Comfy isn’t often a word used to describe a garage. But many homeowners maximize this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes like woodworking. Thinking about transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll be able to enjoy the garage all year.
Common systems, including a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are usually expensive because of the ductwork that’s required. Not to mention, garages are frequently not connected to your home.
The two most popular solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t have to have ductwork. But which type should you choose? It’s critical to be informed about each to choose the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust needs additional consideration because these particles can fill up filters and decrease your system’s efficiency.
We go over the differences to help you select the right system for your shop.
Mini-Splits: Best for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, since they shift heat rather than making it. This makes them very energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and join to an outside unit by a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is loved for its energy efficiency and nearly noiseless operation. This makes it good for craftsmen searching for a calm, cozy location to work. Because they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated throughout the year.
Because wood contracts with adjustments in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is highly useful. Most carpenters and woodworkers advise finishing woodworking in temperatures similar to where the final product will live.
Checking your filter consistently is a crucial part of service. Using a saw generates 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 regular tune-ups from a certified HVAC tech, like one from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help decrease the probability of breakdowns and might even help it work longer.
Garage Heaters: Best for Northern Climates
Garage heaters operate a little differently. They make heat, so it’s ideal to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re mounted on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you turn to your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will require a part the overhead space.
A key difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they need, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common types, but there are electric garage heaters as well if you don’t want to worry about fuel hookups.
Garage heaters come with a bonus that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t have to have a filter and some models have sealed combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from infiltrating those internal pieces.
Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the long run there are lots of things to consider, such as the temperatures in Ocala. These include:
- Whether you need both heating and cooling, or merely heating.
- Your budget.
- How much ceiling area you have in your shop.
- How much time and money you want to devote to maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems cost more to begin with than garage heaters. If you won’t need your shop often, this may not be the most budget-friendly solution. But woodshops in climates with wide shifts in temps may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly choice. Different models consume different fuel sources to create heat only, making them ill-suited for warmer areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are great if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so regular use may create higher utility bills. But the superior heat generation is preferable in cooler locations.
For experienced advice and installation, trust the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with outstanding repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a productive area for many years to come. Contact us at 352-414-4006 to book a free home comfort assessment or appointment now.