Cooling a garage without any windows is a real challenge. Traditional portable air conditioners require window access for exhaust, making them a poor fit for fully enclosed garages. But if you’re using your garage as a workshop, gym, or studio, you still need relief from the heat. Fortunately, there are powerful, practical solutions that don’t rely on window access. In this guide, we’ll explore the best portable air conditioning options for garages with no windows—no nonsense, just what works.
Can You Use a Portable AC in a Garage Without Windows?
Yes, you can cool a garage without a window, but not with a standard portable AC unless you modify the exhaust path. These units need to vent hot air, and without that, they’ll actually make the room hotter. That’s where windowless cooling systems like evaporative coolers come in. Or, if you’re willing to vent through a ceiling, wall, or custom duct, a traditional AC can still be an option.
We’ll cover both approaches in this guide:
- Evaporative (Swamp) Coolers: No hose, no venting, ideal for dry climates.
- Vent-Modded Portable ACs: Require custom venting (drop ceiling, door, wall).
Best Ventless Options: Evaporative Coolers
1. Hessaire MC18M Portable Evaporative Cooler – Best Overall
If you want powerful airflow without worrying about hoses or vent kits, the Hessaire MC18M is the top pick. This compact beast cools garages up to 500 sq ft by using evaporative cooling—pulling in hot air, running it over water-saturated pads, and pushing out cooler air. No exhaust needed.
- Cooling Capacity: Up to 500 sq ft
- Tank Size: 4.8 gallons
- Airflow: 1,300 CFM
Pros:
- No venting or ducting needed
- Energy-efficient (uses just 85 watts)
- Wheels for easy repositioning
Cons:
- Only works well in dry climates
- Needs regular water refills
2. Honeywell CO60PM – Best for Large Garages
This Honeywell cooler is a heavy-duty option for garages over 600 sq ft. It’s weather-resistant, so it works well for open or semi-outdoor garage spaces. With a massive 15.8-gallon tank, you’ll get hours of continuous cooling without refilling.
- Cooling Capacity: Up to 850 sq ft
- Airflow: 1,540 CFM
- Tank Size: 15.8 gallons
Pros:
- Built for large areas
- Durable construction
- Remote control included
Cons:
- Large and heavy (over 40 lbs empty)
- May be overkill for smaller garages
3. NewAir AF-310 – Best Budget Evaporative Cooler
For smaller garages or personal cooling zones (like a workbench), the NewAir AF-310 is a solid, affordable choice. It combines fan, humidifier, and evaporative cooling in a tower design that fits just about anywhere.
- Coverage: Up to 200 sq ft
- Modes: Cool, Fan, Humidify
- Controls: Remote + LED panel
Pros:
- Great for small spaces
- Super quiet operation
- Under $150
Cons:
- Limited to spot cooling
- Less airflow than others
Best ACs for Garages Without Windows (If You Can Vent Elsewhere)
4. Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable AC – Best High-End Option
If you can vent through a wall, ceiling, or door, the Midea Duo is worth every penny. It’s one of the quietest, most efficient portable air conditioners available, featuring an advanced dual-hose system and smart Wi-Fi controls.
- BTU: 12,000 SACC (14,000 ASHRAE)
- Room Size: Up to 550 sq ft
- Noise Level: 42 dB (on low)
Pros:
- Whisper-quiet
- App control + Alexa/Google voice
- Extremely efficient
Cons:
- Must be vented—even if not through a window
- Pricier than others
5. Whynter ARC-14S – Best Dual-Hose Performance
The Whynter ARC-14S is another dual-hose AC that performs well in sealed garages—if you can make an alternate venting path. It includes cooling, fan, and dehumidifier modes and has a powerful 14,000 BTU output (9,500 SACC).
- Room Size: Up to 500 sq ft
- Energy Efficiency Ratio: 11.2
- Hose Length: 5 feet
Pros:
- High cooling capacity
- Strong airflow
- Auto-drain for convenience
Cons:
- Heavy (over 80 lbs)
- Loud on high setting
Comparison Table: Best Portable AC Options for No-Window Garages
| Model | Type | Coverage | Venting Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hessaire MC18M | Evaporative Cooler | 500 sq ft | No | General garage cooling |
| Honeywell CO60PM | Evaporative Cooler | 850 sq ft | No | Large garages/workshops |
| NewAir AF-310 | Evaporative Cooler | 200 sq ft | No | Budget/small spaces |
| Midea Duo | Portable AC | 550 sq ft | Yes | Smart, quiet cooling |
| Whynter ARC-14S | Portable AC | 500 sq ft | Yes | Heavy-duty AC |
What to Consider Before Buying
- Climate: Evaporative coolers work best in dry areas (low humidity).
- Room Size: Choose the right coverage rating to match your garage’s square footage.
- Noise Levels: Consider decibel ratings if you’ll be working or relaxing in the space.
- Venting: If you pick a traditional AC, plan ahead for wall, ceiling, or door venting options.
- Mobility: Wheels and handles help with repositioning the unit in large garages.
Conclusion
You don’t need a window to cool your garage—you just need the right kind of cooling system. If your climate is dry, an evaporative cooler like the Hessaire MC18M or Honeywell CO60PM offers a powerful, hose-free solution. On a budget? The NewAir AF-310 brings great value for spot cooling. If you can install alternate venting, high-performance portable ACs like the Midea Duo or Whynter ARC-14S provide real air conditioning even in enclosed garages.
Match your space, climate, and cooling needs—and transform your garage into a space you can actually enjoy year-round.