Your garage can be more than just an area to park your vehicles in Moline. 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 comfy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for common heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective option. The smartest approach 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 much like a heat pump since it transfers heat as opposed to creating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are typically placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which gives precise control over your garage’s temp.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to link multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your residence, you could be able to have added indoor units in areas that are tricky to heat and cool.
What Is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is better than a space heater. This all-encompassing 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 an excellent choice if you live in a northern climate and do a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to last through extra grime.
Evaluating Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve made a valuable guide to help you choose the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly solution. The average expense 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, needing fuel to make heat. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll have reduced energy bills if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might be eligible for additional 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 providing heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you want the most accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest answer because it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Due to the fact garage heaters are typically placed on the ceiling, they can consume premium overhead storage space. In contrast, space-saving 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 deciding Freed Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Call us at 309-323-9584 right away to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it working fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.