Heated Garage Options
The cold winter months can really push one to consider installing heating in their garage. Whether it is simply because you want to stay warm while getting into your car, a heated space to work in, or even an additional location intended for living or entertainment purposes.
There are multiple things to consider when comparing heating units and when preparing your garage for installation. Choosing your form of heating is not a one size fits all solution and will require some research and planning. House of Three can always provide further insight into heated garage options!
Things to Consider
When choosing your form of heating, there are different factors that you must put into consideration when exploring options. To start, measure your garage and understand the different costs that may be associated with heating a larger vs a smaller unit. Some heating options will be more successful in a larger garage while other options are better in a smaller unit.
Secondly, you must consider the type of garage you have. Is it attached or detached? Could either form cause issues for methods of heating, such as current ventilation, fire hazards, or additional work such as adding ducts?
A third thing to consider is what do you use your garage for? Is it a storage unit, used for parking your cars, is it an additional residential unit, or simply somewhere where you would like to entertain guests? The type of use and the frequency of use should be looked into. This way you can determine which option best suits your lifestyle, is best for you in the long-term, as well as upfront costs. Other things to consider would be whether your garage is weatherproofed or not. Is there a possibility that the heat will leak out from the entryways or the windows? Is there an opportunity for moisture to enter your garage? Is your garage already insulated or do you need to add insulation?
Heating Options
Since garages are typically enclosed spaces, it’s immensely important to understand the safety risks associated with certain types of heating units. While it is possible, it is not recommended to use options that circulate air with living spaces such as forced air gas furnaces. This is because there is an increased risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. There are other options out there that are far safer for use.
In-Floor Heating
In-floor heating is an excellent option when looking into garage heating methods. In-floor heating offers cheaper long-term costs with high longevity; however, the initial pricing can be costly. Additionally, in-floor heating offers many excellent positives such as consistent and even heating across the entire garage, quiet, and aesthetically pleasing as the coils will not be visible.
Since the heating coils or piping is located within the floor, the floor height may increase from its current level. In-floor heating is a great option for stand-alone detached garages that are used as a workshop, for entertainment, or for additional living. They are also great to consider keeping your cars free from the cold.
Forced Air System
A forced air system is an option to keep in mind if not shared with living spaces; however, there are drawbacks to consider depending on what your garage is used for. A circulatory system may not be great if there is not effective ventilation in your garage. This is because it can push around fumes from your vehicle, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning.
They may also not be a great option to consider if you are someone with allergies, or if you are using your garage as a work space. This is because the forced air system can push around dust, dirt and debris. If you are using your garage for entertainment or living purposes, forced air can be slightly noisy. In a smaller enclosed space, this may cause issues. One key bonus to a forced air system is initial affordability. If you have a tight budget, it is a heating method to consider; however, safer options should always be considered first.
Electric Baseboard Heating
Electric baseboard heating is an option that can be considered, especially if the garage will have ample space for the unit and some extra space around the unit. Leaving space around the unit is essential to ensure that there are no potential fire hazards. This may not be the best option for a garage that is used primarily for storage or as a workshop, as there will likely be a large amount of items placed along the walls, like shelving units, or debris that is combustible, like saw dust.
Additionally, if there will be a presence of water near the heating unit, that may be a concern as it can affect the functionality of the heating unit. For example, water can appear where there is ample buildup of snow on a vehicle that melts onto the floor.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are an excellent option to add to a garage unit. Some heat pump units can also contain an air conditioning system; these units would be called a mini-split pump. Heat pump systems can be quite cost effective, but they will review some adjustments to the inside and outside areas of your garage. This is because they will require an indoor head with an outdoor condenser. This will also require some adjustments to your garage walls as the heating unit will require these two systems to be attached in some way.
While there are adjustments required, the process to do this can be completed by someone who has professional experience. Heat pumps work best in a garage that is insulated, so they are excellent for a location that already has insulation or this now may be something else to consider installing.
There are plenty of options that can be considered when looking into heating your garage. But, in order to choose the best option for you, research and planning must be done. Garages can be excellent locations to fill your storage, parking, living, or entertainment needs. Need expert guidance? Contact House of Three today!