Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Circleville. It can be a workshop, give added storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.

Garages don’t typically have the ductwork necessary for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous solution. The smartest approach to heat your garage is by getting a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

Let’s review the difference between the two to help you choose the best option for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it transfers heat instead of creating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Even though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and offer zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s climate.

Many mini-splits allow you to link multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your house, you might be able to use added indoor units in rooms that are tricky 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 higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent solution if you reside in a cold climate and perform a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to last through additional grime.

Comparing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve made a useful guide to help you choose the ideal system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The average cost differs based on 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 create hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll get even lower utility costs if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could have access to additional rebates as a result 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 designation says, a garage heater will only be providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are seeking the most precise comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest answer as it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

Because garage heaters are typically installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage space. In contrast, low-profile mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.

If you’re still deciding Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling can help. Contact us at 740-474-5940 right away to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, advise you on a solution and get it working fast, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much faster.