Know How to Air Condition a Garage? We Can Help
Know How to Air Condition a Garage? We Can Help
You may be one of the many people in the Southeast U.S. who uses their garage as a workshop as much as a place to park your car. Typically, garages are not insulated and can become stifling hot and uncomfortable. Adding an air conditioner may be the perfect solution.
How to Air Condition a Garage:
- Window units:
- Very economical choice
- Great for occasional cooling or smaller spaces
- Portable air conditioners:
- Versatile and relatively inexpensive
- On wheels to enable placement where needed
- Often very noisy
How to Air Condition a Garage Using a Window Unit:
- The size of the needed unit is determined by the square footage of the garage. Start with the premise that a 500-square foot garage will require a 12,000 BTU air conditioner.
- Know the required BTUs and the measurements of the window before purchasing any unit, and be sure electricity is available.
- Use strips of insulation, wood and/or caulk to seal around the unit.
How to Air Condition a Garage Using a Portable Unit:
- Portable air conditioners are not typically the best option for cooling a garage.
- Depending on the garage size and the heat load, portable units may constantly cycle on and off in an attempt to lower the garage temperature. This on/off action may greatly reduce the life of the unit’s compressor.
- Portable air conditioners should be vented outside to disperse the heated air. This can be accomplished through a window or a hole cut into the side of the garage for the exhaust hose.
How to Air Condition a Garage Using Other Options:
- Wall mount air conditioners:
- Good choice for garages without windows
- Necessary to cut opening through exterior wall
- Appropriate for larger garages
- Evaporative “Swamp” coolers:
- Require a water source
- Warm air is pulled through damp pads which cool the air
- Cooled, moist air is blown into the garage
- Advantage of operating on standard 120-volt electricity
