Your garage can be more than just a place to park your vehicles in Williamsport. It can be an area to work, offer added storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t often have the ductwork needed for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous solution. The wisest approach 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 best option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump since it moves heat rather than generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split costs more, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and offer zoned comfort, which gives exact control over your garage’s climate.
Most mini-splits allow you to join several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your home, you might be able to install added indoor units in areas 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 mounted on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great choice if you live in a northern climate and complete a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to last through additional grime.
Evaluating Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you select the ideal system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most economical solution. The typical price varies based on fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are much like a furnace, consuming fuel to make warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll enjoy reduced heating and cooling costs if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could have access to added rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the widest options for fuel types—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 provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are after the most exact comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option as it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Because garage heaters are typically installed on the ceiling, they can eat up premium overhead storage room. On the other hand, slim mini-split systems are usually put 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 Lycoming Heating Company can help. Reach us at 570-326-4450 now to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, recommend a solution and get it working quickly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.