Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Rapid City. It can be a work space, give additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a cozy temperature.
Garages don’t often have the ductwork required for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective remedy. The wisest method to heat your garage is by adding a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.
Let’s review the difference between the two to help you choose the right option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is close to a heat pump because it transfers heat as opposed to making it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that don’t have ductwork. These electric systems are typically installed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
Even though a ductless mini-split is higher priced, most have achieved ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and offer zoned comfort, which gives precise control over your garage’s temperature.
Many mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your house, you could be able to have additional indoor units in rooms that are hard 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 installed 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 a good solution if you are situated in a chilly climate and perform a lot of grubby dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to keep working through additional grime.
Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve created a valuable guide to help you choose the best system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly solution. The typical 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, using fuel to create warmth. 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 heating and cooling expenses if you choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you may be entitled to additional rebates due to that energy efficiency.
Fuel Source
Garage heaters have the most options for fuel kinds—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.
Heating and Cooling
As its title suggests, a garage heater is limited to only providing heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.
Precise Temperature Control
When you want the most accurate comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest solution as it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Due to the fact garage heaters are usually mounted on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage area. In contrast, slim mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of space.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists Street Heating and Cooling can help. Call us at 605-206-3915 right away to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, recommend a solution and get it installed rapidly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.