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

Comfy isn’t often a word used to describe a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this space as a workshop for home improvement projects or hobbies like woodworking. Mulling changing your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to use the garage year-round.

Standard systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically cost-prohibitive due to the ductwork that’s required. Also, garages are sometimes separate.

The two most frequently used solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, because they don’t have to have ductwork. But which system should you go with? It’s essential to be informed about each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust needs extra consideration because these particles can fill up filters and decrease your system’s efficiency.

We review the differences to help you select the right solution for your budget.

Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, because they shift heat in place of making it. This makes them highly energy efficient. They’re installed on your wall and connect to an outside unit by a small hole in the wall.

A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and quiet operation. This makes it good for craftsmen needing a relaxing, comfortable area to work. As they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used no matter the season.

As wood shrinks with adjustments in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is very beneficial. A lot of carpenters and woodworkers suggest doing woodworking in temperatures much like where the finished creation will end up.

Checking your filter frequently is a crucial component of service. Cutting kicks up a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you might lower your system’s efficiency and longevity.

A mini-split also needs frequent tune-ups from a certified HVAC technician, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help lower the probability of repairs and might even help it last for a greater period of time.

Garage Heaters: Great for Northern Climates

Garage heaters run a bit differently. They generate hot air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a little furnace. They’re mounted on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you need your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will require a portion the overhead room.

The main difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they need, as mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common models, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to bother with fuel sources.

Garage heaters include a perk that makes them advantageous over a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from getting into those internal parts.

Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

In the end there are lots of things to consider, such as the climate in the U.S.. These encompass:

• • Whether you need both heating and cooling, or just heating.

• • Your budget.

• • How much wall room you have in your shop.

• • How much time and money you want to devote to maintenance.

Ductless mini-split systems are more expensive up front than garage heaters. If you won’t need your garage all the time, this may not be the most cost-effective plan. But woodshops in locations with wide adjustments in weather may benefit from more precise control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced solution. Different models consume differing fuel sources to make heat only, making them bad for warm weather. Gas or propane garage heaters are great if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may lead to more expensive utility bills. But the great heat generation is recommended in northern areas.

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 excellent repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a relaxing space for a long time. Give us a call at 866-397-3787 to book a free home comfort assessment or appointment right away.