Ultimate Guide to Heating and Cooling Your Garage Year-Round

November 27, 2024

Your garage is more than just a place to park your car or store tools—it’s a versatile space that can serve as a workshop, gym, home office, or even a hangout spot. But whether you're working on DIY projects, exercising, hosting friends, watching your favorite game, or simply using the space for extra storage, one thing is clear: comfort matters. If you've ever found your garage too cold to work in during winter or too hot in the summer, you know how important it is to have a climate-controlled space. Here’s your ultimate guide to heating and cooling your garage year-round. 

 

Why Should You Heat and Cool Your Garage?

Before diving into the best systems and methods, let’s look at why it’s beneficial to regulate the temperature in your garage: 


  • Year-Round Comfort: Extreme temperatures can make a garage feel uninhabitable during certain months. Heating your garage in the winter keeps it usable for projects, hobbies, or even parking your car. Cooling it during the summer ensures a more comfortable space for work or relaxation. 
  • Protecting Your Equipment: Sensitive tools, electronics, and vehicles can suffer damage from extreme temperatures. Heating and cooling help protect your investment by keeping everything in good working condition. Keeping items from freezing, having a climate-controlled space for pets, and stored items from sweltering heat are all great reasons to heat & cool a garage space. 
  • Increased Home Value: A climate-controlled garage adds usable square footage to your home. Whether you’re using it as a living area, home office, or storage space, a comfortable garage can increase the overall value of your property. 
  • Energy Efficiency: Modern heating and cooling systems are more energy-efficient than ever. With the right equipment, you can save on energy costs while still maintaining a comfortable environment. 

 

Best Heating Options for Your Garage 

When it comes to heating your garage, you want a solution that’s effective and cost-efficient, without wasting energy. Here are some of the best heating options: 

 

1. Space Heaters 

For smaller garages or quick spot heating, portable space heaters can be an affordable option. They’re easy to move and store and come in both electric and propane varieties. However, they may not provide even heating across larger spaces. 

 

2. Electric Garage Heaters 

Electric garage heaters are an excellent option for consistent heat. They come in wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted versions and are designed to provide steady warmth without taking up much space. Look for models with adjustable thermostats for better control over your garage’s temperature. 

 

  • Pros: Easy to install, low maintenance, no need for gas lines or venting, safe to use indoors. 
  • Cons: Can be more expensive to operate than gas-powered heaters. These units typically take a larger 240V circuit which may be difficult to install in a finished garage. 

 

3. Gas Heaters 

For larger garages or more intense heating needs, a gas-powered heater might be your best bet. These systems are capable of heating bigger spaces faster and more efficiently. Options include natural gas or propane models, both of which require proper ventilation.  Many installations are using a low-profile unit heater like a Modine Hot Dawg. 

 

  • Pros: More energy-efficient for larger spaces, lower operating costs compared to electric heaters. 
  • Cons: Installation can be more complex, requiring gas lines and venting. 

 

4. Infrared Heaters 

Infrared heaters provide heat by directly warming objects and people in their path, rather than heating the air. These are great for spot heating and will quickly raise the temperature around you, making it ideal for a garage that doesn’t need to be uniformly heated. Infrared heaters can be purchased in electric or gas (natural or LP) models. 

 

  • Pros: Energy-efficient, fast heating, no need to heat the entire space. 
  • Cons: May not be the best option for large, open garages. Ventless infrared heaters are also against code in many municipalities. 

 

5. Radiant Floor Heating    

Radiant floor heating involves installing electric or hydronic heating systems beneath your garage floor. This option provides consistent heat by warming the floor and allowing the heat to rise into the space. While it’s more expensive to install, it offers a luxurious level of comfort, particularly in cold climates. 

 

  • Pros: Even heat distribution, comfortable, energy-efficient in the long run. 
  • Cons: High initial installation costs and must be completed before concrete is poured. 

