuel wastage. Also, assess how well the heater distributes heat (fan airflow, ducting compatibility).
7. Check Serviceability & Spare Parts
   Confirm that spare nozzles, filters, ignition electrodes, fans, and other components are available, preferably via Machine Mart or Clarke service. Also ensure accessibility for cleaning.
8. Field Testing & Commissioning
   After installation, verify performance under load, measure temperature gradients, check for CO/NOₓ levels (for combustion units), test safety cutoffs, and optimize placement for even distribution.

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4. Comparative Use Cases & Recommendations

To help your readers decide, here are typical scenarios and matching Clarke heater types:

Scenario	Best Heater Type	Possible Clarke Models	Reasoning
Large workshop / warehouse, moderate insulation, main heating source	Diesel / Paraffin forced-air	XR160, XR210, XR80	High outputs, good fuel economy, portable for zones
Medium workshop / garage with access to LPG	Gas-fired propane forced-air	Devil 900, Devil 1600	Clean, compact, good power, acceptable emission levels
Indoor enclosed space where combustion is not accepted (e.g. food prep, assembly area)	Electric fan heater / Infrared	Devil 5000PTC, 2850, forthcoming quartz/halogen units	No exhaust, safer environment
Spot heating, doorways, localized zones in large halls	Quartz / Halogen / Radiant (if available)	Clarke’s quartz/halogen models (if stocked)	Efficient for focused heating without wasting full-space energy
Temporary site, mixed-power availability (110/230 V)	Dual-voltage diesel / gas	Clarke XR60DV, XR160DV, or dual-voltage gas models	Flexibility to move between 110 V supply and 230 V
Supplemental heating in winter / intermittent use	Smaller electric or gas units	Devil 700, Little Devil, 2000PTC	Lower capital cost, sufficient for occasional needs

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5. Safety, Compliance & Best Practices

Any industrial purchasing guide should emphasize safety and regulation compliance.

• Combustion Safety: Use flame-failure cutoffs, thermal shutoffs, and proper ventilation. Ensure carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in spaces served by combustion heaters.
• Exhaust Routing: If heaters require exhaust or flue connection, avoid routing through occupied areas. Use insulated ducting and backdraft dampers.
• Fuel Storage & Handling: Diesel, kerosene, and LPG must be stored in approved containers, with bunding, spill controls, and segregation from ignition sources.
• Electrical Safety: Electric heaters must have proper overcurrent protection, earth bonding, and wiring sized for expected load.
• Temperature Monitoring & Controls: Use thermostats, programmable timers, or building management integration to avoid overheating or inefficient cycling.
• Maintenance Regime: Schedule regular cleaning, nozzle and filter replacement, fan inspection, and ignition checks.
• Noise & Vibration: Ensure heaters are mounted or placed so noise or vibration does not interfere with operations or personnel.
• Insulation & Heat Retention: Even the best heater will struggle in a poorly insulated building. Insulate walls, roof, draft-proof doors, and reduce unnecessary air leaks to enhance performance.
• Insurance & Standards: Confirm compliance with local building codes, fire safety regulations, insurance requirements, and relevant UK/European standards (e.g. CE marking, gas safety, etc.).

Editor’s Picks (2025)

Best Overall: Clarke XR160 Diesel/Paraffin Heater

A powerful, high-performance heater designed for industrial applications with a huge 13-hour runtime.

Best Value LPG Heater: Clarke Devil 900

Great balance of heat output, efficiency, and portability.

Best Electric Workshop Heater: Clarke Devil 5000 PTC

Safe, clean heat—ideal for enclosed or sensitive indoor environments.

Best Budget Option: Little Devil 2

Compact, reliable, and surprisingly effective for its size.

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Clarke space heaters offer reliable, robust heating for workshops, garages, and industrial environments. Whether you need the clean efficiency of electric heat or the raw output of diesel and LPG models, Clarke provides a solution for every scale and scenario.

If you need help selecting the right model for your workspace, simply ask and we’ll guide you through it.

Do you have questions on Space Heaters? Let our expert answer your FAQ’s, comment below ad we will get back to you