Your garage can be more than just a place to park your vehicles in Omaha. It can be an area to work, offer 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 required for regular heating and cooling systems. While you can install ductwork, it’s not the most economical remedy. The wisest method 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 discover the ideal style for your needs.

What Do Mini-Splits Offer?

A mini-split is close to a heat pump since it shifts heat as opposed to generating it. This makes it a very energy-efficient heating and cooling system for rooms without ductwork. These electric systems are often installed on a wall and connected to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

Though a ductless mini-split costs more, a lot have earned ENERGY STAR® designation for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and provide zoned comfort, which provides exact control over your garage’s temperature.

Many mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to one outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your residence, you might be able to have additional indoor units in spaces that are tricky to heat and cool.

What Is the Difference Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This comprehensive heating solution is placed 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 an excellent option if you reside in a northern climate and do a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand additional grime.

Reviewing Key Features of Mini Split Systems and Garage Heaters

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

Price

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

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, needing fuel to make hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which transfers hot air. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll get even lower heating and cooling costs if you choose an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you might have access to additional rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its title indicates, a garage heater will only be offering heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are looking for the most precise comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the best answer as it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be just the temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

Since garage heaters are typically installed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage area. In comparison, low-profile mini-split systems are often put higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of space.

If you’re still deciding Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Reach us at 402-581-9641 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it installed rapidly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much quicker.