5 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill

May 29, 2024
High energy bills can strain your budget and leave you asking the question: “Where is all that energy going?”. Luckily, there are steps you can take to identify these issues and make your home more energy efficient. Here are 5 ways to lower your energy bill. Identifying the Problem Before you can reduce your energy bill, it is important to understand why it is so high to begin with. Many factors contribute to high energy usage: Poor Insulation : poor insulation in your home can result in heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer, causing your heating and cooling systems to work harder and consume more energy . Old Appliances : Outdated appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, and especially your heating and cooling systems are less energy-efficient than newer models and can contribute to high energy bills . Air Leaks : Drafty windows, doors, and gaps in walls or ceilings allow conditioned air to escape and outdoor air to come into your home, leading to increased energy usage. Overuse of Electronics : Leaving electronic devices, lights, and appliances on when not in use can waste energy and raise your electricity bill. Inefficient Lighting : Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume more energy and generate more heat than energy-efficient alternatives like LEDs or CFLs.

Best Cooling Options for Your Garage 

Just as a well-heated garage is essential during the winter months, cooling your garage in the summer helps ensure comfort and protect your belongings. Here are some of the best cooling systems for your garage: 

 

1. Portable Air Conditioners 

For those looking for a temporary and cost-effective cooling solution, a portable air conditioner can be a good option. These units are easy to set up, and many models come with hoses that vent warm air out of a window. 

 

  • Pros: Easy to install, portable, affordable. 
  • Cons: May not be suitable for larger garages, can be noisy. They must be vented outside which is typically not attractive and the portable unit typically is in the way. 

 

2. Window Air Conditioners 

If you have a window in your garage, a window-mounted air conditioner can be an efficient and budget-friendly cooling solution. It can cool the space quickly and is ideal for small to medium-sized garages. 

 

  • Pros: Cost-effective, easy to install, good for smaller garages. 
  • Cons: Requires a window, may not be powerful enough for larger garages. 

 

3. Ductless Mini-Split Systems 

Ductless mini-split air conditioners are one of the best solutions for cooling your garage. These systems consist of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor wall heads, making them ideal for garages without ductwork. A mini-split system provides both heating and cooling in one unit, making it a versatile solution for year-round comfort. 

 

  • Pros: Energy-efficient, easy to install, effective for larger spaces. These units are very quiet and are typically the most efficient way to heat & cool your garage space. 
  • Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires professional installation. In dirtier garages these may require more maintenance. 

 

4. PTAC or PTHP units. (Motel style units)

If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to heat and cool your garage, PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner) and PTHP (Packaged Terminal Heat Pump) units are a great option. These units are often mounted high on the wall and come with a remote thermostat for easy control. They offer electric heating, and you can choose between an A/C model (PTAC) or a heat pump model (PTHP) for year-round comfort 


  • Pros: Self contained unit and maybe installed by a DIY. 
  • Cons: Typically these units are noisier (this is a motel unit) and require a wall penetration. 

 

5. Insulation and Ventilation 

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable temperature in your garage year-round. Insulating the walls, ceiling, and garage door helps keep the heat in during winter and blocks out heat during summer. Additionally, installing ventilation systems such as exhaust fans or attic vents can help regulate airflow and temperature, keeping the air fresh and cool. 

 

  • Pros: Improves overall energy efficiency, helps keep temperatures stable. 
  • Cons: Initial investment in insulation materials and installation. 

 

Energy-Saving Tips for Year-Round Comfort 

  • Seal Gaps: Check for gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and the garage door itself. Sealing these areas prevents heat from escaping in the winter and keeps cool air in during the summer. 
  • Thermostat Control: Invest in a smart thermostat that allows you to schedule heating and cooling based on when you’ll be using the garage. This helps save energy and money. 
  • Use Fans: Ceiling fans or box fans can be used to circulate air in both hot and cold weather, improving comfort without the need for additional heating or cooling. 

 

Garage Cooling and Heating Solutions in Lincoln, Nebraska 

Heating and cooling your garage doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right system, you can create a comfortable environment for work, relaxation, or storage all year round. Whether you need a powerful heating system for winter, an efficient cooling option for summer, or a combination of both, Custom Cooling and Heating has the expertise to help you find the perfect solution for your garage. 

