Best Mini Split Heat Pump/AC for Garage (For 1,2,3,4 Car Garage)

The best mini split for garage use is a quality heat pump with proven reliability. And it should probably be rated for more square feet than your garage – especially if yours is an uninsulated garage or poorly insulated.

Let’s talk about the best garage mini split systems with suggestions you can purchase today or click on for further research.

Our goal is to give you information to help you choose a ductless mini split system that is right for your garage workshop or other outdoor building.

Fun Fact First! The first AC was as big as a garage! When Willis H. Carrier, the father of air conditioning, invented the first centrifugal refrigeration machine in Syracuse, New York in 1922, it was so large that it would have completely filled one of our large garages today!

ACs vs Heat Pumps

The basic difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is that while an air conditioner will cool the indoor space, a heat pump will either cool or heat. Some units must be manually set to either ‘cool’ or ‘heat’, but some have the ability to switch from cool to heat and back, depending on the indoor temperature setting.

If you only use your garage in the summer, then an AC mini split is all you need. However, for a small boost in price, you can have a heat pump. In fact, most mini split systems are made as heat pumps – not air conditioners only.

What Size Mini Split for Garage Use?

We make it easy with this table. It shows garages from normal-sized one to three car garages up to large garages where you might store multiple cars, have a garage workshop, etc.

What size mini split for garage?

Garage Size	Mini Split Capacity	Garage Example
240 sq ft	6,000 Btu	12x20 small garage (1 car)
350 sq ft	9,000 Btu	16x20 garage
400 sq ft	9,000 Btu	20x20 medium garage (2 car)
450 sq ft	9,000 Btu	20x22 garage
576 sq ft	12,000 Btu / 1 Ton	24x24 large garage (2 car)
650 sq ft	12,000 Btu / 1 Ton	22x28 garage (3 car)
1,000 sq ft	18,000 Btu / 1.5 Ton	30x30 garage
1,200 sq ft	24,000 Btu / 2 Ton	30x40 garage
1,500 sq ft	30,000 Btu / 2.5 Ton	30x50 garage
2,400 sq ft	48,000 Btu / 4 Ton	40x60 garage

What size mini split for a 24×24 garage?

For a 24×24 garage, a 12,000 BTU system is the right size. But if your garage is poorly insulated and your climate is extreme, consider stepping up one size.

Where to Install Mini Split in Garage?

That’s a question we often get – worded something like that.

A ceiling mount indoor unit, like a cassette indoor unit, will give you the best air coverage.

However, many of the best garage mini splits have wall mount indoor units. So, we recommend placing the indoor unit on an outside wall, which is the easiest/most affordable installation location.

Some garages only have one exterior wall not counting the garage door wall. So, your options might be limited.

We do not recommend placing the indoor unit too near a window or the garage door. Other than those precautions, it can go on any exterior wall.

The Best Mini Split for Garage Use

Here are the top mini split systems for garage installation.

You’ll find the best heat pumps for garages of various sizes and the top rated in other categories to help you choose the best heat pump for your specific garage needs.

Best Mini Split for Garage Overviews

In this section, we give you quick, bullet-point summaries of the top heat pumps for garages. This makes it easy to find one that suits your needs, buy it if you wish, and get on with your day.

Full reviews of the best garage ductless heat pumps and ACs are found below for further research.

Mini Splits for a Small to Medium (1 to 1.5 car) Garage

Garages in this size vary from 240 square feet to 450 square feet and are best suited for a ductless mini split up to 9,000 BTU.

Mitsubishi and Midea both manufacture small, 6,000 BTU models which are not included in this review.

While there are no specific models on this list, any of the 9,000 to 12,000 BTU heat pumps below work great in 1 to 1.5-car garages because garages don’t usually have the same level of insulation homes do – so a little extra heating and cooling power might be appreciated.

BEST FOR 2 Car Garage

Mini Splits for a Large (2 to 3 car) Garage

Garages in this size are from 500 to 1,000 square feet and need for a mini split from 12,000 BTU to 18,000 BTU. But again, if your weather is extreme and your garage isn’t well-insulated, consider a 24,000 BTU heat pump listed below.

