How to Keep Your Garage Cool
In the summer, garages become one of the hottest spots in the house, turning a useful space into a sweltering sauna.
Â
A recent heat dome across much of the United States made this especially clear, leaving many homeowners unable to use their garages comfortably.
Â
Whether you use yours for storage, projects, workouts, or just hanging out, keeping it cool can make a big difference. To make your garage a more functional part of your home year-round, consider these compact appliances.
Use Passive Cooling
Passive cooling means keeping your garage cool using natural methods, no fancy equipment needed (though we’ll cover some options in the next section).
Block the Sun
Start by adding shade. Use blinds or curtains on garage windows, or plant trees, hedges, or vines outside to block direct sunlight. Awnings can also help.
Let in Cool Air
Pay attention to when the sun hits your garage and when there’s a breeze. Open windows during cooler times (usually early morning or late at night) and try to create a cross breeze by opening windows on opposite sides.
Â
Once it warms up, shut the windows and close blinds to trap the cooler air inside.
Add Insulation
Insulating your garage helps keep it cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Consider insulating the walls, ceiling, and garage door. Also, seal any small gaps to keep hot air and bugs out.
Keep the Door Closed
Try not to leave the garage door open unless you're letting in cool air on purpose. Remind family members to shut it behind them.
Â
While passive cooling can go a long way, sometimes it’s not quite enough, especially during extreme heat. That’s where compact cooling appliances can help. We’ll cover some smart options next.
Use a High-Quality Fan
Once you’ve put some passive cooling measures in place, the next step is to boost airflow with a fan. But not just any fan, you’ll want one that’s designed to move air effectively and keep your space noticeably cooler. Investing in a high-quality model can make a big difference in comfort, especially when temperatures spike.
There are three types of fans that work well in garages:
- Floor fans
- Pedestal fans
- Wall-mounted fans
Floor fans are a great choice because they’re easy to move and can be positioned right where you need them, whether you’re working on a project or fitting in a workout. Since air is usually cooler closer to the ground, these fans do a good job of circulating more comfortable air.
When shopping for a floor fan, look for features like:
- Large, powerful blades for strong airflow
- A sturdy base that won’t tip easily
- Adjustable tilt for targeted cooling
- Multiple speed settings
- Protective blade guards for safety around kids and pets
- An efficient, long-lasting motor
Pedestal fans sit higher off the ground and are ideal for blowing air directly at you, perfect if you’re standing at a workbench or relaxing in a chair. Many models also come with an oscillating feature to help distribute air throughout the room. Some even have a built-in misting function, which is especially helpful for outdoor garage setups or open bays.
Â
Just like floor fans, pedestal fans typically allow you to adjust both the angle and speed, giving you full control over your comfort.
Â
Wall-mounted fans are best when floor space is limited or you want a consistent airflow from a specific direction. These are mounted off the ground, making them a smart option for homes with pets or young children. They’re also commonly used in spaces like stables or warehouses for that same reason.
Â
When installing a wall-mounted fan, consider the best location for pulling in fresh air or pushing out warm air. Many models come with the same features as floor and pedestal fans, but be sure to look for quiet operation, low vibration, and easy installation.
Â
Fans can go a long way in making your garage more livable, but during especially hot stretches, even the best fan might need a little backup. In the next section, we’ll explore compact cooling appliances that can help you stay comfortable without a major renovation.
Try Other Cooling Methods
High-quality fans can do a lot, but for maximum comfort, it helps to combine them with other cooling techniques. These methods can make your garage feel noticeably cooler.
Add an Exhaust Fan
Even the best fan won’t help much if hot air has nowhere to go. That’s where an exhaust fan comes in. Since warm air rises, the most effective option is one installed in the ceiling, where it can push hot air out of the space.
Â
If you don’t want to install a ceiling unit, there are simpler ways to exhaust hot air. If your garage has a window, consider a window fan that can reverse direction. This allows it to pull warm air out. You can also turn a regular box or window fan around so it blows outward, helping to vent hot air to the outside.
Reduce Heat Sources
Garages naturally trap heat, so you don’t want to add more. Start by keeping hot items, like your car, outside until it’s had time to cool down. It typically takes 30 to 45 minutes for an engine to stop giving off heat after being driven.
Â
Power tools and large appliances can also add unwanted heat. Try to use them during cooler parts of the day, unplug them when not in use, and consider moving heat-producing tasks outside when possible, like to your driveway or patio.
Improve Air Circulation
A cluttered garage traps hot air and limits airflow. Simply tidying up can help make the space feel cooler. As a bonus, you’ll have more room to enjoy the space and better access to cool air from fans and windows.
Pair Your Fan with Compact Cooling Appliances
If you live in a hot, humid climate, or are dealing with a major heatwave, a fan alone might not be enough. There are several small appliances that can boost cooling without needing major renovations.
- Use a dehumidifier: In humid areas, high moisture makes it hard for sweat to evaporate and cool you down. A dehumidifier removes that excess moisture, helping the air feel cooler and more breathable.
- Try an evaporative cooler: In dry climates, evaporative coolers are a great solution. These appliances blow air through a wet filter or add a fine mist to cool and moisturize the air. They work best in places with low humidity.
- Consider a portable air conditioner: Traditional AC units usually aren’t practical in a garage. A window unit may not fit, and mini-split systems can be costly and require permits. Portable air conditioners, on the other hand, are flexible and easy to install. Most come with an exhaust hose and window kit, and they often include features like a thermostat, timer, fan settings, and wheels for mobility.
- Cool down social spaces with a misting fan: If you use your garage as a rec room, hangout spot, or home bar, a misting fan can make a big difference. These fans use water from a built-in tank or garden hose to create a cooling mist, and they’re especially effective in dry climates like Las Vegas or Los Angeles.
Shop Newair for Garage Fans and More
At Newair, you’ll find a wide range of fans and compact appliances designed to keep your garage cool during the hottest months (or warm in the winter months). In addition to cooling solutions, we offer space-saving essentials like freestanding beverage fridges and chest freezers, perfect for making your garage more functional year-round.
Â
We’re a proud U.S.-based business built on customer trust. When you buy from us, you’re choosing a brand that values transparency, quality, and exceptional service. To learn more about us, click here.And don’t forget to register your garage fan to take full advantage of our warranty.
