Whats Best For My Woodworking Area, a Mini-Split or Garage Heater?
2Comfortable isn’t often a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners maximize this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes such as woodworking. Considering transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll have the option use the space year-round.
Common systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are usually cost-prohibitive due to the ductwork that’s required. Plus, garages are frequently not connected to your home.
The two most frequently used options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t require ductwork. But which kind should you go with? It’s essential to know the benefits of each to select the most energy-efficient solution for your situation. Sawdust demands special thought since these particles can fill up filters and lower your system’s efficiency.
We break down the differences to help you pick the right system for your needs.
Mini-Splits: Best for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, because they transfer heat in place of generating it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and link to an outside unit through a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and nearly noiseless operation. This makes it great for craftsmen searching for a relaxing, cozy area to work. Because they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be run throughout the year.
As wood shrinks with changes in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is very useful. Most carpenters and woodworkers suggest finishing projects in temperatures very close to where the finished product will be used.
Changing your filter frequently is an important part of maintenance. Using a saw creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t clean your mini-split’s filter, you might lower your system’s efficiency and life span.
A mini-split also has to have frequent tune-ups from a experienced HVAC tech, like one from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help reduce the chance of repairs and could even help it last for an extended period of time.
Garage Heaters: Ideal for Northern Climates
Garage heaters work a bit differently. They make hot air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you need your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will require some of the overhead space.
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 standard models, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to add fuel connections.
Garage heaters come with a perk that gives them a leg up on a mini-split system. They don’t require a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which keeps sawdust from getting into those internal pieces.
Key Differences Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the end there are a lot of things to consider, such as the climate in Longmont. These involve:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much wall room you have in your shop.
- How much time and money you want to devote to maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems run more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t need your garage frequently, this may not be the most budget-friendly plan. But woodshops in areas with major shifts in temps may benefit from enhanced control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly solution. Different models utilize differing fuel sources to make heat only, making them bad for hotter climates. Gas or propane garage heaters are ideal if fuel costs are more reasonable. They’re not as energy efficient, so frequent use may create more expensive utility bills. But the excellent heat generation is desired in northern areas.
For dependable advice and installation, trust the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll help you make the best choice. And with outstanding repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a relaxing area for years. Contact us at 303-647-5749 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.
