Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in Omaha. It can be a work space, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous remedy. The best approach 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 option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is much like a heat pump since it moves heat instead of making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Though a ductless mini-split costs more, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and offer zoned comfort, which provides precise control over your garage’s temperature.
Most mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your residence, you may be able to use additional indoor units in rooms that are hard to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great solution if you live in a northern climate and do a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to stand up to added grime.
Comparing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you choose the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the lowest-priced solution. The estimated cost is different because of fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, using fuel to make heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll get reduced heating and cooling expenses 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 kinds—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its designation says, a garage heater only provides offering heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are seeking the most exact temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option as it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the right temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Due to the fact garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage room. In comparison, slim mini-split systems are often installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of space.
If you’re still debating between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Contact us at 402-509-5940 today to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, suggest a solution and get it installed fast, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.