Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Fredericksburg. 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 needed for common heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The smartest way to heat your garage is by using a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

Let’s go through the difference between the two to help you find the best style for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it shifts heat rather than creating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

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

The majority of mini-splits allow you to join several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your house, you may be able to have additional indoor units in areas that are difficult to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is better than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent choice if you reside in a cold climate and perform a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to last through additional grime.

Reviewing Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve created a handy guide to help you choose the ideal system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The average 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, using fuel to create hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which moves hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll have even lower energy expenses if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might have access to additional rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its name says, a garage heater is limited to only providing heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are seeking the most accurate comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best solution as it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

Since garage heaters are usually installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage space. In comparison, space-saving mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Childress Heating & AC can help. Call us at 540-675-4306 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, recommend a solution and get it put in fast, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.