Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Huntsville. It can be a work space, provide extra storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork required for common heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous option. The best method to heat your garage is by using 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 much like a heat pump as it moves heat instead of making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are typically placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Even though a ductless mini-split costs more, many have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives precise 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 areas that are difficult 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 high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great choice if you are situated in a chilly climate and perform a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand additional grime.

Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical style. The typical expense is different based on fuel type, but they’re often about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are much like a furnace, using fuel to create warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy even lower utility expenses 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 widest options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its name indicates, a garage heater is limited to only offering heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

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

Space Considerations

Due to the fact garage heaters are often placed on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage space. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of space.

If you’re still deciding All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help. Reach us at 256-801-4701 today to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it working fast, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.