Mini-Splits vs. Garage Heaters: What’s Best for My Woodshop?

Comfortable isn’t often a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners take full advantage of this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or hobbies like woodworking. Mulling changing your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll have the option use the garage all year.

Traditional systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often cost-prohibitive due to the ductwork that’s necessary. Plus, garages are often detached.

The two most frequently installed solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, because they don’t have to have ductwork. But which system should you choose? It’s critical to be informed about each to choose the most energy-efficient solution for your situation. Sawdust requires special consideration because these particles can bog down filters and lower your system’s efficiency.

We break down the differences to help you choose the right system for your budget.

Mini-Splits: Best for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, as they shift heat in place of making it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and link to an outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.

A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and nearly silent operation. This makes it good for craftsmen looking for a calm, comfy area to work. As they provide both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used throughout the year.

As wood contracts with adjustments in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is extremely useful. Many carpenters and woodworkers recommend doing woodworking in temperatures much like where the finished creation will live.

Changing your filter frequently is an essential piece of service. Using a saw creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t keep up with your mini-split’s filter, you risk reducing your system’s efficiency and life span.

A mini-split also requires routine upkeep from a experienced HVAC technician, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help lower the probability of malfunctions and may even help it run longer.

Garage Heaters: Great for Northern Climates

Garage heaters run a bit differently. They create hot air, so it’s best to compare one to a mini furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, typically in a corner. If you need your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will require a part the overhead room.

The biggest difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the kind of fuel they use, as mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common types, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to worry about fuel hookups.

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 separate combustion chambers, which halts sawdust from reaching those internal components.

Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

In the end there are many things to think over, like the weather in the U.S.. These include:

• • Whether you are looking for both heating and cooling, or only heating.

• • Your budget.

• • How much wall area you have in your shop.

• • How much time and money you want to dedicate to maintenance.

Ductless mini-split systems cost more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t use your shop often, this may not be the most cost-effective plan. But woodshops in areas with big changes in temps may benefit from enhanced control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable option. Different models utilize differing fuel sources to generate heat only, making them not a good choice for warm climates. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so frequent use may lead to more expensive utility bills. But the great heat generation is recommended in cooler areas.

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