HVAC experts?

[MLimpert]

I'm in the process of building a detached garage. It will be well insulated and 28x40 with a 9 foot ceiling installed. What is the best option for heating and cooling? I have gas readily available, and can get it to the building with not much trouble. I would also love to have A/C if I can afford to do it. Should I try to find a used home furnace? What are my BTU requirements?



Any suggestions or ideas?

 

[bmoeller]

If the pad hadn't been poured, I'd suggest radiant heat in the floor. Radiant heat from the ceiling isn't bad, but the heat doesn't warm the concrete under a vehicle to well. Can still feel cold underneath for a while.

A window A/C should work just fine for that space.

 

[WDixon27]

if you shop around you can find a pretty good deal online on new stuff if that's your preference, i just got a rheem 5 ton heat pump delivered for $2500 and am seriously thinking about installing it myself (would of done it already but was in a wreck not quite 2 months ago and broke my hand, it's just about good enough to do the work now) i am no expert on home systems though automotive is more of my area, but i am tired of being dorked by ac guys and like the idea of building the system my way so i can service it, as to what will work for you you need to decide, heres a example of one system Budget Heating & Air Conditioning - Wholesale Prices To The Public

2-2. 5 ton outta serve that area ok

 

[hammersley]

More expensive at the beginning BVUT will save you every day

you have it - 70% SAVINGS Oo. You have the space----a no brainer... and you could also retrofit your house with the same system!!!!



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When my system needs replacing that's what I'm doing!!!

 

[mgoncalves]

You need to decide first whether you want to do this yourself on the cheap, or if you want it done by a contractor.



As an HVAC contractor, I have seen lots of homegrown systems that are either flat out dangerous, or just don't work that well. My advice would be to talk to a reputable contractor, and see what they suggest based on your needs. There is a lot that goes into selecting and sizing a system that needs to be looked at.



Beware of buying hvac equipment online, there is no warranty, and you are just being sold a box. They don't care how, or if it works out for you, they just want to move equipment. Most manufacturers are good about preventing online sales, but it seems you can always find Goodman out there.

 

[MLimpert]

I was thinking pretty hard about doing floor heat, but when it came down to it, I just ran out of time. If I could have gotten vacation last week I would have tied floor heat under the slab for sure.



I wouldn't be opposed to doing a portion of the work myself, but I still want it to be done right, so I would probably need someone there to hold my hand a little bit. I would also prefer that it doesn't burn down because of me on the first cold night



I have a call in to one of my customers who is a HVAC guy. I'll wait to see what he has to offer.



Thanks for your help guys! Anyone want to come over and trade a geothermal system for a few cold refreshments?