Cozy isn’t often a word used to describe a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering including woodworking. Considering transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to use the area all year.
Common systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are usually pricey due to the ductwork that’s necessary. Also, garages are frequently not connected to your home.
The two most popular options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, because they don’t have to have ductwork. But which system should you select? It’s important to be informed about each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your situation. Sawdust needs additional thought as these particles can clog filters and decrease your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you pick the ideal option for your shop.
Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, as they transfer heat rather than making it. This makes them very energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and connect to an outdoor unit with a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and nearly noiseless operation. This makes it good for craftsmen needing a tranquil, cozy area to work. Because they provide both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used all year round.
Because wood shrinks with shifts in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is extremely advantageous. Many carpenters and woodworkers advise doing projects in temperatures very close to where the final item will live.
Inspecting your filter often is an important component of upkeep. Cutting generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you risk reducing your system’s efficiency and life span.
A mini-split also needs routine service from a certified HVAC technician, like one from Niagara Home Services by Enercare. Keeping its internal components clean and lubricated will help reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and may even help it last longer.
Garage Heaters: Best for Cold Climates
Garage heaters work a little differently. They create heated air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a small furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you turn to your garage for extra storage, keep in mind that these heaters will require some of the overhead area.
The biggest difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they run on, because 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 add fuel sources.
Garage heaters include a plus 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 getting into those internal parts.
Key Differences Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the long run there are lots of things to think over, such as the climate in Niagara Falls. These include:
- Whether you are looking for both heating and cooling, or only heating.
- Your budget.
- How much overhead area you have in your garage.
- How much time and money you want to devote to service.
Ductless mini-split systems cost more up front than garage heaters. If you won’t need your woodshop all the time, this may not be the smartest solution. But woodshops in climates with large changes in temperature may benefit from enhanced control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly option. Different models use different fuel sources to generate heat only, making them not a good choice for warm weather. Gas or propane garage heaters are ideal if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so frequent use may result in more expensive utility costs. But the excellent heat generation is recommended in colder climates.
For dependable advice and installation, trust the HVAC Experts at Niagara Home Services by Enercare. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your woodshop will be a useful location for a long time. Contact us at 289-273-2229 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.