Your garage can be more than just a space to put your vehicles in Buellton. It can be a work space, offer added storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork needed for common heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective solution. The smartest method to heat your garage is by using 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 choose the ideal solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it moves heat instead of creating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that lack ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Even though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, a lot have achieved ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s climate.

Many mini-splits allow you to connect more than one indoor unit to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your home, you may be able to have additional indoor units in spaces that are tricky to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is better than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent solution if you are situated in a northern climate and perform a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to keep working through added grime.

Reviewing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical option. The typical cost differs because of fuel type, but they’re often 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 more similar to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get reduced heating and cooling expenses if you choose an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may 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 designation suggests, a garage heater will only be offering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

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

Space Considerations

Because garage heaters are usually mounted on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage space. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Reach us at 805-242-9638 now to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much faster.