I have a detached two-car garage where I'm looking for some tips to improve airflow and make it more comfortable while I work. I installed a ceiling fan I got for free, which is pulling air up, and I'm thinking of adding a large box fan or maybe another fan on the opposite side to push air outside. The garage has only a small window, so I can't use a window AC. The roof is vented, so I'm hoping the ceiling fan will help with air circulation. Any advice on creating a better airflow would be greatly appreciated!
4 Answers
To keep cool in the garage, aim to have fans blowing directly on you. If the outside air is cooler than inside, circulating it can make a huge difference. A swamp cooler is great in dry climates, but again, it needs to blow air right at you. Make sure to insulate the doors and attic to keep the heat out, and consider a thru-wall AC if you can!
I suggest you go for a bigger fan or keep adding fans in the same direction so they aren't counteracting each other. Exhaust fans higher up can really help pull that hot air out! If your ceiling isn't finished, consider a whole-house fan setup to maximize airflow.
Have you thought about isolating your projector? They generate a lot of heat, and you could build a little enclosure that brings in fresh air while exhausting heat outside. Just make sure the intake has a filter to keep dust out!
But enclosing the projector might not solve the heat issue entirely, since they already have built-in fans. I've used a projector for years and found that simply having good air movement helps more overall.
Another route is to use a portable AC unit. It can vent through the window and help cool down the space. I live in Mississippi and while fans can be helpful, sometimes they're just circulating hot, humid air. A mini-split system could be a game changer for long-term comfort!
Just a heads-up, I live in Iowa too, and when the garage doors are open, it's essential to focus on air movement. The humidity can make it uncomfortable, so keep trying to circulate that air!