Highest Rated for 3 Car Garage

Mini Splits for a Very Large (4 car +) Garage

Garages in this size are from 1,200 to 2,400 square feet and are best suited for a mini split from 24,000 BTU to 48,000 BTU.

Mini Split for Garage Reviews

Here are more details that allow you to determine which one is the best choice for your garage.

Mini Splits for a Small to Medium (1 to 2 car) Garage

Klimaire 9,000 BTU Ductless Mini-Split Inverter Air Conditioner Heat Pump System with 15-ft Installation Kit Wall Bracket

Klimaire is known for making cost-effective heat pumps with good quality. They are a great value.

When you select the price check below, you can review this heat and AC unit or select from more sizes – 9K, 12K (115V and 208/230V options), 24K and 30K BTUs.

Features:

• Remote Control with 5 Modes and many additional functions
• Outdoor unit is pre-charged to accommodate up to 25 ft of refrigerant tubing
• Sleek Indoor Wall mount unit with Auto Clean function

Pros:

• Quiet Operation
• DIYers report ease of installation
• Super-quiet operation as low as 25dB

Cons:

• Professional installation may be costly – get quotes
• User’s manual is rather vague in places

In Our View:

Klimaire brands have been around for more than 25 years with millions of units sold in more than 70 countries around the world. This 9K unit has above-average heating and cooling efficiency, and the remote is loaded with features that will enable you to get the comfort you want whatever the weather.

Cooper & Hunter 9,000 BTU, 115V, 19 SEER Ductless Mini Split AC/Heating System MIA Series Pre-Charged Inverter Heat Pump with 16ft Installation Kit

C&H is a reliable brand of AC heat pumps for use in the garage, home, and anywhere else.This unit also comes in a range of sizes, so select the link and choose from 9K to 36K.

You can select the WiFi USB module for WiFi control with any smart device and the app.

Features:

• Wi-Fi Enabled
• Multi-function Remote
• Whisper Technology for Quiet Operation
• Activated carbon easy to clean filters

Pros:

• Great at removing humidity as it cools
• Many highly satisfied purchasers

Cons:

• Installation only by a Licensed HVAC Installer for the warranty to be valid

In Our View:

The rapidly growing Cooper & Hunter brand is now found in over 50 countries worldwide. This 9K mini split system is in C&H’s MIA series, which is their economical line which still maintains a high efficiency rating. Its 7/5-year warranty provides protection better than many in the industry.

Mini Splits for a Large (2 to 3 car) Garage

MRCOOL – DIY-12-HP-115B25 DIY 12k BTU 22 SEER Ductless Heat Pump Split System 3rd Generation – Energy Star 120v

MrCool is the leading brand of truly DIY heat pumps. They are highly rated and recommended. We have highlighted the 12,000 BTU ductless heat pump, but it is available in 18K, 24K and 36K BTU models too. Just click the link and choose the size – keep in mind it doesn’t hurt to go a little “too large” in an uninsulated garage or one with poor insulation.

Features:

• Easy DIY Installation
• Smartphone App Control from anywhere
• Digital Assistant Ready

Pros:

• Energy Star Certified
• Pre-charged, sealed refrigerant lines
• Quiet and cool operation

Cons:

• Complaints about Customer Service
• Refrigerant lines are packaged separately and are sometimes missing

In Our View:

MRCOOL is one of the very few manufacturers that makes a true DIY Mini Split and honors the warranty when installed by an “amateur”. This 12K system has a very high SEER, is Energy Star certified, includes the SmartHVAC remote, and has loads of very positive reviews and ratings from customers. Looks like a keeper!

Bosch Ultra-Quiet 18K BTU 230V Mini Split Air Conditioner & Hyper Heat System Gen 2 with Inverter Heat Pump

Energy Star certified efficiency and a powerful inverter compressor combine to give you effective and yet efficient heating and cooling all year. This Generation 2 system features improvements and upgrades along with proven Bosch quality.

This unit is ideal for air conditioning your garage, and it is a cold climate heat pump because it can draw heat from air that is sub zero in temperature.

