Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Huntingburg. It can be an area to work, provide additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most economical solution. The best way 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 choose the right style for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump as it moves heat as opposed to creating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that lack 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 costs more, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and offer zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s climate.

Many mini-splits allow you to connect more than one indoor unit to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your residence, you might be able to use extra indoor units in spaces that are hard to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-encompassing heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great choice if you are situated in a cold climate and do a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to withstand additional grime.

Evaluating Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the lowest-priced option. The average price differs due to fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are much like a furnace, consuming fuel to make warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which transfers warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy reduced utility expenses if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may be entitled to 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 title indicates, a garage heater will only be providing heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are looking for the most accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the best answer as it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

As garage heaters are often placed on the ceiling, they can consume premium overhead storage area. In comparison, low-profile mini-split systems are typically placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of real estate.

If you’re still waffling Dearing's Service & Solutions can help. Reach us at 812-200-5844 today to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, recommend a solution and get it working fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.