Question: Hello Robert. I’m writing in to ask about the extreme heat in my garage, in the summer. I do like to get out there for various projects year-round, but the summer heat is near unbearable out there. I certainly don’t want to invest in a separate air conditioner for that space. Is there anything else suitable that would cool the area down to make it more comfortable for me?
I’ve been told that a swamp cooler would work but am unfamiliar with such a thing and therefore don’t know much about them. What are your thoughts on that? Could I use something like that efficiently? Thank you for any help you can offer.
— Jim J.
Answer: Jim, a swamp cooler is an excellent option in this scenario. They now have portable units, which accept 4-5 gallons of water and can cool an area like that down as much as 28 degrees. The big box stores sell them, or you can make an online purchase.
The only downside, if you can call it that, is that you must continually add water as needed, and this can be as often as every three to four hours — not bad if you’re already out there working. I’d highly recommend this option. It’s the least expensive for what you’re looking for. Best of luck.
Robert Lamoureux has more than 40 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at [email protected].
