Your garage can be more than just an area to store your vehicles in Kankakee. It can be a workshop, offer added storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add 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 find the best style for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump because it transfers heat rather than creating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas that lack ductwork. These electric systems are typically put on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Even though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, a lot have achieved ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and offer zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s climate.

Most mini-splits allow you to connect more than one indoor unit to one outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your residence, you could be able to use added indoor units in spaces that are tricky to heat and cool.

What Are Garage Heaters?

A garage heater is better than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great option if you live in a northern climate and perform a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to last through additional grime.

Comparing Notable Features of Mini Split Systems and Garage Heaters

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

Price

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

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, needing 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 decreased utility expenses if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might be eligible for added rebates due to that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its designation indicates, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are looking for the most precise temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest solution because it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

Due to the fact garage heaters are typically mounted on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage space. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of real estate.

If you’re still deciding Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating can help. Call us at 815-933-8213 now to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in rapidly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.