Cozy isn’t often a word used to describe a garage. But many homeowners maximize this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes including woodworking. Mulling changing your garage into a home woodshop? By installing heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to enjoy the space year-round.
Traditional systems, including a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically cost-prohibitive because of the ductwork that’s required. Also, garages are often not connected to your home.
The two most frequently installed solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t need ductwork. But which type should you select? It’s important to know the benefits of each to select the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust needs special planning because these particles can fill up filters and reduce your system’s efficiency.
We go over the differences to help you select the ideal system for your needs.
Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, as they transfer heat rather than generating it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re installed on your wall and join to an outside unit by a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is popular for its energy efficiency and nearly silent operation. This makes it great for craftsmen searching for a tranquil, cozy location to work. Because they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be run no matter the season.
Since wood contracts with changes in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is extremely beneficial. Most carpenters and woodworkers advise finishing projects in temperatures very close to where the completed product will be used.
Checking your filter consistently is a crucial piece of service. Cutting kicks up a lot of sawdust. If you don’t keep up with your mini-split’s filter, you risk reducing your system’s efficiency and lifetime.
A mini-split also needs regular upkeep from a professional HVAC technician, like one from McKinley Heating Service Experts. Keeping its internal pieces clean and lubricated will help lower the probability of breakdowns and could even help it run for an extended period of time.
Garage Heaters: Best for Chilly Climates
Garage heaters operate a bit differently. They make heated air, so it’s best to compare one to a little furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you need your garage for extra storage, consider the fact that these heaters will require a part the overhead area.
A key 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 standard types, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to add fuel hookups.
Garage heaters include a perk that gives them a leg up on a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have closed 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, including the weather in Edmonton. These include:
- Whether you need both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much wall room you have in your woodshop.
- How much time and money you want to spend on maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems run more up front than garage heaters. If you don’t plan on using your shop frequently, this may not be the most cost-effective option. But woodshops in areas with major changes in temperature may benefit from better control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly solution. Different models utilize different fuel sources to create heat only, making them ill-suited for warm climates. Gas or propane garage heaters are ideal if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so frequent use may create higher utility expenses. But the great heat generation is recommended in colder areas.
For trustworthy advice and installation, turn to the HVAC Experts at McKinley Heating Service Experts. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your woodshop will be a useful space for a long time. Reach us at 780-800-7092 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment now.