Features:

• Simple and sleek indoor wall mount air handler unit
• Wireless back-lit remote with Silent mode, timer, Follow-Me, and Turbo speed settings
• Factory-installed base pan heater on outdoor unit

Pros:

• Energy Star Certified
• Easy to clean filter removes from top of air handler

Cons:

• Defrost mode a little noisy
• Instructions low quality

In Our View:

There aren’t a lot of reviews on this unit yet, but Bosch is one of the HVAC brands that has a solid reputation. Known for reliability and a budget-friendly price, their 2^nd Gen mini splits deliver quiet and efficient heating and cooling. This 18K unit will provide quality air in a large, 2 to 3 car garage.

Mitsubishi 18,000 BTU SEER 18 Wall Mount Ductless Mini-Split Inverter Cool & Heat Pump System 1.5 Ton Energy Efficient with Lines & Pads

Energy Star certified efficiency and a powerful inverter compressor combine to give you effective and yet efficient heating and cooling all year. This Generation 2 system features improvements and upgrades along with proven Bosch quality.

This unit is ideal for air conditioning your garage, and it is a cold climate heat pump because it can draw heat from air that is sub zero in temperature.

Features:

• Slim and compact Inverter-driven compressor
• “Smart Set” feature to recall a setting with one button
• 5 fan speeds from ‘Quiet’ to ‘Super High’
• Outdoor Condenser plastic pad included

Pros:

• Very quiet when running
• Installers find it easy to install

Cons:

• At the higher end price-wise

In Our View:

Mitsubishi has been at the forefront of the mini split industry for 50 years. Recently partnered with Trane, they are known for quality, and this 18K unit has mostly 5 star reviews with the manufacturer. Licensed HVAC installers report that it’s among the best and most trouble-free to install.

Mini Splits for a Very Large (4 car +) Garage

MrCool DIY 24k BTU 20 SEER Ductless Heat Pump Split System 3rd Generation – Energy Star 240V with Line Set Cover & IR WIFI Thermostat

If you’re committed to DIY, then MrCool, aka Mr Cool, is the top brand. This unit is efficient and gives you the convenience of WiFi connectivity. Turn it on or off from the house or from your car on the way to or from work. So easy!

Features:

• SmartHVAC App for wireless control from anywhere
• Auto Start after power outage
• Auto mode that automatically determines when to heat or cool depending on a set temperature
• Sleep mode regulates temperature while you sleep for maximum energy efficiency

Pros:

• Line set cover included (usually an option)
• Super quiet operation

Cons:

• Line set doesn’t arrive with other boxes at times
• Instructions somewhat vague in places

In Our View:

MRCOOL has sold so many of their DIY units to so many people who are highly satisfied that we place this 24K model as one of the best.

The high efficiency rating makes it Energy Star qualified. This means that along with the money you can save by installing it yourself, you may also receive a tax credit at the local or state level.

Pioneer Air Conditioner WYS036G-17 Wall Mount Ductless Inverter+ Mini Split Heat Pump, 36000 BTU-208/230 V

Pioneer makes a surprising number of highly rated heat pumps for garage installation or other location including your home.

If you need more than one or want another size, select the link and browse and choose options from 9,000 BTU to 36,000 BTU.

Features:

• 4 Operating Modes; cooling, heating, dehumidification and ventilation
• Auto Switchover from cool to heat
• Night mode, Timer and Auto Restart
• Smart Controller Kit for Wireless Internet Worldwide Access available as an option

Pros:

• Refrigerant lines also available in 10, 25, 33 and 50 foot lengths
• Installers report moderately easy to install

Cons:

• SEER is on the lower side
• Noise level higher than average

In Our View:

Parker Davis HVAC International, Inc. – the maker of Pioneer Mini Splits – has been producing mini split systems since 1995. The WYS series is made in 8 different models from 9,000 BTU to 36,000 BTU. This largest one is a very popular choice for thousands of satisfied customers, as the ratings show. We think it’s a great choice for an uninsulated garage or any other application.

