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

Garages don’t often have the ductwork needed for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective solution. The wisest approach to heat your garage is by getting 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 ideal style for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it transfers heat rather than making it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are usually put on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

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

The majority of mini-splits allow you to join several indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your house, you could be able to install additional indoor units in spaces that are tricky to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater isn’t a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is installed 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 solution if you are situated in a northern climate and complete a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to last through additional grime.

Reviewing Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the lowest-priced style. The typical price differs based on fuel type, but they’re often about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, consuming fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to run. You’ll enjoy even lower energy costs if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might be eligible for 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 title suggests, a garage heater is restricted to just delivering heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are seeking the most exact temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the best answer since it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

As garage heaters are usually placed on the ceiling, they can eat up premium overhead storage room. In comparison, slim mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Fire & Ice HVAC can help. Call us at 703-595-4157 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, suggest a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.