Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Marshfield. It can be a workshop, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most economical solution. 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 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 close to a heat pump because it shifts heat rather than making it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are often placed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives precise control over your garage’s climate.

Many mini-splits allow you to join multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your house, you could be able to use additional indoor units in areas that are difficult to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is more 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 a good solution if you are situated in a northern climate and do a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to keep working through extra grime.

Reviewing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The typical price is different because of fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, consuming fuel to make heat. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which moves heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll have decreased heating and cooling expenses if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may have access to additional rebates as a result 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 title says, a garage heater will only be offering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most exact temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best answer since 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 usually installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage space. In contrast, space-saving mini-split systems are usually put higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling House of Heating Incorporated can help. Contact us at 715-384-3163 today to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, suggest a solution and get it working rapidly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.