Your garage can be more than just a place to store your vehicles in Winnipeg. It can be a workshop, give additional storage and more. But when you’re working out there more often, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.
Garages don’t usually have the ductwork required for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can get ductwork, it’s not the most economical remedy. The smartest approach to heat your garage is by adding 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 right option for your needs.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is much like a heat pump since it transfers heat as opposed to making it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces that lack ductwork. These electric systems are typically installed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.
Although a ductless mini-split costs more, most have received ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also extremely quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers accurate control over your garage’s climate.
Many mini-splits allow you to join multiple indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is adjacent to your house, you might be able to use added indoor units in areas that are difficult to heat and cool.
What is a Garage Heater?
A garage heater isn’t a space heater. This all-encompassing 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 a great solution if you reside in a northern climate and perform a lot of dirty dirty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and created to withstand additional grime.
Evaluating Notable Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits
We’ve put together a valuable guide to help you choose the right system for your garage.
Price
Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly style. The typical cost 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, needing fuel to generate heat. A mini-split air conditioner is more like a heat pump, which shifts warmth. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll enjoy reduced energy costs if you get an ENERGY STAR® certified model. And you could be entitled to 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 name suggests, a garage heater is limited to only delivering 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 best answer because it offers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.
Space Considerations
Since garage heaters are usually mounted on the ceiling, they can take up premium overhead storage area. In comparison, low-profile mini-split systems are usually installed higher up on a wall and don’t require a lot of room.
If you’re still deciding between a garage heater and mini-split, the specialists Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Reach us at 204-272-8128 today to receive a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, suggest a solution and get it put in quickly, so you can begin enjoying your garage workspace much faster.