Question for the A/C pros.

[IvoryRoot]

I'm looking at installing a mini split in my 20x20 garage. I have a insulated door and ceiling if it matters. How many BTU and ton unit will I need to be efficient? I want it to be able to keep up and not have to run all day just to maintain. Any manufacturer recommendations you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

[txoutdoorsman24]

What's the square footage? Heatload calculation if you have it?

Just going off what you said, a 18000 BTU (1.5 ton) will be sufficient. You could run a couple different air handlers off one condenser and be just fine

[MexiCoon]

I put a Mitsubishi split unit in my cabin. I have a 12kBTU unit that cools a 16x16 living room/kitchen area and a 9kBTU unit that cools my 11x10 bedroom and a small bathroom. Both outside and inside units are so quiet u don't even know they are on. I'm really happy with it. And Mitsubishi has been making those for so long they've pretty much perfected it. I ain't no licensed HVAC I'm just giving u my opinion and a review on mine. Good luck.

[IvoryRoot]

What's the square footage? Heatload calculation if you have it?

Just going off what you said, a 18000 BTU (1.5 ton) will be sufficient. You could run a couple different air handlers off one condenser and be just fine

400 Sq. foot. I'm really not sure what a heatload calculation is.

[IvoryRoot]

I put a Mitsubishi split unit in my cabin. I have a 12kBTU unit that cools a 16x16 living room/kitchen area and a 9kBTU unit that cools my 11x10 bedroom and a small bathroom. Both outside and inside units are so quiet u don't even know they are on. I'm really happy with it. And Mitsubishi has been making those for so long they've pretty much perfected it. I ain't no licensed HVAC I'm just giving u my opinion and a review on mine. Good luck.

Thanks,

[txoutdoorsman24]

400 Sq. foot. I'm really not sure what a heatload calculation is.

Ok no worries. I guess I should've asked, will the garage stay open or will it be sectioned into rooms.
With 400 sq ft and an open area, a 1 ton (12000btu) system will work. As stated I'd go wit Mitsubishi. Best on the market but cost a little more. I went thru there week long service tech school and they are super easy to install and work on.

[IvoryRoot]

Thanks, just a normal garage. Not going to add a room or anything, just keep it colder.

[J-Fish]

Man its going to sound crazy but get an inverter 2 ton. It will ramp up and down in tonnage as needed. It will run and run but that's a good thing. They tell us 70% of the energy used is during start up, so long run times are not necessary a bad thing. Actually easier on the equipment.

With an inverter unit it can run down to about 30% of total capacity or max out at peak capacity if needed.

Keep in mind, 99% of the builder don't insulate the ceiling or the exterior walls of a garage, so you can't use standard sq ft ratings when sizing....

I only install the Trane units. I have customers that buy them online and most last a couple years. They all seem to develop leaks at the flare fittings.