Your garage can be more than just a space to park your vehicles in Bishop. It can be an area to work, offer extra 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 required for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective option. The wisest approach to heat your garage is by getting a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s go over the difference between the two to help you find the right option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it moves heat as opposed to creating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are usually installed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split costs more, many have received ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s temperature.
Many mini-splits allow you to join multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your house, you could be able to have additional indoor units in areas that are tricky to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is better than a space heater. This all-encompassing heating solution is mounted 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 great option if you reside in a cold climate and complete a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to last through extra grime.
Comparing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a handy guide to help you choose the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical style. The typical expense varies because of fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, using fuel to create warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll enjoy reduced utility bills if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could be eligible for additional rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its designation says, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are seeking the most exact comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest option since it provides zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Since garage heaters are often mounted on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage area. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are often installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of space.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Call us at 760-784-9034 right away to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it working quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.