Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Saint Louis. It can be an area to work, give added storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t often have the ductwork needed for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective option. 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 discuss the difference between the two to help you find the ideal solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is similar to a heat pump since it transfers heat rather than generating it. This makes it an extremely energy-efficient heating and cooling system for areas without ductwork. These electric systems are often placed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

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

The majority of mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your house, you might be able to install added 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 comprehensive heating solution is installed on the ceiling or the higher corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can run on electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good choice if you live in a cold climate and do a lot of dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and made to keep working through extra grime.

Evaluating Top Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

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

Price

Garage heaters are the lowest-priced option. The typical price differs because of fuel type, but they’re frequently about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters work similarly to a furnace, consuming fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which moves hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy reduced heating and cooling expenses if you select an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might have access to 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 providing heat. A ductless mini-split provides both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are after the most accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the smartest answer since it delivers 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 often mounted on the ceiling, they can take up valuable overhead storage room. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are typically installed higher up on a wall and don’t have to have a lot of room.

If you’re still deciding Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating can help. Call us at 314-262-4541 today to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, recommend a solution and get it working quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.