Mini Splits vs. Garage Heaters: What Should I Install in My Garage?

November 24, 2020

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

Garages don’t often have the ductwork necessary for common heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The wisest approach to heat your garage is by using 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 discover the ideal style for your needs.

What is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is much like a heat pump since it moves heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are usually installed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Even though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, most have earned ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and offer zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s temperature.

The majority of mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is connected to your home, you might be able to use added indoor units in areas that are hard to heat and cool.

What is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is better than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a great option if you live in a northern climate and perform a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand added grime.

Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical solution. The estimated cost varies due to fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, using fuel to generate warmth. A mini-split air conditioner is nearer to a heat pump, which moves warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll get even lower utility bills if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could be entitled to added rebates because of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its title suggests, a garage heater is restricted to just providing heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are after the most accurate comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best option because it provides 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 usually placed on the ceiling, they can take up premium overhead storage area. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are often placed higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of space.

If you’re still debating between a garage heater and mini-split, the professionals Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc can help. Contact us at 602-832-7808 today to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, advise you on a solution and get it working fast, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.