Senville SENA-36HF/T Tri Zone Mini Split Air Conditioner Cold-Climate Heat Pump, 36000 BTU, White

Why would you want a multi-zone system in the garage? Because having indoor units spread throughout the space allows for even heating and cooling and better air flow.

Senville makes a quality heat pump system!

Features:

• User friendly remote controls (3) included
• Turbo Mode, Dehumidification only, Timer Function, Follow Me Function
• Ionizing Air Filter
• Wi-Fi Enabled for complete control from wherever you have an internet connection
• A quad zone / 4 zone system is available when you click the link

Pros:

• Three 12,000 BTU indoor units for even distribution of cooled or heated air
• Energy Star Certified

Cons:

• Need at least one longer line set to adequately separate the indoor units
• Professional installation is recommended

In Our View:

Since 2005 Senville has been a leading retailer of mini split air conditioners and efficient heating and cooling products. We chose this 3-zone model as a good choice for a very large garage, since the three indoor units will be mounted several feet apart from each other. This 36K model has a great SEER and many high reviews.

Garage Mini Split FAQ’s

If I put a ductless mini split in my unheated garage, will I need an additional electrical circuit?

Yes. The outdoor unit must be connected to a power source. It is always recommended, if not required by local code, that there be a dedicated disconnect box near the outdoor unit.

Some mini splits operate on 110/120V, but most require 220/230V. Whether this power comes from inside the garage itself, or from another building – additional wiring, a separate circuit and circuit breaker will be needed. The link below will guide you to the circuit breaker box size required for your mini split.

What Size Breaker For 12,000 – 36,000 Btu Mini Split? 

How much can I expect my electric bill to go up if I have a mini split heat pump installed in my garage?

There are several factors that will determine this, such as: size (BTU output) of the mini split, outdoor temperature, and temperature setting of the indoor unit(s).

This article will help you determine the approximate amount of electricity your mini split will use. You will then need to find out (from your current electric bill) what you are paying per KW hour and multiply that by the usage you expect from your unit.

How Much Electricity Does an Air Conditioner Use?

What is the best way to know what size ductless mini split I need for my garage?

If you know what part of the country (USA) that you live in, the size of your garage, if it’s insulated or not, and how much sun exposure it normally gets, click the link below. Just enter that information into the handy calculator and you’ll come up with an answer to this question.

Mini Split Btu Calculator – What Size Ductless AC/Heat Pump Do I Need?

Can you heat a garage with a mini split?

Mini split heat pumps are heating and cooling units. So, if you want to heat the garage, choose a heat pump rather than an AC-only mini split.

How many BTU do I need for a 2 car garage?

9,000 to 12,000 BTU units are most recommended for garages, but if your climate is extreme and your garage doesn’t have a lot of insulation, then an 18,000 BTU mini split should be considered too.

Can you install a mini split in a garage?

Absolutely. They are a great choice in the garage because they don’t require ductwork – they’re ductless systems. If you have an uninsulated garage, then make sure to oversize your system a little (or a lot) to be sure it properly cools or heats the space. And think about adding insulation to the ceiling and in exposed wall cavities where possible.

Can I run mini split lines inside a wall?

Yes, but we recommend running them through the wall and then down the outside wall. If the line is in the wall – covered by drywall and siding, for example, it is much more difficult to check or repair if it leaks or has other issues.

Do mini splits need a drain?

Mini splits to remove humidity from the air, so yes, they need a drain. But the installation kit includes a drain line that runs to the outside of the house to get rid of the condensed moisture.

Can you put a mini split condenser in the garage?

This question could be asked by people with different ideas of what they are trying to do. So:

Not if you’re trying to heat or cool the garage.

The condenser needs to be outside, so that it can vent heat to the outside air. If the condenser were indoors and you had the unit in AC mode, for example, it would collect heat from the air and dump it right back into the air – like having a window air conditioner inside with the window closed.

Even if the mini split is to cool indoor air, it is best to place the condenser outside. If it were in the garage, the heat from the house that is dumped into the garage would build up, making the garage very warm. Eventually, the efficiency of the mini split would be significantly diminished as a result of not being able to “dump” the heat into an already-hot garage.