Your garage can be more than just an area to put your vehicles in Sacramento. It can be a workshop, give additional storage and more. But when you’re out there more often, it needs to be a comfy temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most advantageous 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 review the difference between the two to help you choose the right option for your needs.

What Are Mini-Split Systems?

A mini-split is similar to a heat pump because it moves 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 usually placed on a wall and joined to the outdoor unit through a little hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split costs more, a lot have received ENERGY STAR® designation 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 more than one indoor unit to one outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your home, you could be able to use added indoor units in areas that are tricky 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 mounted on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can consume electricity, gas or propane. They’re a good choice if you are situated in a chilly climate and complete a lot of grubby work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to stand up to added grime.

Reviewing Key Features of Mini Split Systems and Garage Heaters

We’ve made a valuable guide to help you pick the best system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most economical option. The typical price is different because of fuel type, but they’re often about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are much like a furnace, consuming fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which transfers warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to use. You’ll enjoy reduced utility bills if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you could have access to additional rebates because of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

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

Heating and Cooling

As its name says, a garage heater is limited to only providing heat. A ductless mini-split delivers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are looking for the most precise comfort control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest option as it provides 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 consume valued overhead storage space. On the other hand, low-profile mini-split systems are usually placed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.

If you’re still waffling Bishop’s HVAC can help. Call us at 916-591-6889 today to request a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll discuss your needs, advise you on a solution and get it installed quickly, so you can start enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.