10 Tips to Keep Your Garage Cool
Check out these tips for keeping your garage cool in the summer!
1. Use Your Garage Wisely
Going in and out of your garage all day can trap hot air inside. Try to use your garage in the cooler hours of the day, like early morning. Limiting how often you open and close your door throughout the day can help keep temperatures cool.
2. Park Your Vehicle Outside to Cool Off
An efficient way to cool a garage is to park vehicles in the driveway or a shady spot after using them. Cars can take several hours to cool down, so parking them inside your garage can raise the temperature. Once your car has cooled off, park it inside to keep it secure and protected from outside elements.
3. Open Doors and Windows for Airflow
Open the garage door in the early morning or late evening to let in fresh, cool air. If you have windows, open them too to get a cross breeze that cools your garage. Be sure to close your garage door and windows during the hottest parts of the day. Using window treatments on your windows can also block heat.
4. Place Fans Throughout Your Garage
Installing a ceiling fan is a great way to cool off, as long as your garage is tall enough. Floor fans will work, too. If you have multiple fans, place one at an open door or window to blow hot air out, and set up another directed at you. The fans won’t decrease the temperature, but the flowing air will feel nice.
5. Declutter the Space
Bulky items can block airflow and retain heat. Place equipment, boxes and other large items along walls or on shelves. With these items out of the way, you can improve the efficiency of other cooling methods and better use your space.
6. Try a Dehumidifier
Humidity can make your garage feel hotter than it actually is. Run a dehumidifier with a ventilation system to cool off your garage. A dehumidifier will also help your garage feel less sticky and more comfortable.
7. Set up a Ventilation System
A well-ventilated garage will be a cooler garage. A few garage ventilation ideas include:
- Adding roof vents
- Installing exhaust and ventilation fans
- Using window fans
8. Insulation Ideas
Your garage is exposed to the sun all day, so without proper insulation, heat can penetrate your space. Insulate your garage’s walls and attic to prevent heat transfer and keep the area cool. Upgrade your garage door from a non-insulated door to one with insulation to improve the energy efficiency of your garage.
9. Pick Lighter Colors for Your Garage
Dark colors absorb more heat, so choosing lighter colors for your garage can help it feel cooler. Pay attention to the colors of your roof, exterior walls and garage door. Choose a door with a higher Light Reflective Value (LRV) to help reflect more light and not absorb as much heat.
10. Purchase an Air Conditioner
While it is more expensive than other cooling options, an air conditioner is the best way to cool down a garage. If you plan to spend a lot of time in your garage in the summer, a ductless air conditioner or a portable one may be a valuable investment.
Keep Cool This Summer With Help From Garage Door Specialists, Inc.
Contact us today to see how we can help you pick the right garage door for your home!