Comfortable isn’t often a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this space as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering including woodworking. Thinking about changing your garage into a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll be able to enjoy the space year-round.
Standard systems, including a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often expensive since there’s ductwork that’s needed. Also, garages are sometimes detached.
The two most frequently used solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, since they don’t require ductwork. But which kind should you go with? It’s important to be aware of each to select the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust needs extra consideration as these particles can bog down filters and decrease your system’s efficiency.
We go over the differences to help you choose the right system for your needs.
Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, because they transfer heat instead of creating it. This makes them very energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and connect to an outside unit by a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is popular for its energy efficiency and quiet operation. This makes it good for craftsmen searching for a calm, comfortable location to work. Since they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated no matter the season.
Since wood contracts with adjustments in temperature, total control over heating and cooling is extremely useful. Most carpenters and woodworkers suggest doing projects in temperatures similar to where the finished product will end up.
Changing your filter frequently is a critical part of service. Using a saw creates 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 has to have regular upkeep from a professional HVAC tech, like one from TML Service Experts. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help reduce the probability of malfunctions and may even help it work longer.
Garage Heaters: Great for Chilly Climates
Garage heaters work slightly differently. They make warmth, so it’s better to compare one to a little furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you need your garage for added storage, know 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 typical types, but there are electric garage heaters also 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 have to have a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which stops sawdust from reaching those internal components.
Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
Ultimately there are lots of things to keep in mind, such as the temperatures in Boise. These involve:
- Whether you want both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much overhead space you have in your woodshop.
- How much time and money you want to dedicate to maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems run more at the start than garage heaters. If you won’t need your garage often, this may not be the most budget-friendly plan. But woodshops in areas with big shifts in weather may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable solution. Different models utilize different fuel sources to generate heat only, making them bad for warmer climates. Gas or propane garage heaters are great if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so frequent use may result in higher utility costs. But the superior heat generation is recommended in colder locations.
For knowledgeable advice and installation, call the HVAC Experts at TML Service Experts. We’ll help you make the best choice. And with outstanding repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a useful location for a long time. Contact us at 208-488-4892 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment right away.