Comfy isn’t typically a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this space as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering like woodworking. Thinking about transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By installing heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to utilize the garage throughout the year.
Traditional systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often expensive since there’s ductwork that’s necessary. Not to mention, garages are sometimes detached.
The two most popular solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, since they don’t need ductwork. But which kind should you go with? It’s important to be informed about each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust needs additional planning since these particles can fill up filters and reduce your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you pick the best system for your budget.
Mini-Splits: Best for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, since they transfer heat instead of generating it. This makes them highly energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and join to an exterior unit via a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is popular for its energy efficiency and quiet operation. This makes it ideal for craftsmen searching for a tranquil, comfy space to work. As they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used no matter the season.
Because wood contracts with adjustments in temperature, total control over heating and cooling is extremely advantageous. Many carpenters and woodworkers recommend doing work in temperatures very close to where the finished product will live.
Checking your filter frequently is a crucial piece of service. Using a saw kicks up a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you might lower your system’s efficiency and life span.
A mini-split also requires routine service from a certified HVAC technician, like one from Midway Services. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help decrease the probability of repairs and could even help it work for an extended period of time.
Garage Heaters: Ideal for Cold Climates
Garage heaters work a bit differently. They make heat, so it’s better to compare one to a mini furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, typically in a corner. If you need your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will eat up a portion the overhead area.
The biggest difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they need, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common kinds, but there are electric garage heaters as well if you don’t want to bother with fuel hookups.
Garage heaters have a feature that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have separate combustion chambers, which halts sawdust from reaching those internal parts.
Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
Ultimately there are a lot of things to keep in mind, including the climate in Clearwater. These include:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or merely heating.
- Your budget.
- How much overhead space you have in your woodshop.
- How much time and money you want to dedicate to service.
Ductless mini-split systems cost more up front than garage heaters. If you won’t need your garage frequently, this may not be the most cost-effective solution. But woodshops in climates with big changes in weather may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable solution. Different models consume varying fuel sources to make heat only, making them ill-suited for warm climates. Gas or propane garage heaters are great if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so regular use may lead to bigger utility bills. But the great heat generation is preferable in cooler locations.
For professional advice and installation, call the HVAC Experts at Midway Services. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with outstanding repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a productive location for a long time. Reach us at 727-219-2471 to book a free home comfort assessment or appointment right away.