Comfy isn’t typically a word used to describe a garage. But many homeowners take full advantage of this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering like woodworking. Considering transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to use the garage year-round.
Standard systems, including a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically cost-prohibitive since there’s ductwork that’s needed. Plus, garages are often separate.
The two most frequently used options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t need ductwork. But which kind should you select? It’s critical to know the benefits of each to choose the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust demands additional planning since these particles can bog down filters and reduce your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you select the best system for your shop.
Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, since they move heat in place of generating it. This makes them very energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and link to an outdoor 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 great for craftsmen looking for a relaxing, cozy space to work. Since they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated no matter the season.
As wood shrinks with adjustments in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is highly advantageous. Many carpenters and woodworkers recommend completing projects in temperatures very close to where the completed creation will end up.
Changing your filter frequently is a critical piece of maintenance. Sanding creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and lifetime.
A mini-split also has to have frequent upkeep from a professional HVAC tech, like one from Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts. Keeping its internal components clean and lubricated will help lower the chance of interruptions in comfort and may even help it last for a greater period of time.
Garage Heaters: Great for Northern Climates
Garage heaters work slightly differently. They make hot air, so it’s best to compare one to a mini furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you need your garage for additional 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 kind of fuel they use, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both typical types, but there are electric garage heaters also if you don’t want to bother with fuel connections.
Garage heaters have a plus that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have sealed combustion chambers, which keeps sawdust from infiltrating those internal components.
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 Windsor. These encompass:
- Whether you need both heating and cooling, or only heating.
- Your budget.
- How much ceiling space you have in your garage.
- How much time and money you want to spend on maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems cost more up front than garage heaters. If you don’t plan on using your shop often, this may not be the smartest solution. But woodshops in locations with big changes in temperature may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced option. Different models use varying fuel sources to create heat only, making them ill-suited for warmer weather. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so regular use may create bigger utility bills. But the excellent heat generation is preferable in northern areas.
For skilled advice and installation, turn to the HVAC Experts at Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts. We’ll help you make the right choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your garage will be a relaxing area for many years to come. Contact us at 226-773-3357 to book a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.