Your garage can be more than just a place to store your vehicles in Derby. It can be a work space, give added storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.

Garages don’t typically have the ductwork required for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous remedy. The best approach to heat your garage is by using 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 best solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is similar to a heat pump because it shifts heat rather than creating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are often placed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split costs more, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s temperature.

Many mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your home, you might be able to have added indoor units in rooms that are difficult to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is better than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is mounted on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent solution if you reside in a northern climate and complete a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to withstand added grime.

Evaluating Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the lowest-priced style. The typical cost is different because of fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are much like a furnace, consuming fuel to create hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy decreased heating and cooling bills if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could be eligible for added rebates as a result 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 designation says, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most precise comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest option since it offers 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 installed on the ceiling, they can consume valued overhead storage room. In comparison, slim mini-split systems are often installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning can help. Call us at 203-772-8319 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, advise you on a solution and get it working rapidly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.