Your garage can be more than just an area to park your vehicles in Thedford. It can be an area to work, offer extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork needed for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most economical solution. The smartest way 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 discover the ideal solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it transfers heat rather than generating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that lack ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

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

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

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is better than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great option if you reside in a cold climate and complete a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand extra grime.

Evaluating Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve assembled a handy guide to help you select the best system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the lowest-priced solution. The typical price differs based on fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are much like a furnace, using fuel to create hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy even lower energy bills if you choose an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could be entitled to additional rebates because of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its title says, a garage heater is restricted to just providing heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are looking for the most exact comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option because it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

Because garage heaters are typically placed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage room. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Contact us at 519-296-4437 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it installed rapidly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.