Your garage can be more than just a place to put your vehicles in Logan. It can be an area to work, offer added storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork necessary for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective solution. The wisest way to heat your garage is by using a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s review the difference between the two to help you choose the right solution 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 an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that lack ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split costs more, a lot have achieved ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and offer zoned comfort, which gives precise control over your garage’s climate.
Most mini-splits allow you to connect more than one indoor unit to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your home, you might be able to use additional indoor units in rooms 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 consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great solution if you reside in a northern climate and do a lot of dusty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to last through additional grime.
Comparing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you select the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the lowest-priced solution. The typical expense varies based on fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, needing fuel to make warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll get even lower energy bills if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could be eligible for extra rebates as a result 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 title 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 temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest solution as 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 usually mounted on the ceiling, they can take up premium overhead storage room. On the other hand, slim mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of real estate.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Western Mechanical, Inc. can help. Call us at 435-753-5515 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, recommend a solution and get it working quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.