Comfortable isn’t usually a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners take full advantage of this location as a workshop for home improvement projects or tinkering like woodworking. Mulling using your garage for a home woodshop? By having heating and cooling, you’ll be able to utilize the garage throughout the year.
Traditional systems, such as a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are usually pricey because of the ductwork that’s necessary. Also, garages are sometimes not connected to your home.
The two most popular solutions are garage heaters or mini-split systems, since they don’t have to have ductwork. But which kind should you choose? It’s important to be aware of each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your needs. Sawdust requires extra consideration because these particles can fill up filters and lower your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you select the ideal system for your shop.
Mini-Splits: Best for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are like a heat pump, because they shift heat instead of making it. This makes them extremely energy efficient. They’re mounted on your wall and connect to an outdoor unit by 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 looking for a calm, comfortable location to work. As they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be used throughout the year.
As wood contracts with shifts in temperature, complete control over heating and cooling is highly advantageous. Many carpenters and woodworkers recommend doing projects in temperatures very close to where the finished item will end up.
Changing your filter often is an essential part of upkeep. Cutting generates a lot of sawdust. If you don’t change your mini-split’s filter, you risk reducing your system’s efficiency and longevity.
A mini-split also requires regular service from a certified HVAC tech, like one from Stark Services. Keeping its internal components clean and lubricated will help decrease the probability of interruptions in comfort and might even help it last for a greater period of time.
Garage Heaters: Ideal for Northern Climates
Garage heaters run a bit differently. They make hot air, so it’s better to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re mounted on the ceiling, usually in a corner. If you rely on your garage for extra storage, consider the fact that these heaters will take up a portion the overhead room.
A key 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 standard types, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to worry about fuel hookups.
Garage heaters come with a perk 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 infiltrating those internal parts.
Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
In the long run there are a lot of things to consider, including the climate in Fort Worth. These involve:
- Whether you need 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 tune-ups.
Ductless mini-split systems are more expensive up front than garage heaters. If you won’t need your garage often, this may not be the most cost-effective plan. But woodshops in climates with major shifts in temps may benefit from enhanced control.
Garage heaters are a simpler, more affordable option. Different models use different fuel sources to generate heat only, making them bad for warm weather. Gas or propane garage heaters are best if fuel costs are low. They’re not as energy efficient, so routine use may create more expensive utility costs. But the excellent heat generation is desired in colder locations.
For professional advice and installation, call the HVAC Experts at Stark Services. We’ll help you make the ideal choice. And with excellent repair and maintenance services, your garage will be a useful location for many years to come. Contact us at 817-668-6689 to request a free home comfort assessment or appointment now.