Mini-Splits vs. Garage Heaters: What’s Best for My Shop?
Comfy isn’t often a word used to reference a garage. But many homeowners make the most of this area as a workshop for home improvement projects or pastimes such as woodworking. Mulling using your garage for a home woodshop? By adding heating and cooling, you’ll have the ability to use the space all year.
Common systems, like a furnace, heat pump or air conditioner, are often pricey because of the ductwork that’s needed. Not to mention, garages are often not connected to your home.
The two most frequently used styles are garage heaters or mini-split systems, as they don’t have to have ductwork. But which type should you select? It’s essential to be informed about each to find the most energy-efficient solution for your situation. Sawdust requires extra planning because these particles can clog filters and lower your system’s efficiency.
We review the differences to help you select the ideal system for your shop.
Mini-Splits: Ideal for Heating and Cooling
Ductless mini-splits much like a heat pump, as they move heat rather than creating it. This makes them highly energy efficient. They’re installed on your wall and link to an outside 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 relaxing, cozy location to work. Because they deliver both heating and cooling, mini-splits can be operated throughout the year. Because wood expands with shifts in temperature, full control over heating and cooling is highly beneficial. Most carpenters and woodworkers suggest doing projects in temperatures much like where the completed item will be used. Changing your filter consistently is a crucial component of service. Sanding generates 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 has to have frequent service from a experienced HVAC tech, like one from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Keeping its internal components clean and lubricated will help lower the likelihood of breakdowns and may even help it last longer.Garage Heaters: Great for Chilly Climates
Garage heaters work a little differently. They generate heat, so it’s best to compare one to a miniature furnace. They’re fixed on the ceiling, often in a corner. If you turn to your garage for extra storage, consider the fact that these heaters will take up some of the overhead area. A key difference between garage heaters and mini-split systems is the type of fuel they need, since mini-splits are electric. Propane or natural gas garage heaters are both common types, but there are electric garage heaters too if you don’t want to bother with fuel connections. Garage heaters have a feature that makes them advantageous over a mini-split system. They don’t need a filter and some models have sealed combustion chambers, which halts sawdust from getting into those internal parts.Key Variations Between Mini-Splits and Garage Heaters
Ultimately there are lots of things to think over, including the climate in Calgary. These encompass:-
- Whether you are looking for both heating and cooling, or only heating.
-
- Your budget.
-
- How much wall room you have in your shop.
-
- How much time and money you want to spend on maintenance.