Your garage can be more than just a place to put your vehicles in East Bernard. It can be an area to work, give additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for common heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective option. The smartest way to heat your garage is by adding a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s go over the difference between the two to help you find the right style for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump since it transfers heat as opposed to creating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that lack ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and offer zoned comfort, which gives accurate control over your garage’s temp.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to join several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your home, 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 all-in-one heating solution is installed 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 option if you live in a chilly climate and do a lot of dusty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to stand up to added grime.
Evaluating Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a useful guide to help you choose the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly solution. The average price is different due to fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, needing fuel to create warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which moves hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll enjoy even lower energy expenses if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might be eligible for extra rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the widest options for fuel kinds—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its title says, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are after the most accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest solution because it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Since garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage space. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of real estate.
If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the pros E.B. Air, LLC can help. Reach us at 979-335-4262 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.