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

Garages don’t typically have the ductwork required for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous remedy. The best method to heat your garage is by using a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

Let’s review the difference between the two to help you discover the ideal solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump because it shifts heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are typically installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and provide zoned comfort, which provides accurate control over your garage’s temp.

The majority of mini-splits allow you to connect several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your house, you could be able to use extra indoor units in spaces that are hard to heat and cool.

What Do Garage Heaters Provide?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is mounted on the ceiling or the higher 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 northern climate and perform a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to withstand extra grime.

Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve made a useful guide to help you pick the ideal system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly solution. The average cost varies due to 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 make warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy even lower utility bills if you choose an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might be eligible for added rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its name indicates, a garage heater will only be offering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

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

Space Considerations

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

If you’re still deciding Childress Heating & AC can help. Call us at 540-675-4306 right away to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, suggest a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.