Your garage can be more than just a place to park your vehicles in Marshalltown. It can be an area to work, offer extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The smartest way to heat your garage is by adding 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 much like a heat pump since it shifts heat as opposed to making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are usually installed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, many have achieved ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers precise control over your garage’s temperature.
Most mini-splits allow you to connect multiple indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your house, you may be able to use extra indoor units in areas that are tricky to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent option if you live in a chilly climate and complete a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to withstand extra grime.
Evaluating Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a valuable guide to help you select the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The average price varies based on fuel type, but they’re often about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, needing fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which transfers hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll have decreased utility costs if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could have access to added rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel types—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 are seeking the most precise comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest answer as it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Since garage heaters are often placed on the ceiling, they can take up valued overhead storage area. In contrast, slim mini-split systems are often placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals B & G HVAC can help. Call us at 641-316-3360 right away to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, suggest a solution and get it installed rapidly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.