Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Excelsior Springs. It can be an area to work, give additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork required for common heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous option. The smartest way to heat your garage is by having a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

Let’s go over the difference between the two to help you discover the right style for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is similar to a heat pump since it shifts heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms without ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split costs more, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which gives accurate control over your garage’s temperature.

The majority of mini-splits allow you to connect more than one indoor unit to a single outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your residence, you might be able to use extra indoor units in spaces that are tricky 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 higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good option if you are situated in a northern climate and complete a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to stand up to additional grime.

Reviewing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the lowest-priced solution. The typical expense varies due to fuel type, but they’re usually about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, consuming fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll have reduced energy bills if you choose 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 most options for fuel sources—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its designation says, a garage heater will only be providing heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are after the most accurate temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest answer because 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 typically installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage area. On the other hand, slim mini-split systems are often placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of real estate.

If you’re still waffling Colvin's Heating and Cooling can help. Contact us at 816-379-3918 now to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed fast, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.