We're in the process of finalizing our plans but we're concerned about the current air handler location as it eats up 3 ft of pantry depth. We aren't willing to place the two units in the attic but we would like to place then in the garage (possibly a closet in the garage space with appropriate firewall behind it). Is this a reasonable location? We live in a climate(Texas) that creates very hot garage space for at least half of the year though I'd imagine this is not an issue if built out properly (closet in garage). Please take a look at the plan attached and give me your thoughts. The entry door from the garage will actually be further back allowing for enough space immediately behing the kitchen at the corner of the garage. Also the garage is going to be widened three feet for additional space (though there is also a second detached two car garage planned)

Here is a link that might be useful: