Your garage can be more than just an area to park your vehicles in Pocatello. It can be a work space, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous option. 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 go over the difference between the two to help you choose the right style for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump as it transfers heat instead of generating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms that lack ductwork. These electric systems are often put on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split is more expensive, most have received ENERGY STAR® recognition for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and provide zoned comfort, which provides exact control over your garage’s climate.

Most mini-splits allow you to link more than one indoor unit to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your home, you may be able to use additional indoor units in rooms that are difficult to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the high corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent option if you are situated in a cold climate and do a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand extra grime.

Reviewing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve created a valuable guide to help you select the right system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The average expense varies based on fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, needing fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy reduced heating and cooling expenses if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may be eligible for added rebates due to 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 limited to only offering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you want the most precise temperature control, a mini-split heat pump is the best answer since 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 placed on the ceiling, they can take up premium overhead storage space. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are typically placed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.

If you’re still deciding Vogts Heating & Air can help. Reach us at 208-621-0129 right away to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll go over your needs, advise you on a solution and get it put in fast, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.