Your garage can be more than just an area to park your vehicles in West Jefferson. It can be a work space, provide additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.
Garages don’t often have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most economical 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 choose the ideal option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump because it shifts heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are often placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, many have earned ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and provide zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s climate.
Many mini-splits allow you to connect several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your residence, you might be able to install added indoor units in spaces that are hard to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is better than a space heater. This all-encompassing heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great option if you are situated in a northern climate and perform a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to withstand added grime.
Evaluating Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a valuable guide to help you select the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical option. The average expense is different based on fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, using fuel to make warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which moves warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll have decreased energy expenses if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might be entitled to added rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its designation indicates, a garage heater is restricted to just providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you want the most exact temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best solution as it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Due to the fact garage heaters are typically installed on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage area. In contrast, space-saving mini-split systems are usually placed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of room.
If you’re still debating between a garage heater and mini-split, the pros West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. can help. Reach us at 614-879-9091 today to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it installed quickly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much faster.