Heating and Cooling Your Outbuilding or Detached Garage
March 5, 2025
A detached garage, workshop, or outbuilding can be a game-changer for homeowners and businesses. Whether you're using it as a workspace, hobby area, man cave, or she-shed, keeping the space comfortable year-round is essential. However, heating and cooling an outbuilding isn’t as simple as adjusting the thermostat in your home. It requires the right equipment, proper insulation, and an expert touch to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. That’s where Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. comes in—offering customized HVAC solutions designed specifically for your space. Here’s our tips to heating and cooling your outbuilding or detached garage.
Why Heating and Cooling Matter in Your Outbuilding
Many people assume they can get by with an old space heater or a window AC unit, but these are often inefficient, expensive to run, and unsafe. Proper climate control provides several benefits, including:
- Year-Round Comfort: Whether you’re working in the dead of winter or the heat of summer, your space remains comfortable.
- Equipment and Material Protection: If you store tools, paint, electronics, or vehicles in your outbuilding, temperature fluctuations can cause damage.
- Energy Efficiency: A well-planned heating and cooling system, combined with proper insulation, saves you money compared to makeshift solutions.
- Air Quality & Ventilation: Proper HVAC solutions improve air quality by reducing humidity, dust, and pollutants.
Proper Insulation: The Key to Efficiency
Before installing heating and cooling, proper insulation is crucial for maintaining efficiency and keeping costs low. Without adequate insulation, your system will have to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and uneven temperatures.
Recommended insulation options include:
- Spray Foam Insulation – Best for air-sealing and providing high R-value per inch.
- Fiberglass Batts – A cost-effective and easy-to-install option for walls and ceilings.
- Rigid Foam Board – Ideal for insulating garage doors and concrete walls.
- Blown-in Insulation – Great for attics and hard-to-reach spaces.
Choosing the Right Heating and Cooling System
There are several HVAC options for outbuildings, each with its own advantages. Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. specializes in helping you choose the best system for your specific needs.
1. Mini-Split Heat Pumps: The Most Versatile Option
Ductless mini-split heat pump systems are one of the best choices for heating and cooling detached spaces. They offer:
- Energy efficiency – Uses inverter technology to adjust output based on demand.
- Zoned control – You can heat or cool only when needed.
- No ductwork required – Easier installation compared to traditional HVAC systems.
- Year-round performance – Provides both heating and cooling in one system.
2. Overhead Radiant Heat: Efficient and Even Heating
For workshops or garages where dust or air movement is a concern, overhead radiant heating is an excellent option.
- Silent and efficient – Radiant heat warms objects, not just the air.
- No ductwork required – Ideal for open spaces with high ceilings.
- Great for workspaces – Keeps floors and workbenches warm, making it a popular choice for mechanics and woodworkers.
3. Forced Air Unit Heaters: High Heat Output
Forced air unit heaters are a popular choice for larger garages and commercial spaces.
- Powerful heating – Can quickly warm up large spaces.
- Ceiling-mounted options – Saves floor space and distributes heat evenly.
- Gas or electric options – Choose the best energy source for your setup.
4. Packaged HVAC Units for Larger Spaces
For larger workshops or outbuildings, a small forced-air furnace and AC system might be the best choice. While requiring ductwork, it delivers whole-space comfort and excellent efficiency.
5. Radiant Floor Heating for Ultimate Comfort
If you're building or renovating your outbuilding, consider radiant floor heating for efficient, even heat distribution without blowing air or taking up wall space.
6. Typical Furnace: A Reliable Heating Solution
A standard furnace installation can be an effective choice for larger outbuildings.
- Consistent and reliable – Provides a steady source of heat.
- Can be combined with central AC – Making it a complete climate control solution.
- Fuel options – Available in natural gas, propane, or electric models.
Installation: Why Professional Setup Matters
Improper installation can lead to higher energy bills, poor performance, and safety hazards. At Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc., our expert technicians ensure:
- Correct sizing – Too big or too small of a unit can be inefficient.
- Proper ventilation – Essential for gas heating and overall air quality.
- Smart placement – Optimizing airflow and performance.
- Seamless integration – Making sure your system works with any existing structures or utilities.
