How To Install AC In Garage
June 27, 2025
Why You Need AC in Your Garage (Yes, Seriously!)
Let’s be honest—garages in Katy, TX can get hot. We’re talking sauna-level hot, especially in summer. Whether you’re working on your car, using it as a home gym, or turned it into a man cave, cooling your garage is more than a comfort—it’s a necessity.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Absolutely. A climate-controlled garage increases your home’s usable square footage and makes those summer projects bearable. It’s like adding a bonus room—without the new construction price tag.
Comfort, Safety, and Utility Value
Extreme heat can damage tools, paint, electronics, and even stored food. And if you’re spending hours in there? Well, let’s just say no one enjoys welding in 110°F heat. Adding an AC can even boost home resale value.
Before You Start: Important Considerations
Before you go mounting an AC unit next to your workbench, here are a few must-knows.
Garage Insulation – The Game Changer
This step isn’t optional. Without insulation, your AC will work overtime and your energy bills will skyrocket. Insulate the walls, ceiling, and especially the garage door.
Ventilation and Airflow
A good airflow setup prevents moisture build-up and keeps things fresh. Exhaust fans or windows can make a big difference.
Do You Need Heating Too?
If you’re using your garage year-round, consider a dual system that offers both heating and cooling. Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy can walk you through smart options based on your goals.
Types of AC Units That Work Best for Garages
Let’s go through the most garage-friendly systems and why they might work for your setup.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Hands down, this is the best option for garage cooling. It’s energy-efficient, super quiet, and doesn’t require ductwork. You mount the indoor unit on the wall and connect it to an outdoor compressor. Done!
Portable Air Conditioners
These are budget-friendly and easy to move. However, they’re less efficient and need to vent hot air outside—usually through a window or a makeshift exhaust port.
Through-the-Wall Units
A little more permanent than portable ones, these are installed right into the garage wall. They offer decent cooling for smaller garages and don’t eat up floor space.
Window AC Units
If you’re lucky enough to have a garage window (many don’t), a standard window unit might do the trick for light-duty cooling.
Step-by-Step: How to Install AC in Your Garage
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here’s how to do it right.
Step 1: Choose the Right System
Decide based on garage size, insulation level, and how often you’ll use it. Need help? Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy can give a Free Estimate AC Repair Katy TX and recommendations.
Step 2: Insulate Your Garage First
Insulation is your foundation. Without it, your AC won’t be effective—and you’ll waste money every month.
Step 3: Prep the Space and Power Source
Make sure your garage has the right electrical capacity. Mini-splits and through-wall units often require a 220V outlet.
Step 4: Install Your AC Unit
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. For mini-splits, mount the indoor unit securely, drill a hole for the refrigerant line, and connect to the outdoor condenser.
Step 5: Seal and Secure Everything
Seal up gaps, insulate the refrigerant lines, and make sure there’s no air leakage. A sealed space means efficient cooling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation
Even the best intentions can go sideways without some planning.
Skipping Insulation
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—don’t skip insulation. It’s like trying to cool a tent with a desk fan.
Undersizing or Oversizing the AC
Too small and it won’t cool properly. Too big and it’ll cycle too quickly, wasting energy and wearing out faster.
Ignoring Permits or Codes
Depending on your area, you might need a permit for electrical work or major HVAC changes. Check with the city of Katy or let the pros at Done Deal handle it.
When to Call the Pros (Spoiler: Most of the Time)
Installing AC isn’t always a DIY win—sometimes it’s a hot mess waiting to happen.
Signs You Shouldn’t DIY
- No experience with electrical or HVAC systems
- Garage has no insulation or ventilation
- Unit requires complex wiring or refrigerant charging
Benefits of Professional Installation
HVAC techs (like the crew at Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy) ensure safety, code compliance, and long-lasting performance. Plus, you get a warranty and peace of mind.
Why Call Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy for the Job
We’re not just some guys with tools. We live and work in Katy, and we know how brutal Texas heat can be.
Expert Garage AC Installs
Whether it’s a full ductless system or a simple through-wall unit, we’ve installed it—and seen what works best for garages.
Honest Advice and a Free Estimate
We won’t sell you something you don’t need. Just call us for a Free Estimate AC Repair Katy TX, and we’ll walk you through the smartest option for your space.
Fast, Local, and Always Reliable
From emergency repairs to full installs, Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy is your hometown HVAC hero.
The Cost of Garage AC Installation in Katy, TX
So, what’s the damage?
Typical Price Ranges
- Portable AC: $300 – $700
- Window/Wall Unit: $500 – $1,500
- Mini-Split System: $2,000 – $4,500 (including install)
What Impacts the Final Cost
- Garage size
- System type
- Electrical upgrades
- Insulation needs
- Labor costs
Get a Free Estimate for AC Repair or Installations in Katy, TX
Don’t guess. Don’t Google around for hours. Call Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy for a no-pressure, no-obligation quote.
How It Works with Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy
You call. We schedule. We show up and give you real numbers—no hidden charges.
What to Expect During Your Estimate
We’ll inspect the space, check insulation and ventilation, and give you honest feedback. Want to move forward? We’ll get started ASAP.
Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy Serving the Cinco Ranch Community and Beyond in Katy
Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy is dedicated to serving the diverse needs of the local community of Katy, including individuals residing in neighborhoods like Cinco Ranch. With its convenient location near landmarks such as Cinco Ranch High School and major intersections like Commercial Center Boulevard & Cinco Ranch Boulevard (coordinates: 29.74045255000502, -95.77508557552193), we offer Free Estimate AC Repair Katy TX services.
Get Free Estimate AC Repair Katy TX Services at Cinco Ranch Now
Navigate from Cinco Ranch to Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy Now
Stay Cool in the Garage Without the Headache
Cooling your garage isn’t just a luxury anymore—it’s a smart move that adds comfort, function, and even value to your home. Whether you’re a weekend mechanic, a home gym warrior, or just tired of sweating buckets out there, an AC system makes it all better.
And when you’re ready, Done Deal A/C & Heating Katy has your back—with expert service and a Free Estimate AC Repair Katy TX you can trust.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use a regular house AC unit in my garage?
Not really. House systems are sized for interior living spaces and might not cool a poorly insulated garage efficiently.
Q2. Do I need a permit to install AC in my garage in Katy, TX?
Most likely, yes—especially if you’re adding new electrical circuits or installing permanent systems. Done Deal can handle that for you.
Q3. How long does it take to install a mini-split in a garage?
Most installs take 1 to 2 days, depending on wiring and wall type.
Q4. Will AC in the garage increase my energy bill a lot?
Not if your garage is well-insulated and you use an energy-efficient unit with a high SEER rating.
Q5. Can I use fans instead of AC in the garage?
You can, but fans just move hot air around. AC cools the air, making the space actually livable.
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