 

Contact us today if you’re ready to upgrade your garage’s comfort with a heating and cooling system. Breathe easier and work in comfort with the right system for your garage! 

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What Size HVAC System Does Your Home Actually Need?

October 5, 2026
A bigger furnace or air conditioner might sound like a safer choice, especially when you’re preparing for a Nebraska summer or winter. But equipment that is too large can cause comfort problems of its own. Equipment that is too small can struggle when temperatures reach their extremes. The right size depends on how much heating and cooling your home actually needs. If you’re planning an HVAC installation in Lincoln, NE, understanding how that need is calculated can help you make a more informed decision about your investment. Square Footage Is Only the Starting Point Two homes with the same square footage may need different HVAC systems. One might have well-insulated walls, newer windows, and plenty of shade. The other might have older windows, a large sun-facing living room, and rooms that are difficult to keep comfortable. A professional sizing assessment considers details such as: The home’s size and layout Insulation and air leakage Window size, type, and direction Ceiling heights Lincoln’s heating and cooling conditions The condition of your ductwork matters, too. Even equipment with the right capacity may struggle to keep every room comfortable if the ducts cannot deliver air effectively. The Problems Caused by an Oversized System An oversized air conditioner can cool the air near the thermostat quickly and shut off before it has run long enough to remove much moisture. Your home may reach the temperature you selected but still feel clammy. Short, frequent cycles can also mean more wear on the equipment. An oversized furnace may create noticeable swings between warm and cool instead of maintaining a steady temperature. The exact effects depend on the equipment and how the system is installed, but extra capacity does not automatically mean extra comfort. ENERGY STAR notes that oversized heating and cooling equipment can switch on and off rapidly, causing excess wear. A larger unit may also cost more upfront without solving the comfort issues that prompted the replacement. The Challenges of an Undersized System A system that is too small may have trouble meeting your home’s heating or cooling needs during very hot or cold weather. You might notice long run times and rooms that never seem to reach the thermostat setting. Longer run times alone do not prove a system is undersized. Some modern systems are designed to operate for extended periods at lower output. Dirty filters , duct problems, poor insulation, and other issues can also cause similar symptoms. That is why it helps to evaluate the whole home before assuming the equipment size is the problem. Check Your Home Before Choosing a System Your old HVAC system may not be the right size for your home today. New insulation, replacement windows, or a finished basement can change how much heating and cooling you need. Before selecting equipment, have a professional assess your home and discuss any rooms that are hard to keep comfortable. Ask how they chose the recommended size and whether your ductwork can support the new system. Those answers can help you choose an installation that fits your home and budget. Frequently Asked Questions Is a bigger HVAC system better for my home? No, a bigger HVAC system is not necessarily better. Oversized equipment can cycle frequently and may leave your home less comfortable, particularly when an air conditioner does not run long enough to remove enough humidity. Can I replace my old HVAC system with the same size? You can, but the old system’s size alone does not show what your home needs today. A fresh assessment is especially useful if you have had comfort problems or made changes to the house. What are signs that my HVAC system may be the wrong size? Frequent short cycles, uneven temperatures, persistent humidity, or difficulty reaching your thermostat setting can be signs of a sizing issue. Other problems can cause these symptoms, so a professional evaluation is the best next step. Plan Your HVAC Installation with Custom Cooling & Heating Choosing a new system means looking beyond the size of your current equipment. Custom Cooling & Heating has served Lincoln and the surrounding area since 1982 and can help you review your installation options.  To discuss HVAC installation in Lincoln, NE, explore our new installation services , request a free estimate , or call 402-489-9227 .

