Your garage can be more than just a place to store your vehicles in Lawrence. It can be a workshop, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork required for common heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The best approach to heat your garage is by getting 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 ideal style for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is similar to a heat pump as it shifts heat instead of generating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that lack ductwork. These electric systems are usually put on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

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

The majority of mini-splits allow you to join more than one indoor unit to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your house, you may be able to install additional indoor units in areas that are difficult to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater isn’t 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 run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent option if you reside in a cold climate and complete a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to withstand additional grime.

Evaluating Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The typical cost varies because of fuel type, but they’re usually 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 closer to a heat pump, which moves heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get reduced energy bills if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might be eligible for additional rebates because of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

Garage heaters have the most options for fuel types—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its title says, a garage heater is limited to only offering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most exact temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option as 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 often installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valuable overhead storage room. On the other hand, slim mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of real estate.

If you’re still deciding Scott Temperature can help. Contact us at 785-269-0465 now to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it installed rapidly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much faster.