Your garage can be more than just an area to park your vehicles in Justin. It can be a workshop, provide added storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous solution. The best approach to heat your garage is by installing 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 discover the best style for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is close to a heat pump as it shifts heat rather than making it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are typically placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and offer zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s climate.
Many mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your house, you might be able to use added indoor units in areas that are tricky to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater isn’t a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good option if you live in a chilly climate and perform a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to last through added grime.
Evaluating Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you pick the ideal system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical solution. The typical price varies because of fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, consuming fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which moves heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll get even lower heating and cooling expenses if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may have access to additional rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the widest options for fuel types—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its designation says, a garage heater is limited to only delivering heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are looking for the most precise temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest option because it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are often mounted on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage area. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are often installed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of room.
If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the pros Pepper AC & Htg Inc can help. Reach us at 940-202-1184 now to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, suggest a solution and get it installed fast, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.