Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in Marshfield. It can be a work space, offer extra storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The best approach to heat your garage is by having 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 find the ideal option for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump as it transfers heat rather than creating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that lack ductwork. These electric systems are typically installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

Even though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, many have achieved ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives accurate control over your garage’s temp.

Most mini-splits allow you to join more than one indoor unit to one outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your residence, you could be able to use extra indoor units in spaces that are difficult to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is better than a space heater. This all-encompassing heating solution is mounted on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent option if you live in a chilly climate and do a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand added grime.

Comparing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve created a valuable guide to help you select the right system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical option. The estimated expense differs due to fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, using fuel to create warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which transfers heat. 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 may be entitled to additional 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 indicates, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most precise comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest solution since it provides 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 take up valuable overhead storage area. In comparison, space-saving mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of space.

If you’re still waffling House of Heating Incorporated can help. Call us at 715-384-3163 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, recommend a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.