Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in Cottonwood & Prescott. It can be an area to work, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork needed for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most economical option. The smartest method to heat your garage is by installing a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s go over the difference between the two to help you find the right option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is much like a heat pump since it transfers heat rather than generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and offer zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s temp.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your residence, you may be able to use additional indoor units in areas that are hard to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater isn’t a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is mounted on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent option if you are situated in a northern climate and complete a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to keep working through extra grime.
Evaluating Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you select the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical solution. The estimated expense differs because of fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, using fuel to generate hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which moves heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll have decreased utility costs if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might have access to added rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel kinds—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its designation indicates, a garage heater only provides providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you want the most precise temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the best solution because 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 often installed on the ceiling, they can eat up premium overhead storage space. In contrast, space-saving mini-split systems are often placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of space.
If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Connolly Electric & Mechanical can help. Call us at 928-251-4327 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.