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

Comfy isn’t typically a word used to describe a garage. But many homeowners take full advantage of this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering like woodworking. Considering transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll have the option use the area all year.

Standard systems, including a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often expensive due to the ductwork that’s required. Also, garages are frequently separate.

The two most popular styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t have to have ductwork. But which system should you go with? It’s important to know the benefits of each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your situation. Sawdust requires additional consideration because these particles can fill up filters and lower your system’s efficiency.

We break down the differences to help you select the best solution for your needs.

Mini-Splits: Top Marks for Heating and Cooling

Ductless mini-splits are similar to a heat pump, because they shift heat rather than making it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re placed on your wall and link to an outside unit via a small hole in the wall.

A mini-split air conditioner is popular for its energy efficiency and nearly noiseless operation. This makes it great for craftsmen needing a calm, comfortable space to work. As they offer both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used all year round.

As wood contracts with adjustments in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is highly advantageous. Most carpenters and woodworkers recommend completing work in temperatures similar to where the completed item will live.

Checking your filter often is a crucial part of upkeep. Cutting generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t keep up with your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and life span.

A mini-split also needs routine tune-ups from a certified HVAC tech, like one from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Keeping its internal components clean and lubricated will help reduce the likelihood of repairs and might even help it run longer.

Garage Heaters: Best for Northern Climates

Garage heaters operate a bit differently. They create hot air, so it’s ideal to compare one to a little furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you need your garage for added storage, keep in mind that these heaters will require a part the overhead space.

The biggest difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the fuel type, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both standard kinds, but there are electric garage heaters also if you don’t want to bother with fuel connections.

Garage heaters come with a plus that makes them slightly better than a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which keeps sawdust from getting into those internal parts.

Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters

In the end there are lots of things to consider, like the temperatures in the U.S.. These involve:

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

• • Your budget.

• • How much overhead area you have in your woodshop.

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

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 option. But woodshops in areas with wide shifts in temps may benefit from more precise control.

Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable choice. Different models consume different fuel sources to make heat only, making them not a good choice for warmer climates. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may lead to more expensive utility expenses. But the excellent heat generation is preferable in colder areas.

For skilled advice and installation, go with the HVAC Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with quality repair and maintenance services, your shop will be a useful space for many years to come. Contact us at 866-397-3787 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.