Container homes have been popping up across Australia in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re compact, eco-conscious, and full of character. Whether you’re building a tiny home in the bush or setting up a weekend getaway near the coast, these steel-framed dwellings are a clever solution for modern living.

But for all their perks, container homes come with their own quirks too—especially when winter rolls in. Unlike traditional brick homes, steel containers aren’t naturally great at holding in heat. That means you’ll need a heating setup that suits the space and the Aussie climate.

Here’s a look at the heating options worth considering if you’re living in or planning a container home, whether you’re off-grid or hooked up to the mains.

1. Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners: All-Rounders for Comfort

If you're after something that handles both hot and cold days, a reverse cycle split system is a solid choice. Mr Emergency often recommends these units for container homes, as they’re particularly effective in smaller spaces where one indoor unit can usually handle the entire living area.

Why go for it?

• Heats and cools — one system for all seasons
  
  
• Energy efficient when used correctly
  
  
• Doesn’t take up floor space
  
  

Things to keep in mind: You’ll need access to mains power or a good solar system with battery storage. And make sure your container is properly insulated, otherwise the warm air will vanish before you can say “cold snap”.

Best suited for: Suburbs and towns with milder winters, like parts of Sydney, Brisbane, or Perth.

2. Wood Heaters: Classic and Off-Grid Friendly

There’s something unbeatable about a wood fire on a frosty night. For those living off-grid or just wanting that crackling charm, a wood-burning stove or combustion heater can do the job beautifully.

Why they work well:

• No electricity needed — just wood and matches
  
  
• Radiant heat warms quickly
  
  
• Adds rustic charm to your home
  
  

A few caveats:

• Needs regular cleaning and chimney maintenance
  
  
• Not allowed in some high-risk bushfire zones
  
  
• You’ll need space for firewood storage
  
  

Best for: Rural properties, especially in colder spots like Ballarat, the Southern Highlands or Tassie.

3. Electric Panel Heaters: Simple and Silent

Panel heaters are slim, quiet, and easy to install — ideal for those who prefer a no-fuss option. They’re especially handy in bedrooms or small living areas where a quick burst of warmth is all that’s needed.

Why you might choose one:

• Easy wall mounting — doesn’t crowd your space
  
  
• Relatively inexpensive to buy
  
  
• Quiet (no fan noise)
  
  

Not the most powerful: They’re not great for large open areas or freezing cold climates. And if you’re on-grid, keep an eye on your power bill — they’re not the cheapest to run over long periods.

Best suited for: Warmer states like Queensland or northern NSW where winters are short and mild.

4. LPG Gas Heaters: Fast and Portable Heat

LPG heaters are often used in off-grid setups, especially where electricity is limited or unreliable. Portable models are easy to move around and heat a space quickly.

Why Aussies go for them:

• Quick to warm up a room
  
  
• Doesn’t rely on mains electricity
  
  
• Great for off-grid use with bottled gas
  
  

Watch for:

• Ventilation is a must — gas heaters can’t be used in closed spaces without proper airflow
  
  
• Not allowed indoors in some states without flues
  
  
• You’ll need to regularly top up your LPG bottles
  
  

Best for: Remote or rural homes where gas is easier to access than electricity.

5. Hydronic Heating: Quiet Luxury for Year-Round Warmth

Hydronic systems are less common in tiny or container homes, but they’re growing in popularity among those building full-time residences with long-term comfort in mind. These systems heat water and circulate it through pipes in the walls or floors.

What’s good about them?

• Silent and consistent warmth
  
  
• Doesn’t dry out the air like other systems
  
  
• Efficient when paired with solar or heat pumps
  
  

Downside? They’re expensive to install and best suited for container homes that are being permanently placed and heavily customised. Not ideal for short-term use or rentals.

Best for: Full-time homes in cooler climates like Canberra, the Adelaide Hills, or highland regions.

6. Infrared Heaters: Targeted Warmth

Infrared panels are gaining traction in small-space living. Rather than heating the air, they warm objects and people directly — sort of like standing in the sun.

What’s the appeal?

• Instant heat — no waiting
  
  
• Doesn’t rely on air circulation (good for allergy sufferers)
  
  
• Great for spot-heating
  
  

The catch: Infrared heating works best in well-insulated homes. It’s not ideal for draughty areas or large, open rooms.

Best for: Small rooms, art studios, or focused heating near a desk or couch.

7. Underfloor Heating: Toasty Toes in Winter

If you’re already planning a new container build and want the ultimate in winter comfort, underfloor heating is worth thinking about — especially in tiled areas like bathrooms.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Hidden system — no bulky heaters on the walls
  
  
• Consistent warmth underfoot
  
  
• Works well in small rooms
  
  

Things to know:

• Only makes sense if you install it during the build
  
  
• Energy-hungry if not powered by solar
  
  
• Slow to warm up compared to other options
  
  

Best suited for: Bathroom or kitchen zones in permanent builds.

Don’t Forget Insulation

It can’t be said enough: insulation makes or breaks your heating system. A container home without good insulation is like trying to warm a steel fridge. In fact, households typically save around 15% on heating and cooling bills when walls are insulated, according to energy efficiency experts. 

Insulated panels, double-glazed windows, thermal curtains, and draft-proofing all help your chosen heating system do its job better, for longer.

Choosing the Right Heat for Your Unique Setup

Container homes offer a lot of flexibility, but when it comes to heating, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Your best option depends on:

• Your location and how cold it gets
  
  
• Your energy setup (on-grid, off-grid, solar-powered)
  
  
• How often you’re living in the space (weekend getaway or full-time home)
  
  
• What you can fit in your budget — both now and down the track
  
  

Some homeowners combine two systems — for instance, a split system paired with a wood burner or underfloor heating in the bathroom alongside a panel heater in the bedroom. The key is to tailor it to your lifestyle and plan for the long haul.

Container homes may be compact, but with the right heating, they can be just as cosy and welcoming as any traditional house. Whether you're waking up to a frosty morning in Victoria or chasing off the evening chill in the Hinterland, there's a heating solution that can make your space feel like home.