Mini-Splits vs. Garage Heaters: What’s Ideal for My Woodshop?

Cozy isn’t usually a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners take full advantage of this space as a workshop for home improvement projects or hobbies including woodworking. Mulling transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll have the option utilize the garage throughout the year.

Standard systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are usually pricey since there’s ductwork that’s necessary. Plus, garages are often separate.

The two most popular options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t require ductwork. But which kind should you go with? It’s critical to be informed about each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust needs extra consideration because these particles can fill up filters and lower your system’s efficiency.

We review the differences to help you pick the best option for your shop.

Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, since they shift heat in place of making it. This makes them highly energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and join to an exterior 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 ideal for craftsmen needing a calm, comfortable area to work. As they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used throughout the year.

Because wood contracts with changes in temperature, total control over heating and cooling is extremely beneficial. A lot of carpenters and woodworkers recommend doing work in temperatures much like where the finished creation will end up.

Changing your filter consistently is a crucial piece of maintenance. Using a saw generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t keep up with your mini-split’s filter, you risk reducing your system’s efficiency and lifetime.

A mini-split also has to have frequent tune-ups from a professional HVAC technician, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help decrease the probability of breakdowns and could even help it run for an extended period of time.

Garage Heaters: Great for Northern Climates

Garage heaters work slightly differently. They generate heated air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a small furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, typically in a corner. If you rely on your garage for added storage, keep in mind that these heaters will require a part the overhead space.

The biggest difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the fuel type, because mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both standard kinds, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to bother with fuel connections.

Garage heaters come with a perk that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t have to have a filter and some models have separate combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from infiltrating those internal pieces.

Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

Ultimately there are lots of things to consider, including the weather in the U.S.. These encompass:

• • Whether you are looking for both heating and cooling, or just heating.

• • Your budget.

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

• • How much time and money you want to dedicate to tune-ups.

Ductless mini-split systems cost more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t need your woodshop all the time, this may not be the most budget-friendly option. But woodshops in climates with large changes in weather may benefit from better control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced choice. Different models utilize varying fuel sources to make heat only, making them bad for warm areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are ideal if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may lead to bigger utility expenses. But the great heat generation is preferable in northern locations.

For trustworthy advice and installation, trust the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’ll help you make the right choice. And with outstanding repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a relaxing area for years. Reach us at 866-397-3787 to schedule a free home comfort assessment or appointment now.