Comfortable isn’t usually a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering such as woodworking. Thinking about changing your garage into a home woodshop? By installing heating and cooling, you’ll be able to enjoy the garage year-round.
Traditional systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often expensive since there’s ductwork that’s required. Also, garages are sometimes detached.
The two most frequently installed styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, since they don’t have to have ductwork. But which kind should you select? It’s essential to know the benefits of each to choose the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust demands extra thought since these particles can clog filters and lower your system’s efficiency.
We break down the differences to help you pick the ideal system for your needs.
Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, as they transfer heat rather than generating it. This makes them highly energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and connect to an outside unit with a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is popular for its energy efficiency and nearly silent operation. This makes it good for craftsmen needing a calm, comfy area to work. Since they provide both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used all year round.
Since wood contracts with adjustments in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is very beneficial. Most carpenters and woodworkers advise finishing projects in temperatures very close to where the completed item will end up.
Checking your filter often is a critical part of upkeep. Using a saw kicks up a lot of sawdust. If you don’t clean your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and life span.
A mini-split also has to have frequent upkeep from a professional HVAC technician, like one from Calverley Service Experts. Keeping its internal components clean and lubricated will help lower the likelihood of interruptions in comfort and might even help it work for an extended period of time.
Garage Heaters: Great for Cold Climates
Garage heaters operate slightly differently. They make warmth, so it’s better to compare one to a little furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you rely on your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will require a part the overhead space.
The main difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they need, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common models, but there are electric garage heaters also if you don’t want to add fuel sources.
Garage heaters come with a feature that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t require a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from getting into those internal pieces.
Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the long run there are many things to think over, such as the temperatures in Fort Worth. These encompass:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much overhead space you have in your shop.
- How much time and money you want to dedicate to maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems are more expensive at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t use your garage all the time, this may not be the smartest plan. But woodshops in climates with large changes in temps may benefit from more precise control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable solution. Different models consume differing fuel sources to generate heat only, making them bad for warmer climates. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so frequent use may result in higher utility expenses. But the excellent heat generation is preferable in cooler locations.
For skilled advice and installation, trust the HVAC Experts at Calverley Service Experts. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with quality repair and maintenance services, your woodshop will be a productive area for a long time. Contact us at 817-380-5647 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.