Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Jefferson City. It can be a work space, give extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfy temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous option. The smartest method to heat your garage is by installing 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 solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump as it shifts heat as opposed to making it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are usually installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split is more expensive, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers accurate control over your garage’s temp.
Many mini-splits allow you to connect multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your residence, you may be able to install added indoor units in areas that are difficult to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater isn’t 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 good option if you reside in a northern climate and perform a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to last through extra grime.
Reviewing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve made a valuable guide to help you select the ideal system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly solution. The typical cost differs 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 hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which moves hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy even lower heating and cooling bills if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may be entitled to added 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 name indicates, a garage heater only provides delivering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you want the most accurate comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest answer because it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Since garage heaters are typically installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage room. In comparison, slim mini-split systems are typically put higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.
If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Stieferman Heating Company Inc can help. Call us at 573-635-3547 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it put in fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.