Your garage can be more than just a place to park your vehicles in Plover. It can be a workshop, provide added storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork required for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous remedy. The wisest approach to heat your garage is by using a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

Let’s discuss the difference between the two to help you find the best option for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it moves heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have received ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s climate.

Most mini-splits allow you to connect several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your house, you may be able to use added indoor units in spaces that are hard to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater isn’t a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good option if you live in a northern climate and do a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to stand up to extra grime.

Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

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

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, needing fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get even lower energy costs if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might have access to extra rebates due to 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 indicates, a garage heater is limited to only providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are seeking the most precise temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest option because it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

As garage heaters are typically placed on the ceiling, they can eat up premium overhead storage space. On the other hand, slim mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of space.

If you’re still waffling Point Heating & Cooling can help. Reach us at 715-504-0533 today to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, suggest a solution and get it working rapidly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.