Cozy isn’t usually a word used to talk about a garage. But many homeowners take full advantage of this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or hobbies including woodworking. Considering transforming your garage into a home woodshop? By installing heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to use the space throughout the year.
Traditional systems, including a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often cost-prohibitive since there’s ductwork that’s necessary. Also, garages are frequently separate.
The two most popular styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t require ductwork. But which kind should you select? It’s important to know the benefits of each to choose the most energy-efficient solution for your woodshop. Sawdust needs additional planning since these particles can clog filters and lower your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you select the right system for your budget.
Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, as they transfer heat in place of generating it. This makes them extremely 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 ideal for craftsmen needing a tranquil, cozy space to work. As they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated no matter the season.
Since wood expands with shifts in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is highly beneficial. A lot of carpenters and woodworkers suggest finishing projects in temperatures very close to where the completed product will be used.
Checking your filter consistently is a critical component of upkeep. Using a saw generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t clean your mini-split’s filter, you might lower your system’s efficiency and life span.
A mini-split also has to have routine tune-ups from a certified HVAC technician, like one from Gordon's Service Experts. Keeping its internal parts clean and lubricated will help decrease the probability of interruptions in comfort and may even help it run for an extended period of time.
Garage Heaters: Ideal for Cold Climates
Garage heaters operate a bit differently. They create heat, so it’s better to compare one to a mini furnace. They’re installed on the ceiling, typically in a corner. If you turn to your garage for added storage, consider the fact that these heaters will eat up some of the overhead room.
The main difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the kind of fuel they use, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both typical models, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to add fuel hookups.
Garage heaters include a perk that makes them advantageous over a mini-split system. They don’t have to have a filter and some models have closed combustion chambers, which halts sawdust from getting into those internal pieces.
Key Differences Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the end there are a lot of things to consider, such as the weather in Oklahoma City. These include:
- Whether you need both heating and cooling, or only heating.
- Your budget.
- How much wall area you have in your garage.
- How much time and money you want to spend on maintenance.
Ductless mini-split systems cost more up front than garage heaters. If you won’t use your shop often, this may not be the smartest option. But woodshops in areas with large shifts in weather may benefit from more precise control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more reasonably priced solution. Different models use differing fuel sources to generate heat only, making them ill-suited for hotter weather. Gas or propane garage heaters are great if fuel costs are more reasonable. They’re not as energy efficient, so frequent use may result in higher utility expenses. But the great heat generation is desired in colder locations.
For experienced advice and installation, turn to the HVAC Experts at Gordon's Service Experts. We’ll help you make the right choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your garage will be a productive location for a long time. Contact us at 405-432-2197 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment today.