Your garage can be more than just a place to park your vehicles in Sandpoint. It can be a work space, provide added 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 get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous remedy. The wisest way to heat your garage is by getting a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s discuss the difference between the two to help you discover the ideal solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is much like a heat pump since it moves heat instead of making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms without ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s temperature.
Many mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your house, you may be able to install added indoor units in spaces 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 installed on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great option if you live in a northern climate and perform a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to last through extra grime.
Comparing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a useful guide to help you pick the ideal system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The estimated expense 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, needing fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll enjoy even lower heating and cooling costs if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may be eligible for added rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the most options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its name indicates, a garage heater is restricted to just offering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are after the most exact comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest solution because it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
As garage heaters are often installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage room. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are often installed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of real estate.
If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists Age Heating & Cooling can help. Contact us at 208-578-4258 right away to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, recommend a solution and get it put in fast, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much faster.