Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Lincoln. It can be an area to work, offer extra storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous solution. The wisest way to heat your garage is by installing 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 right solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump because it transfers heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are usually installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have achieved ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which gives accurate control over your garage’s temperature.
Most mini-splits allow you to link multiple indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your house, you might be able to use added indoor units in rooms 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 placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent solution if you are situated in a cold climate and perform a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to withstand extra grime.
Comparing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve assembled a useful guide to help you select the ideal system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the lowest-priced style. The average cost is different 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, consuming fuel to create heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which moves hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll get decreased utility expenses if you get an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might be eligible for additional rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the widest 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 seeking the most exact comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest solution because it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are often installed on the ceiling, they can consume valued overhead storage area. In comparison, slim mini-split systems are typically placed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.
If you’re still debating between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists AW Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Reach us at 402-438-7992 now to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it working quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.