A heated hangar transforms aircraft ownership from a cold-weather chore into year-round convenience. Beyond personal comfort, maintaining appropriate temperatures protects your aircraft, simplifies maintenance, and may even reduce operating costs in unexpected ways.
Aircraft Protection Benefits
Engine and Oil System
Cold-soaked engines suffer increased wear:
- Oil viscosity increases dramatically at low temperatures
- First few minutes of operation cause majority of engine wear
- Preheating from ambient 50°F+ significantly reduces stress
- Consistent temperatures prevent condensation in crankcase
Avionics and Electronics
Temperature cycling stresses electronic components:
- Solder joints expand and contract with temperature changes
- Display screens perform better at moderate temperatures
- Battery capacity reduces significantly in cold conditions
Airframe and Seals
Rubber and composite materials benefit from stable temperatures:
- Door and window seals remain pliable
- Fuel tank bladders maintain flexibility
- Composite structures avoid freeze-thaw stress
Operational Advantages
Ready-to-Fly Convenience
Skip the preheating routine:
- No waiting for engine heaters or preheaters
- Immediate departure when weather permits
- Oil already at appropriate viscosity for startup
Maintenance Comfort
Work in reasonable conditions:
- Perform inspections without frozen fingers
- Complete annual maintenance in winter months
- Parts and fluids at workable temperatures
Extended Season
Fly more throughout the year:
- Aircraft ready despite weather forecasts
- No delay for ice/frost removal from hangar storage
- Motivation to fly when aircraft is comfortable to access
Heating Options
Radiant Heaters
- Heat objects directly rather than air
- Efficient for high-ceiling spaces
- Quick warm-up of working areas
- Gas or electric options available
Forced Air Systems
- Heat entire hangar space evenly
- Can integrate with existing HVAC
- Effective for well-insulated hangars
- Higher operating costs for large spaces
In-Floor Radiant
- Most comfortable heat distribution
- Keeps floors warm and dry
- Expensive to install, economical to operate
- Best installed during construction
Temperature Targets
Minimum Recommendations
- 40-45°F: Prevents freezing, basic protection
- 50-55°F: Comfortable for brief work, good aircraft protection
- 60-65°F: Extended work comfort, optimal for maintenance
Avoiding Extremes
Don’t overheat—excessive warmth wastes energy and may cause condensation issues when aircraft leaves the hangar.
Cost Considerations
Installation Costs
- Basic unit heaters: $2,000-5,000 installed
- Radiant systems: $5,000-15,000
- In-floor radiant: $15,000-40,000+ (new construction)
Operating Costs
Costs depend on:
- Hangar insulation quality
- Local energy prices (gas vs. electric)
- Target temperature setting
- Climate severity
Insurance Benefits
Some insurers offer discounts for heated hangar storage, partially offsetting operating costs.
Insulation Importance
Heating an uninsulated hangar wastes money:
- Insulate walls and ceiling if possible
- Weather-strip doors and windows
- Consider hangar curtains for large door openings
A heated hangar represents an investment in aircraft protection, operational convenience, and personal comfort that many owners consider essential to their aviation enjoyment.
