HVAC Pros Share 5 Garage Cooling Tricks for Heatwaves

HVAC professionals are advising homeowners to take proactive measures to cool their garages, particularly during upcoming heatwaves, to prevent damage to stored items and reduce strain on home cooling systems. Garages can reach temperatures hotter than attics, posing risks to various belongings and potentially impacting the comfort and energy efficiency of adjacent living spaces. John Waldorf, vice president at Estes Services Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical in Atlanta, highlighted that heat damage can affect items like paint, electronics, tools, and pet food, leading to spoilage or hazardous conditions such as swollen batteries. He also noted that extreme garage heat can radiate into the home, forcing air conditioners to work harder and increasing energy bills. Furthermore, garages often store flammable materials like gasoline and oil, which can become more volatile in high temperatures, increasing fire risks. Proper ventilation and heat control are crucial in mitigating these dangers. For individuals using their garage as a workspace or gym, excessive heat can also pose health and safety concerns, including the risk of heat stroke and dehydration. The advice from HVAC experts aims to address these overlooked vulnerabilities, emphasizing that garage temperature control is essential for both protecting property and ensuring overall household safety and usability during summer months.