Finding the best AC units for garages can be challenging, especially when you live in Texas. Our summers are often unbearably hot, so selecting an air conditioning unit that provides sufficient cooling power is important. When a box fan just doesn’t keep you cool enough, turn to the Lex Air East Texas team.
At Lex East, we understand how confusing HVAC systems can be for most people. When searching for a new AC unit, you will find scoring information, measurements, and a lot of terminology you may not understand. Luckily, you don’t have to figure all this information out on your own. Our team can help.
Lex East provides professional and reliable air conditioning services in Tyler, TX and the surrounding areas. To consult with one of our air conditioning technicians or schedule an appointment for services, call (903) 833-9510.
Things to Look For in a Garage Air Conditioner in East Texas
It may be tempting to rush picking out an air conditioner for your garage, but it is ultimately for the best to take your time and look for an option that is well-suited to your needs. Lex East’s team of air conditioner professionals can help you understand what to look for.
Energy Efficiency
First, you should pay attention to how energy-efficient the AC unit is. Inefficient units will use a lot of power to keep your garage cool, which can result in high electric bills. To determine an AC unit’s efficiency, look for the unit’s SEER or CEER rating.
What is SEER rating? SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a rating that measures the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. CEER stands for Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio and applies specifically to window units. Units with higher scores offer more efficient cooling. As of 2023, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) recommends AC units with SEER ratings of 15 or higher for the Southern United States.
Cooling Output (BTU)
Cooling output indicates how well the AC unit removes hot air from a space. You will need an air conditioner with enough cooling output for the size of your garage. Larger spaces require higher output, while smaller spaces may not need as much cooling output.
The cooling output of an AC unit can be found by a few different methods. You might find the cooling capacity listed in BTU on the unit’s nameplate. What does BTU stand for in HVAC systems? BTU stands for British Thermal Units and is the unit used to measure cooling output.
You can also find the cooling capacity by calculating that air conditioner’s tonnage. The model number will contain a number representing capacity in BTUs. The number generally ranges between 18 and 60 and indicates BTUs in the thousands. One ton of cooling capacity is 12,000 BTU per hour. Divide the system’s BTU by 12,000 to get the tonnage. For example, an 18 indicates that the unit offers 18,000 BTU. Divide 18,000 by 12,000 to get 1.5 tons.
Dehumidifying Features
Humidity can make high temperatures feel even more oppressive. In addition to providing cool air, some air conditioners come with dehumidifying features. If you live in an area with high humidity, consider a garage air conditioner that removes excess moisture.
Types of Air Conditioners for Garages and Sheds
Texas residents often rely on the following types of air conditioners to cool garages and sheds.
Window AC Unit for Garage Spaces
Window units are a common choice when you need to cool a single room rather than your whole home. These units sit mounted in a window and vent hot air outside via an exhaust hose.
Pros
Window units offer a wide range of benefits, including an easy installation process. Many individuals can install these units without professional help. Window AC units are also generally affordable. Newer units are often designed with energy efficiency in mind, so a new window unit may reduce energy consumption.
Cons
You must have accessible window space to install a window unit, which limits where these units can be placed. The window placement will also block natural light. Failing to properly seal gaps between the unit and the window can result in air leaks and energy loss. If you have a large garage, a window unit may lack the necessary cooling power to remove hot air. Additionally, window units sometimes struggle to cool spaces that lack insulation.
Portable AC for Garage Spaces
Portable air conditioners are convenient, self-contained systems that can be placed almost anywhere in your home. A portable air conditioning unit vents hot air and humidity outside through a hose. Some units use two hoses. One hose vents while the other draws in air from outside and cools it. In addition to providing cold air, some portable air conditioners have a dehumidifying feature.
Pros
While other types of air conditioners require permanent installation, a portable air conditioner offers flexibility. The unit’s portability makes it convenient for spaces with limited options for AC installation. Portable AC units are also more affordable than some other models. These units can be well-suited to small garages where larger or more expensive cooling systems would be impractical. Portable units can also provide air circulation by venting air outside through a window or through a vent kit.
Cons
Portable air conditioners generally have less cooling capacity than other types of ACs, including window units and mini split systems. If you have a large, two-car garage, a portable air conditioner will likely struggle to adequately cool the space.
The cooling process of portable AC units causes a slight negative pressure, which can be an issue in garages. Garages are often less insulated, with gaps by the windows or garage doors which air can get through. The negative pressure can draw warm air in through these gaps, potentially undoing whatever cooling the unit has accomplished.
Although portable units offer some flexibility in placement, the exhaust vents must be placed near a window or vent. Finding the right space can be cumbersome. Additionally, portable models often require regular maintenance that can be tedious. Some units come with filters that must be cleaned and occasionally replaced or condensate trays that must be emptied.
Mini Split for Garage Spaces
Mini split systems consist of an outdoor compressor and condenser unit and one or more indoor wall-mounted units. This ductless system is well-suited to larger garage sizes.
Pros
Unlike window units and portable air conditioners, mini split systems are ductless. This means you do not need to have access to a window or vent to install a mini split. Having multiple indoor units also allows for individualized temperature control in different areas of your garage. Mini splits are energy-efficient systems that can result in increased energy cost savings. A mini split system has both cooling and heating capabilities, making it more useful year-round.
Cons
Mini splits can be more difficult to set up and often require professional installation. Mini splits work better in larger spaces than in smaller spaces. Additionally, mini-splits can be less efficient in colder climates.
What is the Best AC Unit for a Garage in Texas?
If you need an AC unit for your garage, we highly recommend the mini split system. Mini splits have significant advantages over both window units and portable air conditioners. With excellent cooling power and a heating mode for winter, a mini split can keep you comfortable through any season. Mini splits also generally have a higher cooling capacity and offer more precise temperature control through multiple indoor units. Although installation can be more difficult, you can rely on Lex East for mini split installation in Tyler, TX and the surrounding areas.
How the Air Conditioning Experts at Lex Air East Texas Can Help
Local residents choose Lex East for Tyler, Texas AC replacement services, repair, maintenance, and more. Our team understands that the right AC unit can make a big difference in your comfort, energy efficiency, and utility costs. We determine the best AC unit for your home based on our professional knowledge and your preferences. Whether you’re interested in AC systems with remote control options, a unit that is impressively quiet, or something that offers both cooling and heating options, we can help.
Selecting the Best AC Unit for Your Space
The size of your space is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an AC unit. Our technicians can help find a unit that will cool your entire space. We also explain the new AC unit cost based on square footage so that you can budget accordingly.
Installing your Garage Air Conditioner
Our licensed technicians provide professional air conditioner installation in Tyler, TX. We treat each job with care, taking the time to ensure installation is done right. When you need mini split installation, the Lex East team will install both the indoor and outdoor units. With the units in place, we connect the refrigerant lines, electrical wiring, and a condensate drain.
Performing Maintenance and Repairs on Your Garage AC
If you have a garage AC that needs repairs or maintenance, don’t hesitate to call Lex Air. Our team has ample experience in diagnosing various air conditioning problems, allowing us to address those issues quickly. We also offer HVAC maintenance plans in Tyler, TX that can help you avoid costly repairs.
Looking for the Best Garage Air Conditioners in Texas? Call the Lex Air East Texas Air Conditioning Technicians Today
Don’t suffer in the heat. Allow the team at Lex Air East Texas to help you today! Our team is waiting to offer knowledgeable advice on choosing the right AC for your garage. Once you have decided on the right AC unit, we’ll provide quick and accurate AC installation so you can make use of your garage space in comfort.
Call (903) 833-9510 or use the Lex East online contact form to schedule AC installation in Tyler, TX today!