Multiple mini-splits in same space?

[jloehlein]

Hi. I have had a 32'x80'x16' metal building put up for a garage in central VA and I'm looking to heat and cool it. The building has a wall down the center, effectively creating (2) 32'x40' spaces. One of them is the main workshop and it is a completely open space. The other half is split into 3-car garage plus an enclosed workshop with storage above. Here is the best picture I could find that shows the different sections - I'm standing in the main workshop, looking towards the center of the building. The next 20' past the divider wall is the enclosed workshop with storage above, and the last 20' past that is 3 car garage.

And the outside - the main workshop has the two larger doors.

I'm most interested in heating and cooling the main workshop. I've talked to a couple people and the consensus is I would need a 3 ton system. I've been looking at systems, and it seems single 3 ton systems are more expensive and generally have a lower SEER rating than buying two separate, higher-SEER 1.5 ton systems. Are there any issues running two individual systems in the same space?

Thanks in advance.

 

[theoldwizard1]

2 separate systems is the way to go ! But for a 32x40 space you are going to need AT LEAST 2 air handlers per side, 4 would be better. You might get away with just 2 in thye shop, but you will need some BIG fans.

 

[fattony1218]

At that point, why mini splits? Probably close in price to a conventional split system, and would move air a lot better, not to mention better filtration and gas heat (or you could go heat pump if gas isn't available)

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[Wakepowell]

I put two of the large Mitsubishi systems in my 72x54 shop and they work well together

 

[Jackfre]

You have a much better comfort level and control with multiples. Two fans in a space allow better air circulation and more even temps. Your observation on the efficiency is correct and there will be times when you will run only one and be happy with it. Just locate the evaps so they create a circulation pattern. Don't have them blowing at each other.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I put two of the large Mitsubishi systems in my 72x54 shop and they work well together

Just 2 air handlers inside ? Do you have extra fans ?

 

[jloehlein]

At that point, why mini splits? Probably close in price to a conventional split system, and would move air a lot better, not to mention better filtration and gas heat (or you could go heat pump if gas isn't available)

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Yeah, after looking into it some more and talking to a couple of people, I am getting a conventional split system. The split system + ducting is about the same cost as two smaller mini splits. The traditional systems are more serviceable, too.

Part of the draw of the mini splits for me was that I was planning on doing the labor myself. After hitting a deer in my daily driver, I've gotta deal with fixing that now, so I don't have the time.

 

[slodat]

I have two 2-Ton mini splits in 3500 sq ft. Paid $1000 for each system. Did the install myself. Easy job. $2300 all in.

 

[Wakepowell]

Just 2 air handlers inside ? Do you have extra fans ?

I have two air handlers inside and no fans. The air handlers distribute the air extremely well. I could be happier with the systems.

 

[Xicaque]

Just curious.... How much does it cost to build a structure like that? Ballpark pls? Thanks.


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[jloehlein]

Just curious.... How much does it cost to build a structure like that? Ballpark pls? Thanks.

Including the building, concrete, interior, labor, electric, water, but not including clearing the land and the half acre of gravel - I'm at ~$35/sqft.