Your garage can be more than just an area to park your vehicles in Franklin Lakes. It can be a workshop, provide extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, 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 economical solution. The wisest approach to heat your garage is by having 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 close to a heat pump because it transfers heat rather than making it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split is more expensive, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives exact control over your garage’s temp.
Many mini-splits allow you to join multiple indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your residence, you may be able to install added indoor units in areas that are difficult to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-encompassing heating solution is mounted on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good choice if you live in a chilly climate and perform a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to stand up to added grime.
Reviewing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a handy guide to help you pick the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical style. The estimated expense differs 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, using fuel to generate hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get decreased energy expenses if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may have access to added 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 name suggests, 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 accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest option because it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can consume valued overhead storage area. On the other hand, slim mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of real estate.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists Total Comfort can help. Reach us at 201-268-5663 now to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.