Your garage can be more than just a place to park your vehicles in Ballwin and St. Charles. It can be an area to work, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t often have the ductwork necessary for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most economical option. The best method 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 best option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is much like a heat pump because it moves heat instead of creating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which gives accurate control over your garage’s climate.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to link more than one indoor unit to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your residence, you may be able to use additional indoor units in areas that are hard to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is more than a space heater. This comprehensive 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 a great choice if you live in a cold climate and complete a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to last through added grime.
Comparing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you pick the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. 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, using fuel to make warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which transfers hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll enjoy reduced heating and cooling bills if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may have access to added rebates due to 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 name suggests, a garage heater only provides delivering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are looking for the most accurate comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best answer as it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are typically placed on the ceiling, they can consume premium overhead storage room. In contrast, low-profile mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of space.
If you’re still debating between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists Air Alliance Team can help. Contact us at 636-206-4250 right away to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.