Comfy isn’t often a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering like woodworking. Thinking about changing your garage into a home woodshop? By installing heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to use the area throughout the year.
Standard systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often pricey due to the ductwork that’s required. Also, garages are often separate.
The two most frequently used options are garage heaters or mini-split systems, because they don’t have to have ductwork. But which system should you go with? It’s critical to know the benefits of each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust needs extra planning as these particles can fill up filters and reduce your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you select the ideal system for your budget.
Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, because they shift heat instead of making it. This makes them very energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and link to an outside 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 ideal for craftsmen needing a tranquil, comfortable area to work. As they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be run all year round.
Because wood shrinks with changes in temperature, total control over heating and cooling is extremely useful. Most carpenters and woodworkers suggest finishing woodworking in temperatures very close to where the final product will live.
Inspecting your filter frequently is a crucial component of service. Sanding creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t clean your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and life span.
A mini-split also requires frequent service from a professional HVAC specialist, like one from Knochelmann Service Experts. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help reduce the likelihood of interruptions in comfort and may even help it run for a greater period of time.
Garage Heaters: Ideal for Chilly Climates
Garage heaters run a bit differently. They create hot air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a little furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you turn to your garage for added storage, keep in mind that these heaters will take up a part the overhead space.
The main difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they need, as mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both typical models, but there are electric garage heaters as well if you don’t want to worry about fuel connections.
Garage heaters come with a feature that gives them a leg up on a mini-split system. They don’t require a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which keeps sawdust from reaching those internal parts.
Key Differences Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the end there are lots of things to consider, including the climate in Sharonville. These involve:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much ceiling room you have in your woodshop.
- How much time and money you want to spend on upkeep.
Ductless mini-split systems cost more to begin with than garage heaters. If you won’t need your woodshop all the time, this may not be the smartest plan. But woodshops in locations with large adjustments in weather may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly option. Different models use varying fuel sources to create 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 routine use may result in higher utility expenses. But the superior heat generation is recommended in cooler areas.
For dependable advice and installation, call the HVAC Experts at Knochelmann Service Experts. We’ll help you make the right choice. And with quality repair and maintenance services, your woodshop will be a productive space for many years to come. Give us a call at 859-905-0834 to schedule a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.