Your garage can be more than just an area to park your vehicles in Lancaster. It can be a workshop, provide additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most economical option. The smartest method 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 choose the ideal option for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is much like a heat pump as it moves heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that lack ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which gives accurate control over your garage’s temperature.

Many mini-splits allow you to connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your house, you might be able to use extra indoor units in rooms that are hard 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 use electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent choice if you live in a cold climate and perform a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to stand up to extra grime.

Evaluating Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The estimated expense differs based on fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, consuming fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get even lower utility expenses if you choose an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may be entitled to additional rebates due to 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 name suggests, a garage heater is limited to only offering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

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

Space Considerations

As garage heaters are typically mounted on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage room. In contrast, slim mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of space.

If you’re still waffling Fairfield Heating & Cooling can help. Call us at 740-331-4331 now to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.