Mini Splits vs. Garage Heaters: Whats Right for My Garage?

November 24, 2020

Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Delray Beach. It can be a workshop, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.

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

Let’s go through the difference between the two to help you choose the right option for your needs.

What is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is much like a heat pump as it transfers heat rather than creating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are often placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Even though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have earned ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives precise control over your garage’s temp.

Many mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your house, you might be able to have added indoor units in rooms that are difficult to heat and cool.

What is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater isn’t 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 reside in a cold climate and do a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to stand up to added grime.

Evaluating Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you choose the ideal system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical style. The typical price is different 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 hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll get decreased energy costs if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could be eligible for extra rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its title says, a garage heater only provides delivering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

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

Space Considerations

As garage heaters are usually installed on the ceiling, they can consume valued overhead storage area. In comparison, low-profile mini-split systems are typically placed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Kilbourne Heating & AC can help. Reach us at 561-287-7071 today to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, suggest a solution and get it working quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.