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Old 02-08-2008, 01:33 PM
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gfmucci gfmucci is offline
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Default Garage AC Options

There are numerous ways to air condition the garage. In my case, I also want to keep the humidity low in the garage, so just ventilating it well with fans and screen doors is not enough.

Soooo, here are the options I'm aware of, some of which do not comply with deed restrictions...

* Window unit - does not comply
* Through the wall unit - does not comply
* Through the wall unit maintained flush with the exterior of the building (not protruding outside), the grillwork painted the same color as the siding, and hidden by bushes - does not comply

The following will comply, but have varying issues associated with them

* Circulating the house AC air into the garage - not too effective; capacity issue
* "Mini-split" system - pricey $2,000 - $4,000 cool only
* Portable AC unit - pricey - more than window unit, but less than mini split; about $600 for 12,000 btu. Now here is the part that should allow this to be consistent with deed restrictions: Port the exhaust into the attic. Hot air rises, there are ridge vents, etc. Not as efficient as window units, probably because of relatively small exhaust, like a small exhaust pipe on a car restricting the exhaust air flow of an engine.
* Window AC unit - 12,000 btu $350, installed totally INSIDE the garage, near the ceiling, with ductwork directing the exhaust into the attic.

So, the question is, why wouldn't these last two options work? Does anyone see a downside?

As an aside, when the AC is not running, I will run a stand-alone dehumidifier. And I will insulate the ceiling and the garage doors.
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