The Short Answer: Usually, Yes—If You Use the Space
If you regularly work on projects, store sensitive items, or want a warmer entry point into your home, heating your garage can be a smart choice. A properly sized garage heater keeps tools usable, helps paint and finishes cure better, adds comfort for workouts or hobbies, and reduces winter wear on your car. In Oakland County, MI, where deep freezes are the norm, a heated garage can feel like a daily upgrade.
What Are My Garage Heating Options?
Ductless Mini-Split (Best All-Around Comfort)
A mini-split—also called ductless heat—is a high-efficiency system with an outdoor unit and a compact indoor head mounted on the wall or ceiling.
Pros:
- Heating and cooling in one: Great year-round comfort for workshops and gyms.
- Efficient and quiet: Inverter technology sips energy compared to space heaters.
- Zoned comfort: Heat the garage without overworking your home system.
Considerations: - Upfront cost: Higher than basic heaters, but operating costs are lower.
- Electric supply: May require an electrical upgrade depending on your panel.
Gas Unit Heater (High Heat, Rugged, Cost-Effective)
A ceiling-hung gas heater is a classic choice for garages.
Pros:
- Fast, powerful heat: Warms big spaces quickly.
- Lower install price: Often less expensive than a mini-split upfront.
- Simple controls: Thermostat or basic on/off options.
Considerations: - Venting and combustion air: Must be installed correctly for safety.
- No cooling: Heat only.
- Efficiency varies: Modern sealed-combustion units perform best.
Electric Options (Spot Heat or Supplemental)
Infrared or unit electric heaters can work for small areas or quick warmups.
Pros:
- Simple install: No gas line or venting.
- Targeted comfort: Point heat where you stand or work.
Considerations: - Operating cost: Electricity-only heat can cost more to run in deep winter.
- Limited coverage: Not ideal for large garages or all-day use.
Is Heating My Garage a Smart Choice?
Think Through How You Use the Space
- Daily projects or a home gym? Choose a mini-split for steady, even heat and summer cooling.
- Occasional wrenching or snow-blower tune-ups? A gas heater offers fast warmups on demand.
- Short, targeted tasks? An electric radiant unit may do the trick.
Consider Energy and Comfort
- Insulation and air sealing matter. Add weatherstripping at the overhead door, seal gaps, and consider insulated doors and walls. Every bit of envelope improvement lowers run time and improves comfort.
- Right-sizing is critical. Oversized heaters cycle and waste energy; undersized units never catch up. Kotz will measure your space, usage, and building tightness before recommending a size.
Safety First
- Proper venting (gas): Sealed-combustion gas heaters draw air from outdoors and vent exhaust safely, reducing carbon monoxide risk.
- Clearances: Keep combustibles away from heaters and follow manufacturer specs.
- Code compliance: Electrical loads, gas lines, and venting must meet Michigan code. Professional installation protects your warranty and your family.
Mini-Split vs. Gas Heater: How to Choose
Pick a Ductless Mini-Split If You Want:
- Year-round comfort (cooling in summer, heat in winter).
- Quiet, steady temperatures for precision work, hobbies, or a home gym.
- Lower monthly costs compared to many electric heaters.
- Cleaner garage air (no combustion in the space).
Pick a Gas Heater If You Want:
- Lower upfront cost and quick heat for larger garages.
- Occasional use with powerful output when you need it.
- A rugged solution that hangs out of the way and frees floor space.
What About Costs?
- Installation: Gas unit heaters typically cost less to install than mini-splits. Mini-splits cost more upfront but can save on operating costs and provide cooling.
- Operating: With good insulation, both options can be economical. Mini-splits are known for efficiency; modern sealed-combustion gas units also perform well.
- Value: A comfortable, usable garage often feels like extra square footage—great for hobbies, storage, and resale appeal.
Common Questions We Hear
Will heating my garage waste energy?
Not if it is sized right, installed correctly, and paired with basic air sealing. Zoning a ductless system means you only heat when you need it.
Is a space heater enough?
Portable plug-in heaters may help in a pinch, but they are not ideal for whole-garage comfort, and many are not designed for continuous use.
Can I add cooling later?
If you start with a gas heater and later want cooling, you can add a mini-split just for cooling. Many homeowners start with a mini-split to get both from day one.
Garage Heaters in Oakland County, MI
Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has served Waterford, MI and the surrounding areas since 1929. We are locally owned, and our reputation is built on quality workmanship, honesty, integrity, and personalized attention. We stand behind reliable products from trusted manufacturers and offer top-of-the-line professional plumbing and HVAC services.
Let’s Make Your Garage Comfortable—All Year
Whether you want a high-efficiency ductless mini-split or a reliable gas heater, our team will size, install, and maintain the right system for your needs. Call Kotz today to schedule a free, no-pressure estimate and discover how comfortable your garage can be this Michigan winter.
