Your garage can be more than just a space to park your vehicles in Eastland. It can be an area to work, give added storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous option. The best approach to heat your garage is by having a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s go through the difference between the two to help you find the best style for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is close to a heat pump as it moves heat instead of generating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split costs more, many have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers accurate control over your garage’s temperature.
Most mini-splits allow you to join several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your home, you could be able to have added indoor units in areas that are hard to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good option if you reside in a northern climate and do a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to last through added grime.
Comparing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a useful guide to help you select the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The average cost differs because of fuel type, but they’re often about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, consuming fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which moves hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll get decreased utility bills if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may be entitled to added rebates due to that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the widest options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its title indicates, a garage heater is limited to only delivering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you want the most precise temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option because it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are typically mounted on the ceiling, they can take up premium overhead storage space. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are usually put higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals J & J Air Conditioning can help. Reach us at 254-355-3833 today to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.