Your garage can be more than just a space to park your vehicles in Rockford. It can be a workshop, provide additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t often have the ductwork needed for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The wisest method to heat your garage is by installing 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 discover the right solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump since it moves heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that lack ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have achieved ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which offers precise control over your garage’s temp.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to connect several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your home, you might be able to install extra indoor units in areas 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 installed on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good option if you are situated in a cold climate and do a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand additional grime.
Comparing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve made a useful guide to help you pick the ideal system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical solution. The estimated cost 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 hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which moves heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll have decreased utility expenses if you get an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might be eligible for added rebates due to 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 suggests, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are seeking the most accurate temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest solution because it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are typically placed on the ceiling, they can take up valued overhead storage area. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are often put 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 pros Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling, Inc can help. Reach us at (815)914-6197 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it working rapidly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.