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

Comfortable isn’t usually a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners maximize this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or hobbies like woodworking. Thinking about transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to utilize the area year-round.

Common systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often cost-prohibitive because of the ductwork that’s necessary. Also, garages are frequently separate.

The two most frequently installed solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, since they don’t need ductwork. But which system should you select? It’s important to be aware of each to select the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust needs special consideration as these particles can bog down filters and decrease your system’s efficiency.

We go over the differences to help you choose the right system for your shop.

Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, since they move heat instead of making it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and join to an outdoor unit via a small hole in the wall.

A mini-split air conditioner is popular for its energy efficiency and nearly silent operation. This makes it ideal for craftsmen looking for a tranquil, comfy space to work. Because they provide both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used all year round.

Since wood shrinks with shifts in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is extremely advantageous. Many carpenters and woodworkers advise doing woodworking in temperatures similar to where the completed item will be used.

Checking your filter often is a crucial piece of maintenance. Cutting generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and longevity.

A mini-split also needs frequent tune-ups from a professional HVAC tech, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal components clean and lubricated will help lower the chance of malfunctions and may even help it last longer.

Garage Heaters: Ideal for Northern Climates

Garage heaters run a bit differently. They make warmth, so it’s ideal to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you need your garage for extra storage, keep in mind that these heaters will take up some of the overhead area.

The main difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they run on, because mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both typical models, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to worry about fuel connections.

Garage heaters include a feature that gives them a leg up on a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have separate combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from reaching those internal parts.

Key Differences Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

Ultimately there are a lot of things to consider, including the temperatures in the U.S.. These include:

    • Whether you want both heating and cooling, or merely heating.
    • Your budget.
    • How much ceiling room you have in your woodshop.
    • How much time and money you want to devote to tune-ups.

Ductless mini-split systems are more expensive up front than garage heaters. If you won’t need your shop often, this may not be the most budget-friendly option. But woodshops in locations with wide changes in weather may benefit from better control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly choice. Different models utilize different fuel sources to create heat only, making them not a good choice for warm areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so regular use may result in bigger utility bills. But the excellent heat generation is recommended in northern climates.

For trustworthy advice and installation, go with 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 garage will be a productive space for many years to come. Give us a call at 866-397-3787 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment now.

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