Today I want to talk about why you need to not forget about keeping your garage cool and 5 ways to help do that in the heat of the summer.

According to a recent article in Realtor.com, HVAC pros agree that your garage could be one of the most vulnerable and overlooked spaces when it comes to heat damage.

Items such as paint, electronics, and tools can break down or become hazardous when stored in high temperatures. Batteries swell or leak, power tools get damaged, and things like gasoline, oil, and fertilizers stored in a very hot environment could be more flammable. That's why garage temperature control is more than just a comfort issue.

When a garage is very hot and adjacent to interior rooms of your home, the strain on adjacent rooms may cause your air conditioner to work overtime.

For anyone using the garage as a gym, workshop, or office, heat isn't just uncomfortable - it can be a safety issue. Heat stroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion can all occur more quickly than most people realize, particularly in a room with restricted air flow.

So here are 5 ways to keep your garage cool, according to HVAC experts:

1. Insulate your garage door and Insulate the walls and ceiling too.  Also seal any air leaks around doors allowing hot air to come into the garage.

2. Consider a mini-split air conditioner.

3. Install an exhaust fan or turbine vent

4. Leave your garage door open - This one is simple but effective: Crack your garage door 3 to 4 inches open to improve ventilation and allow your garage to remain cool.  Hottest part of the day is 2 to 4pm, and if the sun is on that part of the house, be sure the doors are closed so you don't bake the inside of your garage.

5. Use a smart thermostat

I hope this information has been helpful.  And remember if you are buying and/or selling, my team and I are on standby 7 days a week, ready to help you take the smoother road to sold.