Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Newton. It can be a workshop, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork required for regular 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 using 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 choose the ideal solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it shifts heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split costs more, most have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives precise control over your garage’s temperature.
Most mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your residence, you could be able to install additional 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 comprehensive heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good choice if you are situated in a cold climate and perform a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to stand up to added grime.
Evaluating Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve made a useful guide to help you choose the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The typical cost varies based on fuel type, but they’re often about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, using fuel to generate hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which moves heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy reduced heating and cooling costs if you choose 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 name suggests, a garage heater is limited to only offering heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are seeking the most exact temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest answer because it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
As garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can take up valued overhead storage room. In comparison, space-saving mini-split systems are typically placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of space.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Brookwood Inc can help. Reach us at 641-316-9803 right away to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in rapidly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much faster.