Can You Put A Mini Split Condenser In A Garage?
Today, more and more homes are using devices like mini-split to maintain the desired temperature in each room. These devices consist of an indoor unit (evaporator) and an outdoor unit (condenser). In order for the device to function properly and give the best possible results, it is necessary to do a correct installation. Therefore, one of the frequently asked questions is, can a mini-split condenser be installed in the garage? In this article, we’ll talk about this and much more. So, let’s start!
Can You Put A Mini Split Condenser In A Garage? A mini-split condenser should be placed outdoors, while the evaporator is considered an indoor unit and should be installed inside the garage or home. Placing the mini-split condenser inside the garage will significantly reduce the device’s capacity to extract heat from your home.
Although installing an AC unit is only the first step, there are some other important things to pay attention to. In order to improve the performance of your device, you need to pay attention to some other factors. In the following, we will go through all the essentials related to the mini-split condenser and how to get the best results.
What Is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split is a heating and cooling system used to control and adjust the desired temperature in each room in the house. It contains of two units; an indoor unit (evaporator) and an outdoor unit (condenser). The installation process of this system is very simple and requires you to drill a three-inch hole in the wall where you push three wires through it. One is for copper tubing, and the other two are for condensation drain lines.
Although these systems are quite popular in new and more modern homes, they can also be installed in homes without installed ducts. Using them, you can heat or cool a room in a very short time, which is a big advantage compared to other systems. You won’t have to struggle with large and complex HVAC systems that also require a lot of maintenance.
Here is also one topic that might be interesting for you: Is It Safe to Use a Propane Heater In a Garage?
Don’t Put a Mini Split Condenser Into The Garage
A mini-split device can be installed into the garage as long as the condenser unit is placed outside. By having one in your garage, the garage will be warm during the winter, while during the summer, you will have a cool atmosphere.
However, this is possible only as long as the condenser is placed outside because it cannot work properly in a closed environment. During the summer, when the temperature outside is 97°F, it can adjust the temperature to 77°F, while during the winter, when the temperature outside is 32°F, a mini-split can keep the temperature of the garage at 75°F.
What Is The Temperature Range For Mini Split Condenser?
Each device, even a mini-split condenser, has its own limits up to which it can maintain the ideal temperature in the room. During the summer, when the temperature outside doesn’t go above 113°F, the mini-split device will be able to maintain the set temperature in the room. However, during the winter, as long as the temperature doesn’t go below 15°F, the mini-split device will function properly and will be able to keep the garage warm.
Things to Look For When Installing An AC Condenser
Now that we have explained why it is important for the condenser to be placed outside, there are other things to look for when installing one. Therefore, these are the important factors that need to be considered before installing an AC condenser:
1. The Condenser Should be Protected From the Sun
When putting the condenser outside, it should pay attention that it is not exposed to the sun directly. During summer, there is a possibility of overheating. If the condenser is exposed to the sun, it will add additional heat to the unit, which will strain it further.
If you can’t find a suitable place to hide your condenser from the sun, you can always place an awning around it. Although this is not a very cheap option, it is one of the possible ones that you can take advantage of. By placing an awning you will also get a nice look.
Another option you can use is to place your condenser unit under a tree near your house. However, it all depends on your area and whether the conditions allow it. But the bottom line is that your outdoor unit should not be exposed to the sun.
2. Place It On The Flat and Stable Ground
It is very important that if you are placing your outdoor unit (condenser) on the ground that it is on flat and stable ground. This is for the safety measures of the device itself. Therefore, the surface must not be dipped, sloped, or bumpy. Of course, when you buy the device, you will receive detailed instructions on how it should be.
3. Place Condenser in a Safe Area
Finally, make sure that the outside unit (condenser) is placed in a safe area, where pets or children do not have access. Although there are no excessive security risks, you should always be on guard.
What Is The Installation Cost Of A Mini Split?
The average price of installing a mini-split unit is around $1,500. However, this depends on the features of the unit itself and how many BTUs it has. For example, a 20,000 BTU is suitable for a garage that has around 390 sq ft.
However, if you already have some DIY experience, you can do the installation yourself and save about $300 on it. Most people opt for the help of professionals. Their cost can vary significantly and depends on where you will place your mini-split device, whether there are additional jobs related to electrical installations or the like.
How Many BTUs Are Required For Your Garage?
Since garages are usually less insulated than rooms in the house, it is necessary to multiply the total sq ft of the garage with the amount of 50 BTUs. That’s because most garages have small holes where air leaks, and it’s good to have a stronger system installed than the weaker one.
However, you can find online calculators where you can measure the right BTU amount for different size garages. Also, you can hire a professional to calculate it for you and tell you what model you need for your garage.
Final Thoughts
A mini-split condenser is a great system that is used in a lot of homes to optimize the desired temperature in the room. But what you need to know is that the mini-split condenser should never be placed in a closed environment such as a garage. This is because it will not be able to draw fresh air, which is necessary for its optimal operation, and its performance will be reduced. Certainly, if you decide to install this system, consult with a professional. I hope we have helped you with this article.
