Your garage can be more than just a place to put your vehicles in Paxinos. It can be a workshop, provide extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t typically have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most economical solution. The wisest way to heat your garage is by getting a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

Let’s discuss the difference between the two to help you find the best solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is much like a heat pump because it moves heat instead of creating 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 joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split is more expensive, many have received ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s temp.

The majority of mini-splits allow you to join more than one indoor unit to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your home, you may be able to install additional indoor units in spaces that are tricky to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is installed 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 good solution if you are situated in a cold climate and complete a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to withstand added grime.

Comparing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical option. The typical expense differs based on fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are much like a furnace, using fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which transfers hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy reduced heating and cooling bills if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may be eligible for added rebates due to 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 title indicates, a garage heater is restricted to just providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are looking for the most exact temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest answer since it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

As garage heaters are often mounted on the ceiling, they can take up premium overhead storage room. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are often installed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of real estate.

If you’re still waffling LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. can help. Contact us at 570-648-0748 now to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in rapidly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.