Signs Your HVAC System May Be Costing You More Than You Think

September 4, 2026
When utility bills begin to rise, it is natural to blame extreme temperatures or changing energy rates. However, part of the increase may be coming from an HVAC system that uses more energy than necessary. Many homeowners searching for heating and cooling in Lincoln, NE, do not realize how much efficiency has been lost until comfort problems or unusually high bills become difficult to ignore. Aging equipment, restricted airflow, leaking ducts, and missed maintenance can all make a system work harder to heat or cool the same space.  Custom Cooling & Heating has served Lincoln and the surrounding area since 1982. Our team can help identify the less obvious problems that affect your home’s comfort and energy use. Signs Your HVAC System May Be Wasting Energy An inefficient system does not always stop working completely. It may continue running while gradually using more energy and delivering less consistent comfort. Watch for signs such as: Utility bills rising without a clear change in household use Some rooms feeling warmer or colder than others Heating or cooling cycles that seem unusually long Frequent starts and stops Weak airflow from vents New noises, odors, or excess dust A system that struggles to reach the thermostat setting These warning signs can have several possible causes, which is why a professional evaluation is often the best way to find the source. Aging Equipment May Be Losing Efficiency Heating and cooling equipment experiences wear over time. Motors, electrical components, coils, and other parts may no longer operate as efficiently as they once did. Age alone does not automatically mean a system must be replaced. A well-maintained unit may continue providing dependable service, while a newer system with unresolved problems may still waste energy. However, rising bills, frequent repairs, uneven temperatures, and declining performance can indicate that it is time to compare HVAC repair and replacement . A technician can assess the system’s condition and help determine whether a repair could restore performance or a more efficient replacement may provide better long-term value. Airflow Problems Make the System Work Harder Your HVAC system relies on steady airflow to distribute conditioned air throughout the home. When that airflow is restricted, the equipment may need to run longer to reach the temperature set on the thermostat. A dirty filter is one of the most common causes of restricted airflow. Closed or blocked vents, buildup inside the system, blower motor problems, and poorly designed ductwork may also contribute. Check filters regularly and replace them based on the filter manufacturer’s directions and your home’s needs. If airflow remains weak after these basic checks, schedule professional service rather than continuing to lower or raise the thermostat. Leaky Ductwork Can Waste Conditioned Air The furnace or air conditioner may be operating correctly while the duct system loses heated or cooled air before it reaches your living spaces. Loose connections, gaps, holes, and missing insulation can allow conditioned air to escape into an attic, crawl space, basement, or garage. According to ENERGY STAR , a typical home can lose approximately 20% to 30% of the air moving through its duct system because of leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. Possible signs include uneven room temperatures, excessive dust, unusually high bills, or ducts located in unconditioned spaces that become very hot or cold. Proper sealing and insulation can improve comfort and reduce unnecessary system demand. Neglected Maintenance Allows Small Problems to Grow HVAC maintenance is designed to find developing issues before they cause a breakdown or a noticeable increase in operating costs. A system may continue running with dirty coils, worn parts, drainage problems, or incorrect settings, but it may use more energy in the process. During a maintenance visit, a technician can inspect the equipment, check electrical components, clean appropriate parts, evaluate airflow, and look for signs of wear. Custom Cooling & Heating offers maintenance memberships to help homeowners stay ahead of seasonal service needs and unexpected repairs. Find the Source of Rising Energy Bills A higher bill does not always mean you need a new furnace or air conditioner. Sometimes, replacing a filter, correcting an airflow issue, repairing a component, or sealing ductwork can make a meaningful difference. In other cases, aging or unreliable equipment may make replacement the more practical option. If you need help with heating and cooling in Lincoln, NE, Custom Cooling & Heating can evaluate your system and explain the available options. Contact our team or call 402-489-9227 to schedule a service. Frequently Asked Questions Why is my HVAC bill suddenly higher? Your HVAC bill may be higher because the system is using extra energy from weather, rate changes, airflow problems, duct leaks, equipment issues, or lost efficiency. How often should HVAC maintenance be scheduled? HVAC maintenance should usually be scheduled seasonally to keep the system efficient and catch small problems early. Does an old HVAC system always need to be replaced? No, an old HVAC system does not always need replacement. Its efficiency, repair history, condition, and comfort performance should guide the decision.