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

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 hobbies including woodworking. Thinking about using your garage for a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to enjoy the garage all year. 

Standard systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are usually pricey because of the ductwork that’s needed. Not to mention, garages are sometimes not connected to your home. 

The two most frequently installed options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t require ductwork. But which system should you go with? It’s critical to be informed about each to choose the most energy-efficient solution for your situation. Sawdust requires special thought because these particles can bog down filters and reduce your system’s efficiency. 

We break down the differences to help you select the best solution for your shop. 

Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling 

Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, as they move heat rather than creating it. This makes them very 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 popular for its energy efficiency and nearly silent operation. This makes it ideal for craftsmen searching for a calm, comfy area to work. Since they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used all year round. 

As wood expands with shifts in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is very advantageous. Most carpenters and woodworkers recommend doing work in temperatures much like where the final item will live. 

Changing your filter consistently is a crucial part of upkeep. Using a saw creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t clean your mini-split’s filter, you might lower your system’s efficiency and lifetime. 

A mini-split also has to have frequent service from a certified HVAC specialist, like one from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help lower the likelihood of interruptions in comfort and may even help it run longer. 

Garage Heaters: Ideal for Northern Climates 

Garage heaters run a bit differently. They make hot air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a mini furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you need your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will eat up a part the overhead space. 

A key difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the kind of fuel they use, as mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both typical kinds, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to worry about fuel hookups. 

Garage heaters come with a perk that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t require a filter and some models have separate combustion chambers, which halts sawdust from infiltrating those internal parts. 

Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters 

In the end there are many things to think over, such as the climate in Fort Lauderdale. These involve: 

• Whether you need both heating and cooling, or just heating. 
• Your budget. 
• How much wall area you have in your garage. 
• How much time and money you want to devote to maintenance. 

Ductless mini-split systems cost more up front than garage heaters. If you won’t use your woodshop all the time, this may not be the smartest plan. But woodshops in climates with large shifts in temperature may benefit from enhanced control. 

Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly solution. Different models consume varying fuel sources to make heat only, making them bad for warmer areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are great if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may result in bigger utility bills. But the superior heat generation is recommended in northern climates. 

For dependable advice and installation, call the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll help you make the right choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your woodshop will be a useful area for years. Contact us at 954-736-4314 to schedule a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.