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What Size Mini Split for 2-Car Garage

What Size Mini Split for 2-Car Garage

Jon Hubal
5 minute read

You have chosen to install a new mini split to make your 2-car garage pleasant all year long. Clever move. A mini-split is an excellent option for heating and cooling structures like garages, workshops, or sheds. But how do you pick the best size for your requirements when so many BTU ratings, efficiency levels, and brand alternatives are available? Let The Trade Table tell you what mini split you need for your 2-car garage. 

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How to Calculate the Right Mini Split Size for a 2-Car Garage

To properly size a mini-split for heating and cooling a 2-car garage, you’ll need to determine the square footage of your garage and consider factors like insulation and usage.

Calculate the Square Footage

●      Measure the length and width of your garage in feet and multiply to get the total square footage. For example, a garage that is 20 feet wide by 22 feet long is 440 square feet (20 x 22 = 440).

Garage Type

Standard Size(wide x deep

Square Feet

1 car garage

12×20 feet

240 sq ft

1 car garage

12×22 feet

264 sq ft

1 car garage

14×24 feet

336 sq ft

1 car garage

16×24 feet

384 sq ft

1 car garage

18×20 feet

360 sq ft

2 car garage

20×20 feet

400 sq ft

2 car garage

20×22 feet

440 sq ft

2 car garage

20×24 feet

480 sq ft

2 car garage

22×22 feet

484 sq ft

2 car garage

22×24 feet

528 sq ft

3 car garage

31×20 feet

620 sq ft

3 car garage

32×22 feet

704 sq ft

3 car garage

34×24 feet

816 sq ft

4 car garage

40×22 feet

880 sq ft

4 car garage

38×26 feet

988 sq ft

4 car garage

40×30 feet

1,200 sq ft

 

Garage Square Feet

Garage Type

Mini Split Heating BTU

200 sq ft

1 car garage

9,000 btu

300 sq ft

1 car garage

13,000-14,000 btu

400 sq ft

1 car garage,2 car garage

18,000 btu

500 sq ft

2 car garage

22,000-23,000 btu

600 sq ft

3 car garage

28,000 btu

700 sq ft

3 car garage

32,000 btu

800 sq ft

3 car garage

36,000 btu

900 sq ft

4 car garage

38,000 btu

1,000 sq ft

4 car garage

40,000 btu

1,100 sq ft

4 car garage

50,000 btu

1,200 sq ft

4 car garage

60,000 btu

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Evaluate the Insulation

●      The amount of insulation impacts the size of the unit needed. If your garage is well-insulated, you can get by with a smaller unit. Little or no insulation means you'll want a larger unit to effectively control the temperature.

Consider How You'll Use the Space

●      How you use your garage also determines the right mini-split size. If you only need to take the edge off the temperature, a smaller unit will do. But if you use your garage as a workspace or recreation area, you'll want a larger unit that can adequately heat or cool the entire space.

Choose the Proper Size

●      For a typical 2-car garage (around 400 to 600 square feet), a mini-split in the 18,000 to 36,000 BTU range should work well for heating and cooling, depending on insulation and usage. It’s best to slightly oversize for maximum efficiency and comfort.

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Recommended BTU for a 2 Car Garage

A 2-car garage typically needs between 12,000 to 36,000 BTU to properly heat and cool the space. The specific size you need depends on several factors like your local climate, garage size, insulation, and how much temperature control you want.

Climate Considerations

●      If you live in a warmer southern climate, you'll want a unit with a higher BTU, around 36,000, to effectively cool your garage. Colder northern areas can get by with a smaller 18,000 or 23,000 BTU mini split. The unit will have to work harder to heat and cool a garage that's not well insulated, so factor that in as well.

Garage Size

●      A standard 2-car garage is around 400 to 600 square feet. For a smaller 400-square-foot garage, an 18,000 or 28,000 BTU unit should work nicely. Larger garages, 500 to 600 square feet, will perform better with a 23,000 BTU mini split. The mini split has to heat and cool the entire space, so make sure you get a unit rated for at least the square footage of your garage.

Temperature Control

●      Think about how much temperature control you want in your garage. If you only need to knock the chill off in the winter or take the edge off in the summer, a smaller unit will do. But if you want to fully heat and cool your garage for use as a workshop or entertainment space, go with a higher BTU model. A more powerful mini split will be able to quickly bring your garage to your ideal temperature and keep it there.

What Size Mini Split for 2-Car Garage

Now that you know the basics about mini split sizing for a garage, you're ready to choose the perfect system for your space. A larger unit may seem tempting for maximum cooling power but don't oversize. An oversized system won't run efficiently and you'll end up paying more to cool your garage. Measure your garage, determine the insulation and windows, and think about how you use the space. Then you can choose a properly sized unit for your needs. With the right mini split, you'll be enjoying a comfortable garage all summer long. Who knew staying cool could be so simple? Keep these tips in mind and you'll find a mini split that keeps your garage at the perfect temperature.

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