Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Sussex County. It can be an area to work, give extra storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most economical remedy. The wisest 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 discover the ideal style for your needs.
What Are Mini-Split Systems?
A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it transfers heat instead of generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that lack ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split is more expensive, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which provides exact control over your garage’s temp.
Many mini-splits allow you to link multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your home, you might be able to have added indoor units in areas that are tricky to heat and cool.
What Is the Difference Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters?
A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-encompassing heating solution is placed 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 great solution if you live in a chilly climate and do a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to stand up to added grime.
Reviewing Key Features of Mini Split Systems and Garage Heaters
We’ve made a valuable guide to help you select the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The estimated price varies based on fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are much like a furnace, using fuel to generate warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy reduced energy bills if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could be eligible for extra rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its name indicates, a garage heater will only be providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are after the most accurate temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best solution 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 usually mounted on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage space. In comparison, slim mini-split systems are usually placed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.
If you’re still deciding Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. can help. Contact us at 973-270-9244 today to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it working quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much faster.