Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in West Columbia. It can be a work space, provide 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 required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous solution. The smartest way 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 choose the best solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump because it transfers heat instead of generating 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 joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split costs more, most have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s temperature.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to link several 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 rooms 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 installed 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 good option if you live in a northern climate and complete a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand extra grime.
Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a valuable guide to help you select the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly solution. The average expense differs due to fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, needing 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 even lower utility bills if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might be eligible for additional rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the most options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its title indicates, a garage heater is restricted to just providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are seeking the most precise temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best solution since it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Due to the fact garage heaters are typically placed on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage room. In contrast, space-saving mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of real estate.
If you’re still debating between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. can help. Call us at 803-265-4208 right away to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed quickly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much faster.