Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in Branchville. It can be an area to work, give added storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork required for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most economical remedy. The best method to heat your garage is by having 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 transfers heat instead of making it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split costs more, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s climate.

Most mini-splits allow you to join several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your residence, you may be able to install 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 all-encompassing heating solution is mounted on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent solution if you reside in a cold climate and perform a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to withstand extra grime.

Evaluating Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve created a handy guide to help you pick the ideal system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The typical cost differs due to fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, using fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy reduced energy expenses if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could be eligible for added rebates because of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

Garage heaters have the most options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its title indicates, a garage heater will only be providing heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most precise temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest option since it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

As garage heaters are often placed on the ceiling, they can eat up premium overhead storage room. In comparison, low-profile mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.

If you’re still deciding Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. can help. Call us at 862-345-6896 right away to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.