Input needed on AC size and placement

[dmcintosh]

I'm working on finishing the interior of my 24' x 30' x 10' pole building style garage in DE and have a question about AC size and placement. The interior is being drywalled and insulated. I had loose fill blown into the ceiling (R-30) and the walls have fiberglass batts (R-19). Insulated Garage door is 12 x 8 and on the gable end. The east wall (30') has three small sliding windows (1x3) up high for light, and the west wall has a 36" man door and two 3x4 double hung windows. The other unique feature is me 'shed' built into the northeast corner of the garage. It's 8x10 and 7' tall - provides a place for the lawn mower, kids bikes and air compressor, while the upper loft area is used for parts for the car I am restoring. Would like a mini-split but can't really justify the cost, so I am thinking a window AC built into the wall.

From what I've read hear and elsewhere I think 18,000 BTUs should keep me cool. Looking at this unit: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Frigidai...ner-with-Heat-and-Remote-FFRH1822R2/205870215
Is this going to be big enough/too big for my space, and the other big question is where to put it. I'm thinking the east wall (30') near the middle of the building. But do I go between two of the windows which will off set the AC toward one end, under the middle sliding window, or somewhere else all together?

 

[zmaxmotorsports]

1 1/2t,1800 btu's sounds about right to me.
I'd put a couple fans in thru to help move the air if you can.

 

[dmcintosh]

Thanks. I do have two ceiling fans installed too to help move air around.

 

[dmcintosh]

Anyone else have any wisdom to share?

 

[rattle_snake]

There are several heat load calculators online that can give you a vague sense of confidence on sizing.
I would think a 1.5 ton unit would be a good start based on your info/location.

I would put it in the area you spend the most time in, like above workbench.

 

[dmcintosh]

Thanks.

 

[Marctrees]

As far as Where to put it in the shop - Even if you have fans, I would put it in the side of the shop you will be in most often.

Depending on what you do and where in the shop.

That'll vary depending on YOU.

But obviously, if you have storage all along one wall, and a lift and main workbench on other side, put it there.

For 720 ft I would get a 24K btu.

But actually, I think better... to get two smaller, separate units, and install more or less opposite each other.

Can always size them large, then after temp drops, turn one off, on the side you will not be working in.

That's what we're gonna do, in a 40 x 22 section of pole building.

My opinion, based on experience.

There is plenty to find on Google - "Window AC sizing"

Lastly, you may want to check out this LG line units, even the mid size unit below has a VERY nice slideout enclosure.

Bought one awhile ago for a different use., very nice in all ways so far at least.

Here's the one we're getting soon - Free shipping...... Marc

https://www.walmart.com/ip/LG-LW121...-Air-Conditioner-with-Remote-Control/50703857

 

[Marctrees]

And the higher you put it, within reason, the better the cooled air distribution.

Ours are going about 6'2" to underside... above head bang height... low enough two guys on a short baker scaffold can safely handle it.

Actually, two good men can slide it in at that height w/o the scaffold, but carefully.

Make sure you can still easily reach controls !! Marc

 

[dmcintosh]

And the higher you put it, within reason, the better the cooled air distribution.

Ours are going about 6'2" to underside... above head bang height... low enough two guys on a short baker scaffold can safely handle it.

Actually, two good men can slide it in at that height w/o the scaffold, but carefully.

Make sure you can still easily reach controls !! Marc

Thanks. That's a good point about the height not being too high to reach controls and/or to safely install.

Any thoughts on putting it below a window?

 

[Fueler]

Where to put it? Most manuals go into the whys of this question.
It boils down to this. Wind currents and blowing snow if you get snow.

For me it was the east side that was most protected from blowing snow and leaves.

If you know that snow always drifts up in a certain spot, that is the wrong place.