Whats Best For My Woodshop, a Mini-Split or Garage Heater?
2Cozy isn’t typically a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes such as woodworking. Mulling using your garage for a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to enjoy the area throughout the year.
Common systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically pricey since there’s ductwork that’s necessary. Plus, garages are frequently detached.
The two most popular styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, because they don’t need ductwork. But which kind should you select? It’s critical to be aware of each to select the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust needs special planning since these particles can fill up filters and reduce your system’s efficiency.
We go over the differences to help you select the best solution for your shop.
Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, because they move heat in place of making it. This makes them highly energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and join to an exterior unit via a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is popular for its energy efficiency and quiet operation. This makes it great for craftsmen needing a relaxing, cozy location to work. Since they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated all year round.
Since wood expands with adjustments in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is extremely beneficial. Many carpenters and woodworkers recommend doing woodworking in temperatures much like where the completed product will live.
Checking your filter consistently is an important part of maintenance. Sanding generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t clean your mini-split’s filter, you risk reducing your system’s efficiency and lifetime.
A mini-split also requires regular upkeep from a certified HVAC tech, like one from Fras-Air/General Service Experts. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help decrease the chance of malfunctions and might even help it last for a greater period of time.
Garage Heaters: Ideal for Cold Climates
Garage heaters operate slightly differently. They create warmth, so it’s ideal to compare one to a mini furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you turn to your garage for additional storage, keep in mind that these heaters will require a portion the overhead space.
A key difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the fuel type, as mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common models, but there are electric garage heaters as well if you don’t want to bother with fuel hookups.
Garage heaters have a perk that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t require a filter and some models have sealed combustion chambers, which halts sawdust from reaching those internal parts.
Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
Ultimately there are many things to think over, including the climate in Hillsborough. These involve:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much ceiling space you have in your garage.
- How much time and money you want to dedicate to upkeep.
Ductless mini-split systems run more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t use your shop frequently, this may not be the most budget-friendly plan. But woodshops in areas with major changes in temperature may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced solution. Different models consume varying fuel sources to make heat only, making them ill-suited for warm areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are more reasonable. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may lead to more expensive utility bills. But the superior heat generation is recommended in cooler areas.
For professional advice and installation, call the HVAC Experts at Fras-Air/General Service Experts. We’ll help you make the right choice. And with outstanding repair and maintenance services, your woodshop will be a relaxing location for many years to come. Reach us at 908-448-2154 to schedule a free home comfort assessment or appointment now.
