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

Comfortable isn’t usually a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners maximize this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes like woodworking. Mulling changing your garage into a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll be able to use the space year-round.

Standard systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically expensive because of the ductwork that’s needed. Not to mention, garages are often detached.

The two most frequently used options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, because they don’t require ductwork. But which system should you choose? It’s essential to be informed about each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust needs additional thought since these particles can bog down filters and decrease your system’s efficiency.

We go over the differences to help you pick the ideal system for your budget.

Mini-Splits: Best for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, since they move heat rather than generating it. This makes them very energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and connect to an exterior unit with a small hole in the wall.

A mini-split air conditioner is loved for its energy efficiency and nearly noiseless operation. This makes it great for craftsmen looking for a relaxing, cozy area to work. Since they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be run all year round.

Since wood expands with shifts in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is extremely useful. Most carpenters and woodworkers advise doing work in temperatures very close to where the completed product will live.

Changing your filter frequently is an essential piece of maintenance. Sanding creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t keep up with your mini-split’s filter, you might lower your system’s efficiency and life span.

A mini-split also needs regular service from a professional HVAC specialist, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help reduce the likelihood of malfunctions and might even help it last longer.

Garage Heaters: Ideal for Cold Climates

Garage heaters work a bit differently. They make warmth, so it’s ideal to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re mounted on the ceiling, typically in a corner. If you need your garage for additional storage, consider the fact that these heaters will eat up a part the overhead area.

The biggest 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 typical types, but there are electric garage heaters also if you don’t want to bother with fuel sources.

Garage heaters come with a bonus that gives them a leg up on a mini-split system. They don’t have to have a filter and some models have sealed combustion chambers, which keeps sawdust from getting into those internal components.

Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

In the end there are a lot of things to keep in mind, including the temperatures in the U.S.. These encompass:

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

• • Your budget.

• • How much wall space you have in your garage.

• • How much time and money you want to spend on service.

Ductless mini-split systems run more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t use your shop all the time, this may not be the most cost-effective option. But woodshops in areas with big adjustments in weather may benefit from enhanced control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable solution. Different models use differing fuel sources to create heat only, making them not a good choice for hotter areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are more reasonable. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may create more expensive utility bills. But the excellent heat generation is recommended in cooler climates.

For dependable advice and installation, trust the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your garage will be a useful location for a long time. Reach us at 866-397-3787 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.