Your garage can be more than just a space to put your vehicles in New Castle. It can be a workshop, provide additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t often have the ductwork needed for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The best method to heat your garage is by adding a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s discuss the difference between the two to help you discover the ideal style for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is much like a heat pump since it transfers heat rather than creating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that lack ductwork. These electric systems are typically placed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, most have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and offer zoned comfort, which gives precise control over your garage’s climate.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to link multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your home, you may 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 mounted on the ceiling or the high 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 cold climate and do a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to withstand added grime.
Reviewing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you select the ideal system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the lowest-priced option. The average cost varies based on fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are much like a furnace, needing fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which transfers warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll get even lower energy costs if you get an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may be eligible for added rebates as a result 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 name says, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are looking for the most precise comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best 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 installed on the ceiling, they can consume premium overhead storage room. In contrast, space-saving mini-split systems are typically placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of space.
If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists Central Heating & Plumbing can help. Reach us at 724-401-1843 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, advise you on a solution and get it working quickly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.