I'm in middle Tennessee and need some tips on cooling my two-car garage, which I use as a gym. It usually sits around 77 degrees, and I've got a 13k portable A/C unit set up about six feet away from the window. It takes a little while for the cool air to reach my workout area, which is only about 6 to 8 feet from the A/C.
Should I consider using a dehumidifier before I turn on the A/C? Would adding an extra fan help cool down the garage more quickly while the A/C is running? Despite using the A/C for an hour or more, the thermostat often still reads 77 degrees. I'd love to hear any other suggestions you might have! Thanks!
3 Answers
Your portable A/C unit is actually a dehumidifier too, so let it run a bit longer to clear out the humidity. If you haven't already, try minimizing the distance of the exhaust hose, as those can release a lot of heat. Also, keep an eye on the humidity levels; cooling down feels a lot better at 77°F with lower humidity. If it's really high, it might be worth considering a mini-split or window unit in the future for better efficiency.
How low do you want to get the temp in your garage? Depending on the power of your A/C, insulation, and airflow, it can be tough to drop the temperature more than a degree an hour. But definitely add some fans pointing at you while you work out! They can really help with sweat evaporation and make you feel cooler.
Have you thought about insulating your garage door? That could really help keep the cool air in. Also, I highly recommend a big freestanding fan; just moving the air around can make a big difference, even without the A/C running. It's not super hot in the mid-70s, so think of it as training your body to adapt to the heat! I work out in my garage in Texas without A/C, and it definitely helps with conditioning for summer activities.