Mini-Splits vs. Garage Heaters: What’s Right for My Woodworking Space?

Comfy isn’t usually a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this space as a workshop for home improvement projects or hobbies including woodworking. Mulling transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to utilize the area all year.

Common systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically cost-prohibitive since there’s ductwork that’s necessary. Also, garages are often detached.

The two most popular options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t require ductwork. But which system should you go with? It’s critical to know the benefits of each to select the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust requires special thought since these particles can bog down filters and lower your system’s efficiency.

We review the differences to help you choose the right option for your shop.

Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, as they shift heat in place of making it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and join to an outside unit by a small hole in the wall.

A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and nearly silent operation. This makes it good for craftsmen looking for a calm, comfortable area to work. As they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated throughout the year.

As wood expands with changes in temperature, total control over heating and cooling is highly advantageous. Many carpenters and woodworkers recommend completing projects in temperatures very close to where the finished item will end up.

Checking your filter consistently is a crucial part of service. Cutting generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t keep up with your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and longevity.

A mini-split also needs routine upkeep from a professional HVAC tech, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help reduce the likelihood of malfunctions and may even help it work longer.

Garage Heaters: Great for Chilly Climates

Garage heaters operate slightly differently. They generate heat, so it’s better to compare one to a little furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you rely on your garage for additional storage, keep in mind that these heaters will require some of the overhead area.

A key difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the kind of fuel they use, because mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both typical kinds, but there are electric garage heaters also if you don’t want to worry about fuel connections.

Garage heaters come with a perk that makes them advantageous over a mini-split system. They don’t require a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from infiltrating those internal pieces.

Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

In the end there are a lot of things to keep in mind, such as the climate in the U.S.. These encompass:

• • Whether you want both heating and cooling, or only heating.

• • Your budget.

• • How much ceiling space you have in your woodshop.

• • How much time and money you want to dedicate to upkeep.

Ductless mini-split systems run more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t use your shop often, this may not be the most cost-effective solution. But woodshops in locations with wide shifts in temperature may benefit from more precise control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced solution. Different models utilize varying fuel sources to generate heat only, making them ill-suited for warm weather. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may lead to bigger utility costs. But the superior heat generation is recommended in colder climates.

For knowledgeable advice and installation, go with the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a productive space for a long time. Contact us at 866-397-3787 to schedule a free home comfort assessment or appointment right away.