mini split heat pump install in wi.

[72puma]

planning a mini split installation in wi. where main mode would be for heating.
could i mount the outdoor unit inside my attached uninsulated garage where it would be sheltered from wind driven snow plus it is usually 10 degres warmer?not so concerned about summer cooling because ac is not used very much and i can always open windows and doors for ventilation.
my house is exposed on all 4 sides to high winds and blowing snow that can get into every opening.i am concerned the fan and coils would get plugged with sifting snow whenever it snows and blows which is quite often here.

 

[1/2 Cup]

I've been told, but not confirmed;
Heat pumps might not work well below 32...

As above, check the operating specs out first.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I've been told, but not confirmed;
Heat pumps might not work well below 32...

It depends. Older models, yes. Newer models will work much lower. From Mitsubishi ...

Select models use Hyper-Heating INVERTER (H2i®) technology that operates effectively down to -13º F. These models give true year-round comfort from a single system.

As for the OP question, my biggest concern would be in A/C mode. Your garage will get awful hot.

 

[72puma]

current mitsubishi muz-fe09 models put out 92% of rated capacity at 5 degrees f and 58% at -13

 

[pop pop]

72puma, I'd like to see that data. Seems to me from Mit that you're down to <40% @ ~5* F.
What am I missing?

http://www.mitsubishipro.com/media/214712/muz-fe09-18na_service_obh543a_9-10.pdf

 

[monkeyspanners]

Your garage won't be 10 degrees warmer once the heat pump starts moving all the heat into the house...

Something like a small car port would be better as it would keep the snow away but allow fresh air to be cooled by the outdoor unit to provide the heat for the indoor unit to put into your home.

A heatpump may not be the best choice, or some backup heating may be needed depending on how cold it gets where you live.

 

[Gvos]

Finished construction on a 24 x 32 garage with an insulated 13 x 24 hobby room this fall. I chose to go with the Mitsubishi Mini Split with a hyper heat compressor to heat the office/hobby room portion. We have had several severe cold snaps in Central MN this winter down to -29F. Heat pump is the only heat source. It does continue to put out heat at -12 F. However at such low temps it losses ground about 10 degrees over night. Down to 0F it seems to maintain 60 degrees F without any problems. I am planning on adding a natural gas supplemental heat source this summer for the extreme cold snaps. These new heat pumps are pretty amazing however. Hope this helps.

 

[Ohmthis]

My suggestion is to look at Mitsubishi's installation manual on whichever unit you want. Most if not all manufacturers provide info to high winds and snow and how to deal with them. You could also call them and get more details.