Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Northridge. It can be an area to work, offer extra storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a cozy temperature.

Garages don’t typically have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous remedy. The wisest way 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 discover the right solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump because it transfers heat rather than generating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, many have received ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which gives exact control over your garage’s temperature.

Many mini-splits allow you to join multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your house, you might be able to use 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 all-encompassing heating solution is placed 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 solution if you reside in a chilly climate and complete a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to stand up to extra grime.

Comparing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve assembled a valuable guide to help you pick the right system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the lowest-priced option. The estimated price differs because of fuel type, but they’re often about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, consuming fuel to generate hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is more similar to a heat pump, which transfers heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll have even lower heating and cooling bills if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could have access to extra 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 offering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest solution because 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 placed on the ceiling, they can consume premium overhead storage area. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of space.

If you’re still deciding Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating can help. Contact us at (818) 727-9993 now to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, suggest a solution and get it installed rapidly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.