Get a Custom HVAC Solution for Your Outbuilding Today
Don't settle for a cold workshop in the winter or a stifling garage in the summer. Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. specializes in designing and installing heating and cooling solutions tailored to your unique needs. Our team ensures professional installation, energy efficiency, and long-term comfort.
Ready to transform your outbuilding? Contact us today for a consultation and get the perfect HVAC system for your space!
Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. | Lincoln, NE | Expert HVAC Solution
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If it feels like your furnace never shuts off, you’re not imagining things and you’re not alone. One of the most common concerns we hear from homeowners is why their furnace runs constantly, especially during colder months in Nebraska. While some run time is normal in winter, a furnace that seems to run nonstop can be a sign of underlying issues that affect comfort, efficiency, and energy costs. At Custom Cooling & Heating , we help homeowners understand what their heating system is telling them and when it’s time to take action. Here’s what it means if your furnace is running constantly and what you should do about it. Is It Normal for a Furnace to Run All the Time? During periods of extreme cold, your furnace may run longer cycles to keep your home at the set temperature. This can be completely normal, especially if outdoor temperatures are well below freezing. However, if your furnace rarely shuts off or struggles to reach the desired temperature, there may be an issue affecting performance or efficiency. Understanding why your furnace runs constantly starts with identifying the most common causes. Common Reasons Your Furnace Runs Constantly 1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter A dirty air filter is one of the most common and easily fixable reasons a furnace runs nonstop. When the filter is clogged, airflow is restricted, forcing the furnace to work harder and longer to circulate warm air throughout your home. What this means for your home: Reduced airflow can lead to uneven heating, higher energy bills, and unnecessary wear on your furnace. Regularly changing your air filter helps your system run more efficiently and maintain proper airflow. You can buy your air filters online and save 10% on auto ship. 2. Thermostat Issues or Incorrect Settings Sometimes the problem isn’t the furnace itself, it’s the thermostat. Incorrect settings, calibration issues, or an aging thermostat can cause your system to run continuously. What this means for your home: If your thermostat isn’t accurately reading the indoor temperature, your furnace may think it needs to keep running even when your home is already warm. A properly functioning thermostat helps regulate heating cycles and prevents unnecessary run time. 3. Poor Insulation or Air Leaks If warm air is escaping your home through poor insulation or drafts, your furnace will continue running in an attempt to maintain the desired temperature. What this means for your home: Heat loss forces your system to work harder, increasing energy usage, and reducing comfort. Sealing air leaks and improving insulation can significantly reduce furnace run time and improve efficiency. 4. Mechanical or Maintenance Issues Worn components, improper airflow, or lack of regular maintenance can also cause excessive run time. Small issues can add up, reducing efficiency and shortening the lifespan of your furnace. What this means for your home: Ignoring these issues can lead to more serious repairs down the road. Routine maintenance helps identify and correct problems before they impact system performance. What Constant Furnace Run Time Means for Energy Costs When homeowners ask why their furnace runs constantly, energy efficiency is often the biggest concern. A furnace that runs longer than necessary uses more energy, which can lead to noticeably higher heating bills. Addressing airflow issues, maintenance needs, and insulation concerns can help your system operate more efficiently, saving money while improving comfort. When Should You Call a Professional? If your furnace is running constantly and you’ve already checked the air filter and thermostat settings, it’s a good idea to have a professional take a closer look. Ongoing run time can signal issues that aren’t visible to the average homeowner. A professional inspection can help determine whether your furnace needs adjustment, repair , or routine maintenance to restore proper operation. How Custom Cooling & Heating Can Help At Custom Cooling & Heating, we help homeowners diagnose heating issues, improve efficiency, and stay comfortable throughout the winter. Whether it’s routine maintenance, system repairs, or evaluating overall performance, our goal is to help your furnace work the way it should efficiently and reliably. We focus on practical solutions that extend the life of your system and help prevent costly breakdowns during the coldest months of the year. Take Control of Your Home’s Comfort If you’re wondering why your furnace runs constantly, don’t ignore the signs. Addressing the issue early can improve comfort, lower energy costs, and protect your heating system. Contact Custom Cooling & Heating today to schedule an inspection or maintenance service and ensure your furnace is running efficiently all winter long.
