Mini-Splits vs. Garage Heaters: What’s Ideal for My Shop?

Cozy isn’t usually a word used to describe a garage. But many homeowners maximize this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes such as woodworking. Thinking about changing your garage into a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to use the area all year.

Common systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically cost-prohibitive since there’s ductwork that’s needed. Plus, garages are frequently not connected to your home.

The two most frequently used styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t require ductwork. But which type should you select? It’s critical to be aware of each to choose the most energy-efficient solution for your situation. Sawdust requires additional planning because these particles can clog filters and lower your system’s efficiency.

We break down the differences to help you pick the right solution for your shop.

Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, as they transfer heat in place of generating it. This makes them very energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and connect to an exterior unit by a small hole in the wall.

A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and quiet operation. This makes it great for craftsmen searching for a relaxing, comfy space to work. Since they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated no matter the season.

As wood expands with shifts in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is very beneficial. Most carpenters and woodworkers advise completing projects in temperatures much like where the finished item will be used.

Checking your filter frequently is an essential part of upkeep. Sanding kicks up a lot of sawdust. If you don’t keep up with your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and lifetime.

A mini-split also has to have frequent service from a experienced HVAC specialist, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help lower the likelihood of interruptions in comfort and might even help it work for a greater period of time.

Garage Heaters: Great for Chilly Climates

Garage heaters work slightly differently. They create heated air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a little furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you need your garage for added 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 type of fuel they run on, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both standard types, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to bother with fuel connections.

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

Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

In the end there are many things to keep in mind, like the climate in the U.S.. These encompass:

• • Whether you need both heating and cooling, or only heating.

• • Your budget.

• • How much ceiling space you have in your shop.

• • How much time and money you want to devote to service.

Ductless mini-split systems cost more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t use your woodshop often, this may not be the most budget-friendly solution. But woodshops in climates with large changes in temperature may benefit from enhanced control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced solution. Different models utilize different fuel sources to create heat only, making them ill-suited for warmer weather. Gas or propane garage heaters are ideal if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so regular use may result in bigger utility expenses. But the excellent heat generation is preferable in cooler areas.

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