What Size Mini Split for Garage

Have you ever looked at how cold your garage gets in the winter and wished you had a mini-split system to keep it comfortable? It's not a crazy thought--many people install mini split systems in their garages, and there are plenty of advantages to consider if you're considering it. But before you make the plunge, be sure to understand what size of mini split you'll need.

Sizing Mini Split for Garage

When it comes to choosing the right size for your garage, several factors come into play. From square footage considerations to the type of insulation you have installed to climate-specific variables like humidity, these all have an impact on your choice. In this article, we'll dive into what size mini split is best for your garage—and why—so you can stay warm and comfortable all winter. If you want to get sizing you need quickly, go punch in the necessary information in our mini split sizing calculator. 

Calculating the Size of Your Garage Space

Now we know that certain factors determine the size of your garage mini-split, and it's time to dive into calculating what size you need for your space. You can always get a professional opinion from a contractor, but if you want to make the calculation yourselves, it's very easy what you need to do:

Measure The Area

The first step is to measure the area that needs cooling. That means measuring the length and width of each wall separately, then multiplying them together to get the total square footage. Once that's done, add up all the separate areas in your garage and record the number- this is your total area.

Calculate The BTUs Needed Per Square Foot

Once you have your total area, you can calculate the BTUs needed per square foot by multiplying the area by 20 (BTUs per cubic foot). This number will show you how much cooling power is needed for your garage space.

Mini Split for Garage Formula: 20 BTUs x Sq Ft

Choose Your System Size Based On BTU Output

What Size Mini Split You Need Per Garage

One-Car Garage

• Typically about 200-300 sq ft, we recommend a mini split with a BTU rating of about 4,000 to 6,000 BTU.

Two-Car Garage

• Typically about 400-600 sq ft. You should get a mini split with a BTU rating of about 8,000 to 12,000 BTU.

Three-Car Garage

• These are one of the bigger garages you'll find at about 600-900 sq ft. We recommend going big here with a mini split with a BTU rating of about 12,000 to 18,000 BTU.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mini Split for Garage

When deciding on a mini split for your garage, it's important to factor in several details that may influence the size of the unit you ultimately purchase. This will help ensure that your mini split has the power and efficiency to keep your garage temperature comfortable all year round.

The Size of the Garage

First, consider the size of your garage. If you have a small space, say 200 to 500 square feet, you may get away with a 9000 or 12000 BTU (British Thermal Unit) unit. If it's larger than that, then sizing up to a larger BTU unit may be necessary. The next step is to consider how many windows and doors your garage has since this can also impact how quickly the space heats up or cools down.

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Garage Activities 

Finally, consider what kind of activities you plan to do in the garage. Getting a small or medium-sized unit should do the trick if it's strictly for storage and occasional vehicle maintenance. But if you plan on using it for woodworking or welding, for example, then you want to opt for a larger one since it'll need more power to keep up with these strenuous activities.

Determine the Highest Possible Temperature

The first step is to determine what that highest possible temperature might be. The easiest way to do this is to check your area's average temperatures for both summer and winter. Next, you need to consider any potential heat sources in your garage, such as direct sunlight or a running car. Once you've determined the maximum temperature, you can use this number when calculating your BTU output requirements.

Benefits of Mini Splits in Garage

Want to get the most out of your garage space? Considering a mini split! Mini splits are a great way to keep your garage comfortable and efficient all year round. Not only do they help regulate temperature, but they also help filter out pollutants in the air and reduce humidity levels—making them ideal for any workspace or living area.

Enhanced Comfort, Energy Efficiency, and Quiet Operation

There are quite a few benefits to having a mini split installed in your garage. They're quieter than traditional HVAC systems since their components are located outside rather than inside the house. They also provide a more consistent climate—making it easier to keep your garage comfortable without constantly adjusting temperatures or switching between fans/air conditioners. Moreover, mini splits have improved energy efficiency compared to HVAC systems, allowing you to save money on heating/cooling bills in the long run.

Choosing the Right Size Mini Split for Your Garage

The best way to determine what size mini split to get for your garage is to take measurements, calculate the area of the space, and determine the BTUs needed. However, if you're unsure of how to do this on your own, you can always contact a certified HVAC technician to help you determine the best size mini split for your garage.

Size the Proper Size Mini Split for Garage

To get the most efficient and enjoy all the benefits a mini-split offers, it's important to get the right size. Otherwise, you could end up with a unit that's too large or too small, leading to issues like high energy bills or inadequate heating and cooling.

No matter what size mini split you choose, make sure it meets your needs and is installed properly. With the right mini split, your garage can be comfortable, energy efficient, and cost-effective.

More Mini Split Content

We have plenty of resources available to help you find the proper mini-split for your specific garage. Since most garages are around 1000 sq feet we recommend reading our article on sizing a mini split for 1000 sq ft. Maybe your garage is smaller, then check out how to size a mini split for 500 sq ft. Before you make the leap, you should learn about the cost of running a mini split, and how much electricity they pull.