When temperatures plunge and your home suddenly feels more like a walk-in freezer, a broken heater can be more than an inconvenience, it can be an emergency. The middle of winter is the worst time to be without heat but knowing what steps to take can help protect your home, your family, and your comfort. At Custom Cooling & Heating , we help homeowners restore warmth quickly and safely. Here’s what to do if your heater stops working when you need it most. 1. Check the Basics First Before assuming the worst, start with a few simple troubleshooting steps. Many heating failures are caused by basic issues that can be resolved without a service call. Check your thermostat: Make sure it’s set to “Heat” and that the temperature is set higher than your home’s current indoor temp. If it’s a battery-powered thermostat, swap in fresh batteries. Inspect your circuit breaker: A tripped breaker can shut your furnace down completely. Reset it if necessary. Ensure your furnace switch is ON: Furnaces often have a standard light-switch-style power switch on or near the unit. Make sure it wasn’t accidentally turned off. Look at your air filter: A severely clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to shut down for safety. If the filter looks dusty or blocked, replace it . If these quick checks don’t restore heat, the issue may be deeper inside the system and require professional attention. 2. Avoid Overworking Your System When heat stops flowing, it’s natural to keep adjusting the thermostat, hoping the furnace will kick back on. Try to avoid repeatedly turning the system on and off, as this can make the situation worse or cause damage. Instead, turn the system off if you smell burning, hear unusual noises, or see signs of overheating. These can signal electrical issues or mechanical failures that need a technician. 3. Use Safe Temporary Heating Solutions While waiting for repairs, you'll need to keep your home comfortable, but safety should always come first. Avoid using your oven or grill to heat your home, as these methods are extremely dangerous. Safer alternatives include: Electric space heaters: Keep them on a stable surface, at least three feet from flammable items. Fireplaces: Ensure the flue is open for proper ventilation. Layered clothing and blankets: A simple and safe short-term solution. If indoor temperatures drop too low, consider staying with a friend, family member, or in a hotel to avoid the risk of frozen pipes or health issues. 4. Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing A broken heater doesn’t just affect comfort, but it can also put your plumbing at risk. Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant water damage. To help prevent freezing: Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air around plumbing. Let faucets drip slowly to keep water moving. If your home has multiple stories, keep doors open between rooms to allow even air circulation. If temperatures in your home drop below 55°F, your pipes may be at risk, so monitor them closely until the heat is restored. 5. Call a Professional HVAC Technician If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a certified expert . Heating systems have complex electrical, mechanical, and safety components, so attempting repairs without training can be dangerous. At Custom Cooling & Heating, our technicians diagnose heater breakdowns quickly and offer reliable solutions to get your home warm again. Whether it’s a faulty ignitor, blower motor issue, dirty flame sensor, or aging furnace components, we’ll pinpoint the problem and recommend the most cost-effective fix. 6. Consider the Age of Your Heater If your heater is over 12–15 years old, repeated breakdowns may be a sign that it’s time for replacement. Older units lose efficiency, struggle to maintain consistent temperatures, and can increase your energy bills. A new high-efficiency heating system can: Reduce monthly utility costs Improve indoor air quality Deliver more consistent comfort Provide safer, more reliable performance Our team can help you compare repair vs. replacement options, so you can make the best choice for your budget and home. 7. Prevent Future Breakdowns with Regular Maintenance Once your heat is restored, the best way to avoid another winter surprise is to schedule annual furnace maintenance . Preventive service keeps your system running smoothly and can catch small issues before they turn into emergencies. Routine maintenance from Custom Cooling & Heating includes: Full system inspection Cleaning and lubrication Filter replacement Safety checks Efficiency testing Not only does this reduce the risk of winter breakdowns, but it also extends the life of your equipment. Stay Warm with Reliable Winter Heating Support A broken heater in the middle of winter can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone. The experts at Custom Cooling & Heating are here to restore your comfort quickly and safely. Whether you need emergency repairs , routine maintenance , or a new system installation , our team is ready to help. Need fast heating service? Contact Custom Cooling & Heating today and let us bring the warmth back to your home.
