Your garage can be more than just a place to store your vehicles in Cottonwood & Verde Valley. It can be a workshop, offer 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 necessary for common heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective solution. The best approach to heat your garage is by having a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

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

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump as it shifts heat rather than generating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that lack ductwork. These electric systems are usually installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split is higher priced, most have received ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and offer zoned comfort, which provides exact control over your garage’s temp.

Most mini-splits allow you to join several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your home, you may be able to use added indoor units in areas that are tricky to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good option if you live in a chilly climate and complete a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to last through additional grime.

Reviewing Top Features of Mini Split Systems and Garage Heaters

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical style. The estimated cost differs because of fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are much like a furnace, consuming fuel to generate 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 get reduced energy costs if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could be entitled to extra rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its name suggests, a garage heater is limited to only providing heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most exact comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best solution because it offers 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 placed on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage room. In contrast, slim mini-split systems are usually placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Connolly Electric & Mechanical can help. Reach us at 928-862-5977 right away to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed fast, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.