Cozy isn’t typically a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners maximize this space as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes such as woodworking. Mulling transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll have the option enjoy the garage all year.
Traditional systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are typically cost-prohibitive since there’s ductwork that’s necessary. Also, garages are often separate.
The two most popular styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, since they don’t require ductwork. But which system should you go with? It’s critical to know the benefits of each to select the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust demands special thought because these particles can bog down filters and reduce your system’s efficiency.
We go over the differences to help you pick the best solution for your shop.
Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, since they transfer heat instead of creating it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re installed on your wall and link to an exterior unit with a small hole in the wall.
A mini-split air conditioner is prized for its energy efficiency and nearly noiseless operation. This makes it ideal for craftsmen searching for a relaxing, comfortable location to work. Since they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be run throughout the year.
Because wood contracts with changes in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is extremely useful. Many carpenters and woodworkers suggest finishing projects in temperatures very close to where the final item will end up.
Inspecting your filter frequently is an essential component of service. Sanding creates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you may decrease your system’s efficiency and life span.
A mini-split also has to have routine upkeep from a experienced HVAC tech, like one from Eveready Service Experts . Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help reduce the chance of malfunctions and could even help it work for a greater period of time.
Garage Heaters: Great for Cold Climates
Garage heaters work a bit differently. They make 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 rely on your garage for extra storage, know that these heaters will eat up a portion the overhead area.
The main difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they run on, because mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common models, but there are electric garage heaters as well if you don’t want to bother with fuel hookups.
Garage heaters come with a bonus 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 stops sawdust from infiltrating those internal components.
Key Distinctions Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
Ultimately there are a lot of things to consider, like the climate in Richmond. These include:
- Whether you are looking for both heating and cooling, or just heating.
- Your budget.
- How much wall area you have in your garage.
- How much time and money you want to dedicate to service.
Ductless mini-split systems are more expensive to begin with than garage heaters. If you won’t use your garage frequently, this may not be the smartest option. But woodshops in locations with big changes in weather may benefit from more precise control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, budget-friendly option. Different models use varying fuel sources to generate heat only, making them ill-suited for warmer areas. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are smaller. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may result in more expensive utility expenses. But the great heat generation is desired in cooler locations.
For professional advice and installation, call the HVAC Experts at Eveready Service Experts . We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with outstanding repair and maintenance services, your woodshop will be a relaxing space for many years to come. Give us a call at 804-548-4480 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.