Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in Chelan and Wenatchee. It can be an area to work, give additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t often have the ductwork necessary for common heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most economical option. The wisest way to heat your garage is by using a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s review the difference between the two to help you choose the best solution for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is much like a heat pump since it transfers heat rather than making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split is higher priced, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and offer zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s temperature.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to connect multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your residence, you might be able to use 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-in-one heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent choice if you reside in a northern climate and do a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand extra grime.
Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve made a valuable guide to help you select the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The typical price varies due to fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, using fuel to create warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy even lower utility expenses if you get an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could be entitled to additional rebates because of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the broadest options for fuel types—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 offers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you want the most accurate temperature 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
Since garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage room. In contrast, low-profile mini-split systems are usually put higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of real estate.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Lakeside Heating & Air can help. Contact us at 509-284-4265 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.