Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in Central Point. It can be a work space, offer added storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most economical remedy. 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 best solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump since it moves heat rather than creating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that lack ductwork. These electric systems are usually installed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have received ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers accurate control over your garage’s temp.
Many mini-splits allow you to join multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your home, you could 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 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 an excellent choice if you reside in a northern climate and perform a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to last through extra grime.
Evaluating Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a useful guide to help you select the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical solution. The average price differs based on fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, consuming fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which moves hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get decreased utility expenses if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might be eligible for extra rebates due to 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 says, 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 temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option because it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are often mounted on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage area. On the other hand, slim mini-split systems are typically placed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the pros Titan Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Reach us at 541-286-6617 today to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it working rapidly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.