Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Dresden. It can be a work space, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective option. The wisest approach 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 ideal solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is much like a heat pump because it shifts heat instead of generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms without ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split costs more, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and offer zoned comfort, which provides exact control over your garage’s temp.

The majority of mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your home, you could be able to install additional indoor units in rooms that are hard to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent option if you are situated in a northern climate and perform a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to keep working through additional grime.

Comparing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical style. The typical cost is different due to fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, using fuel to make heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy reduced heating and cooling costs if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may be entitled to added rebates due to that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel kinds—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its name indicates, a garage heater is restricted to just providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are seeking the most accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest answer since it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

Due to the fact garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage area. In comparison, slim mini-split systems are usually placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.

If you’re still deciding McFadden Heating & Cooling can help. Reach us at 1-866-781-0111 right away to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in rapidly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.