Ac in the garage

Having an AC in your garage can be a smart decision, especially during hot and humid summers. For many people, the garage is not just a place to store cars and tools but also serves as an additional space for activities or even as a temporary workspace. However, there are several important things to consider before deciding to install an AC in your garage.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that garages are generally not as well insulated as the interior of a home. This means that while an AC may make the air feel more comfortable inside the garage, the cooling efficiency may not be as optimal as in other indoor spaces. Additionally, there are other considerations such as the size of the garage, its layout, and the need for additional electrical requirements that should be taken into account before making this decision.

In this article, I will explore various aspects related to having an AC in the garage, including its benefits, considerations to think about before installation, and tips for maximizing the efficiency and benefits of the cooling system. Let’s start by understanding why having an AC in the garage can be a valuable asset to your home.

Having an air conditioner (AC) in your garage can be quite beneficial. Let’s explore why:

Comfort and Heat Reduction

During hot weather, an AC provides relief, making your garage a more pleasant space to work or spend time in. It also helps reduce the overall heat in your house by keeping the garage cooler, preventing excess heat from seeping into adjacent rooms.

Preservation of Items

Garages often house items like paint, mechanic tools, and glues. These materials don’t handle extreme heat well. A cool garage helps prolong the lifespan of such items, ensuring they remain usable for longer periods.

Regulation of VOCs

High temperatures can cause Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) to evaporate more easily, leading to unpleasant smells and potential health risks. An AC can help regulate the temperature and keep VOCs in check, creating a healthier environment.

Car Maintenance

Storing your car in the garage exposes it to extreme heat, which can speed up rusting and damage the paint and other essential components. Keeping your car in a cooler environment provided by an AC is beneficial for its longevity.

Steps Before Installing an AC

Before installing an AC, consider these steps:

• Check for holes and insulate the garage properly.
• Ensure proper ventilation to maintain efficient cooling.
• Determine the appropriate cooling capacity (measured in BTUs) based on your garage size.

Types of Air Conditioners

There are several types of air conditioners suitable for garages:

• Garage ductless mini-split AC: Ideal for larger garages, these systems provide efficient cooling without extensive ductwork.
• Portable AC units: Suitable for smaller garages, these units are easy to move around and install.
• Window AC units: If your garage has suitable windows, a window AC unit can be a good choice.

Here are some top-rated garage air conditioners that you might consider:

• Best Overall: Senville LETO 24,000 BTU Mini Split Air ConditionerThis mini-split AC is efficient, reliable, and designed to perform well even in rigorous heat conditions.

  

  Senville LETO 24,000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner

• Best Bang for the Buck: LG 14,000 BTU Smart Window Air ConditionerOffers a balance of cooling power and affordability. Plus, it’s smart-enabled for added convenience.

  

  LG 14,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner

• Best for Small Garages: LG 11,800 BTU Through-the-Wall Air ConditionerIdeal for compact spaces, this through-the-wall unit provides effective cooling.

  

  LG 11,800 BTU ThroughtheWall Air Conditioner

• Best for Large Garages: Cooper & Hunter Sophia 36,000 BTU Air ConditionerIf you have a spacious garage, this powerful unit can handle the cooling demands.

  

  Cooper & Hunter Sophia 36,000 BTU Air Conditioner

• Best for Efficiency: GE Profile 10,100 BTU Smart Window Air ConditionerSmart features, energy efficiency, and reliable cooling make this a great choice.

  

  GE Profile 10,100 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner

• Best for DIY Installation: Keystone 14,000 BTU Through-the-Wall Air ConditionerEasy to install and suitable for medium-sized garages.

  

  Keystone 14,000 BTU ThroughtheWall Air Conditioner

• Best for Portability: Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Portable Air ConditionerIf you need flexibility, this portable AC can be moved around as needed.

  

  Whynter ARC14S 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Conclusion

Installing an air conditioner in your garage is a practical choice that offers numerous benefits, from comfort and heat reduction to preserving items and maintaining a healthier environment. By taking the necessary steps before installation and choosing the right type of AC, you can create a cooler and more enjoyable space in your garage.