Your garage can be more than just a place to store your vehicles in Tucson. It can be a work space, give extra storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork required for regular 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 adding 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 ideal style for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is close to a heat pump because it shifts heat instead of creating it. This makes it a highly 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 small hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split costs more, many have earned ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also highly quiet and provide zoned comfort, which offers accurate control over your garage’s temp.
Most mini-splits allow you to join more than one indoor unit to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your house, you could be able to install added indoor units in spaces that are tricky 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 placed on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent option if you reside in a cold climate and do a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to last through additional grime.
Evaluating 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 style. The average cost is different based on fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are much like a furnace, using fuel to make heat. 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 energy costs if you select an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could be eligible for extra rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the widest options for fuel kinds—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its title indicates, a garage heater only provides providing 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 wisest option as it delivers 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 typically installed on the ceiling, they can consume premium overhead storage space. In comparison, space-saving mini-split systems are usually put higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.
If you’re still debating between a garage heater and mini-split, the pros Ambient Air can help. Call us at 520-357-4912 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it put in fast, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.