Comfy isn’t usually a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this space as a workshop for home improvement projects or hobbies including woodworking. Thinking about changing your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll be able to utilize the space year-round.
Traditional systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often expensive because of the ductwork that’s necessary. Also, garages are frequently not connected to your home.
The two most frequently installed styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t have to have ductwork. But which kind should you choose? It’s important to be informed about each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust requires extra planning because these particles can fill up filters and lower your system’s efficiency.
We go over the differences to help you choose the right solution for your needs.
Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, because they transfer heat instead of generating it. This makes them highly energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and link to an outside unit with a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and nearly silent operation. This makes it ideal for craftsmen needing a relaxing, comfortable location to work. Since they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used no matter the season.
As wood contracts with adjustments in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is very advantageous. Most carpenters and woodworkers suggest finishing projects in temperatures much like where the final item will live.
Changing your filter often is a crucial piece of maintenance. Cutting creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you might lower your system’s efficiency and lifetime.
A mini-split also requires routine tune-ups from a professional HVAC specialist, like one from Becht/Givens Service Experts. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help lower the chance of breakdowns and might even help it run for an extended period of time.
Garage Heaters: Ideal for Cold Climates
Garage heaters operate slightly differently. They generate heated air, so it’s best to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re mounted on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you rely on your garage for extra storage, know that these heaters will take up some of the overhead space.
A key difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the fuel type, because 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 bother with fuel connections.
Garage heaters have a bonus that makes them advantageous over a mini-split system. They don’t have to have a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from getting into those internal pieces.
Key Differences Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
Ultimately there are a lot of things to consider, such as the weather in Louisville. These include:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or merely heating.
- Your budget.
- How much wall space you have in your woodshop.
- How much time and money you want to dedicate to maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems are more expensive to begin with than garage heaters. If you don’t plan on using your woodshop all the time, this may not be the most cost-effective plan. But woodshops in areas with major shifts in weather may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced solution. Different models use different fuel sources to make heat only, making them bad for hotter areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are great if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so regular use may create more expensive utility expenses. But the great heat generation is recommended in northern climates.
For skilled advice and installation, trust the HVAC Experts at Becht/Givens Service Experts. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with quality repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a useful location for a long time. Reach us at 502-785-8230 to schedule a free home comfort assessment or appointment right away.