Your garage can be more than just a space to put your vehicles in Newark. It can be an area to work, give added storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork required for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous option. The best method to heat your garage is by getting 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 much like a heat pump since it moves heat instead of creating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms without ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and offer zoned comfort, which offers precise control over your garage’s climate.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to connect multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your residence, you may 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 more than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is placed 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 choice if you reside in a northern climate and do a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand additional grime.
Comparing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a useful guide to help you choose the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The estimated price varies because of fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, consuming fuel to generate warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which moves heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy even lower utility expenses if you get an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may be entitled to added rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the most options for fuel types—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its title says, a garage heater only provides providing heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are seeking the most exact temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest option since it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
As garage heaters are typically placed on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage space. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of real estate.
If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Luikart Heating & Cooling can help. Contact us at 740-200-5591 right away to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it put in rapidly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.