Comfy 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 pastimes including woodworking. Mulling transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By installing heating and cooling, you’ll be able to use the garage all year.
Standard systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are usually cost-prohibitive since there’s ductwork that’s necessary. Plus, garages are frequently not connected to your home.
The two most frequently used solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, because they don’t have to have ductwork. But which type should you select? It’s important to know the benefits of each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust needs extra consideration as these particles can fill up filters and lower your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you choose the ideal solution for your needs.
Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, because they shift heat in place of making it. This makes them highly 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 loved for its energy efficiency and nearly noiseless operation. This makes it good for craftsmen needing a calm, comfy space to work. Because they provide both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used throughout the year.
Since wood shrinks with adjustments in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is extremely advantageous. Many carpenters and woodworkers advise doing projects in temperatures very close to where the completed product will end up.
Changing your filter consistently is a crucial piece of upkeep. Cutting 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 needs regular tune-ups from a experienced HVAC specialist, like one from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help lower the chance of interruptions in comfort and might even help it work longer.
Garage Heaters: Best for Chilly Climates
Garage heaters run a little differently. They make warmth, so it’s ideal to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you need your garage for additional storage, know that these heaters will take up a portion the overhead room.
The biggest difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they need, because mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both standard types, but there are electric garage heaters as well if you don’t want to add fuel sources.
Garage heaters include a perk that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have separate combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from getting into those internal components.
Key Differences Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the end there are a lot of things to think over, like the climate in Ravenna. These include:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much ceiling space you have in your woodshop.
- How much time and money you want to dedicate to service.
Ductless mini-split systems cost more to begin with than garage heaters. If you won’t use your shop frequently, this may not be the smartest plan. But woodshops in areas with big changes in temperature may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable option. Different models utilize differing fuel sources to create heat only, making them bad for hotter areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are ideal if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so regular use may lead to higher utility costs. But the great heat generation is recommended in colder areas.
For skilled advice and installation, go with the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your garage will be a relaxing area for a long time. Contact us at 330-236-4793 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.