Alternatives to Window AC Units? (real estate, apartment, condo)

[retiree1]

I am about to move into a studio condo that does not have central AC. Since the best feature of the condo is the view, I am reluctant to install a window AC unit. Can anyone recommend an alternative? Will a portable AC unit work as well? Is the window exhaust duct that portable units require difficult to install? Are there inconveniences to a portable unit that I may not anticipate?

Thank you for the advice.

[NooYowkur81]

Originally Posted by retiree1

I am about to move into a studio condo that does not have central AC. Since the best feature of the condo is the view, I am reluctant to install a window AC unit. Can anyone recommend an alternative? Will a portable AC unit work as well? Is the window exhaust duct that portable units require difficult to install? Are there inconveniences to a portable unit that I may not anticipate?

Thank you for the advice.

They are easy to install. The newer models arent as big and cumbersome and many now come on caster wheels. They still tend to be rather big and will take up space in your apartment. They also dont work as well as a comparable window unit.

[rotodome]

Portables don't work as well as window units, but it's true that they don't block your window so much.

If the condo will allow it, you could have a split zone ductless unit put in (basically central air with no ducts). Those are great. Quiet, efficient, don't block windows. But you need to have either exterior wall or patio space to put an outdoor condenser, which may or may not be an option for you.

[barkomatic]

I bought a Frigidaire portable unit and I'm mostly happy with it. It cools the room very quickly and removing the ventilation hose from the window is a snap. I hate the way window A/C units look from the outside. It's inevitable that they get pigeon crap and grime after just a few months.

The one drawback is that mind is fairly loud. It doesn't bother me when I sleep but I generally turn it off to watch TV.

[babo111]

Portable AC works great but make sure you have sufficient BTU. Also while portable don't take up real estate of your window, it does take real estate of your floor and unsightly due to hose for exhaust and just fact that it's just sitting on your floor.

In addition, it is louder than window ac and during days with high humidity, you will need to dump out excess water. Even the best units with good self-evaporating built in.

Overall, if you are planning to stay there long time. I'd just get window. If not and you are planning to be moving around, portable is good to go.

[Kefir King]

I don't know HOW they get away with the rating on these in-room units. I have never seen one that put out anything CLOSE to the advertised BTU's. I strongly recommend against these monstrosities unless someone is stuck in a basement.

retiree,
Is there any way you can cut a sleeve "through the wall" to preserve your windows. I know that buildings usually balk any any installation that will deface the facade.

Failing that I recommend one of those low profile units that only come about a foot from the windowsill... it will preserve most of your view.



This Carrier model is only 8 inches high...but PRICEY.
http://ac-review.com/files/products/378_large.jpg (broken link)