Few questions for new garage

[dlc]

Will have a new garage built soon and I'm starting to think about cooling/heating. The garage is going to be 24x32 (768 sq. ft.) with a 14' ceiling. I'll be the first to tell you that I know nothing about hvac. I'm trying to decide whether to go with a heat pump or a mini-split unit. The garage will be fully insulated with 2x6 walls and 2 7'x9' garage doors. I've been reading through this section of GJ a lot but I'm still at a loss as to which will best suit my needs. Cost is a big concern as far as the installation goes and the monthly utility costs. I'm not looking to keep the garage at 68* in the winter and 72* in the summer. Just wanting a temperature that is bearable in the summer and winter. What suggestions do you guys have to offer? How many btu (tons) do I need. Also, is there a reputable place on the internet to buy hvac wholesale?

 

[dlc]

Anybody?

 

[Falcon67]

A ruff figure would be 400~500sq/ft per ton for cooling and maybe 300 sq/ft per ton heating. The 14' ceiling makes it a lot worse for heating IMHO. Here's an interesting set of figures - have no idea if they are close or bogus
http://www.ehow.com/how_7462243_calculate-btu-garage.html

Buying HVAC wholesale - in my experience anyway - requires having a friend or major contact in the business. Most supply houses will not sell you (Mr. Consumer) the unit and most companies will not finish the install since you didn't buy it through them. That also would be a side job from a contact in the biz.

You may be able to shop local AC companies for a take out unit in decent shape.

 

[HoosierBuddy]

I'm no expert on mini-splits, but it would seem to me your situation would be perfect for one. Not a ton of sf. Southern state so the heating load is probably less of an issue than the cooling side.

We put one in at work to cool our server room (Mitsubishi) and that thing has been problem free for like 8 years. Puts out lots of cold air.

Phil

 

[jimp]

http://www.alpinehomeair.com/viewcategory.cfm?categoryID=489

I got my HVAC from these people. If you can use a package unit and live with the seer 13 and 80% AFUE, it's worth considering (local codes might not allow seer 13 or 80%, so I would check that first). They are new old stock that are no longer desired in the market.

You might also watch, because I got mine for $1,600 (4 ton/ 115,000 btu) almost $1,000 off current price.

I have ordered from them once, got the package unit before my CC was charged. So for me service was great, don't know if that is the norm or I was a fluke. The unit is over 1 year old now and no problems.

 

[Jackfre]

Go to Fujitsugenral.com and run the heat loss numbers. The standard Manual J (heat loss program) accounts for duct system losses of I think it is 18%. Fujitsu's program, as it doesn't have duct is correct for this. It will give you the number upon which you can base your decisions.

 

[foleymech]

Im in the business. Buy a Mitsubishi M series 3 ton ductless mini split wall mount heat pump. It has an inverter compressor in it so it load matches itself to the space. They are the best unit for the money.