Your garage can be more than just a space to store your vehicles in Houston. It can be a work space, give extra storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.
Garages don’t typically have the ductwork needed for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The smartest method to heat your garage is by using 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 style for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is similar to a heat pump because it moves heat as opposed to making it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are often placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split costs more, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which provides exact control over your garage’s temperature.
The majority of mini-splits allow you to connect more than one indoor unit to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your home, you could be able to have additional indoor units in spaces that are hard to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater is better than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent choice if you live in a chilly climate and do a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to keep working through additional grime.
Comparing 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 style. The typical expense differs because of fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.
Operating Costs
Garage heaters are much like a furnace, consuming fuel to create heat. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which shifts warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll have decreased energy costs if you get an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you might be entitled to added rebates because 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 designation suggests, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you are seeking the most exact temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest answer since it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Since garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can eat up premium overhead storage room. In contrast, space-saving mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of real estate.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Marcos AC & Heating can help. Contact us at 713-469-3357 now to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, suggest a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much faster.