Your garage can be more than just a place to store your vehicles in McKinney and Frisco. It can be a workshop, offer extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous remedy. The best 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 find the best option for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is similar to a heat pump as it transfers heat rather than making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are usually put on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have achieved ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives accurate control over your garage’s climate.

The majority of mini-splits allow you to link multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your home, you may be able to install extra indoor units in rooms that are hard to heat and cool.

What Is the Difference Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters?

A garage heater isn’t a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is mounted 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 solution if you reside in a cold climate and do a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to keep working through additional grime.

Reviewing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly solution. The average cost varies due to fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, needing fuel to create hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which moves warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy decreased energy costs if you get 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 broadest options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its designation indicates, a garage heater will only be delivering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most precise temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest option as it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the 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. In comparison, space-saving mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Bell Mechanical Services can help. Reach us at 888-863-0560 right away to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much faster.