Your garage can be more than just a place to put your vehicles in Manassas. It can be a work space, offer extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork necessary for common heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective option. The best method to heat your garage is by getting 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 ideal style for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump as it shifts heat instead of making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are usually put on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split is more expensive, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and offer zoned comfort, which offers accurate control over your garage’s climate.
Most mini-splits allow you to connect multiple indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your house, you might be able to use additional indoor units in spaces that are hard to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is better than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is installed 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 choice if you are situated in a chilly climate and do a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to stand up to extra grime.
Comparing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a handy guide to help you select the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical option. The average price is different because of 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 create warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which transfers hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get reduced heating and cooling expenses 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 most options for fuel kinds—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its name says, a garage heater only provides offering heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are after the most exact temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option as it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Since garage heaters are typically mounted on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage room. In comparison, low-profile mini-split systems are typically put 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 Woody's Sudden Service Inc can help. Reach us at 703-278-2036 now to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it installed quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.