Air conditioner gone

Deborah T
by Deborah T
strict condo association doesn't allow window units. How can I survive the heat?
  15 answers
  • You can always install a ductless mini split unit. Mitsubishi has some very good systems.
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Jun 29, 2013
    Ceiling fans and lots of Ice cold lemonade? Would they allow a fixed wall unit to be installed? You can also get floor models that vent through a window with a small duct. http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Honeywell+-+10%2C000+BTU+Portable+Air+Conditioner+-+White/8478046.p?id=1218877697316&skuId=8478046&ref=06&loc=01&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=8478046&extensionType={adtype}:{network}&s_kwcid=PTC!pla!{keyword}!{matchtype}!{adwords_producttargetid}!{network}!{ifmobile:M}!{creative}&kpid=8478046&k_clickid=57a95526-61c1-76a9-2b66-00005952e4db
  • The Air Conditioning Guy The Air Conditioning Guy on Jul 03, 2013
    I agree with both of the previous comments. A ductless mini split system would be the most efficient and quiet way to cool your condo. Portable unit however, would be the less expensive option. If you go with ductless mini split option you will need to find a location for the outdoor unit to sit that wont be a problem with the association. You'll also need to run a new electrical circuit to the outdoor unit, copper pipes and a drain pipe for indoor unit. Portable unit would be a little noisy and you wont be able to open the window unless you remove the hose and window kit. Kind of a hassle. Final option would be to join the association or get other condo owners to join together and argue to at least let you put them in for the summer only. I would argue it's uninhabitable otherwise!!!
  • Deborah T Deborah T on Jul 04, 2013
    Thank you for all of your advice, I really appreciate it!
  • If you already have an ac system that died. Your best method of repair is to replace the system. Mini-Splits are great, however they require running pipes to every unit which may not be allowed in a Townhouse environment as they can detract from the outside if not properly done. Also the cost of these systems are much more than just installing a new coil and outdoor unit. The only other method of cooling is to purchase a freestanding mobile unit that has a small pipe that is fitted with a small panel in the window that connects to the unit that you roll into the room(s) your looking to cool. They have a water pan that needs to be drained as well. They do not stick out of the window and you can hardly even know that the pipe is in the window opening. I am sure the association would allow this type of unit as they do not stick out and can be removed in 2 min should you need to move the unit into another room to cool it. http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Air-Conditioners/Portable-Air-Conditioners/abcat0907004.c?id=abcat0907004
    • Jay Taylor Jay Taylor on Aug 04, 2014
      @Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com I do agree that Ductless split systems are extremely versatile and can be used to provide cool comfort for a variety of different applications. As far as efficiency goes, Minisplit fair pretty well.So enjoying the afternoon in a chilled environment with the help of amini-split air conditioning unit. These units are extremely useful for heating and cooling a small area of your house.
  • Jennifer G Jennifer G on Aug 04, 2014
    I'm guessing that Florida is too humid for a portable (indoor) swamp cooler to be effective? Do you have Blackout curtains/shades on your windows to prevent heat from seeping inside? They can help A LOT and are available in most big box stores, online and from custom window covering companies. I keep mine closed in the rooms that face the sun (east side in the morning, west side in the afternoon/evening) and the difference is amazing.
  • Jennifer your correct. Swamp coolers are fine in areas of the country where humidity levels are low enough so the evaporation effect will cool the air. Florida is not one of them. They do use them in areas such as kitchens where large amounts of air are simply pulled into and out of the indoor environment where ventilation is required.
  • K williams K williams on Jun 01, 2015
    You could install a free-standing unit that only has a thin vent that you can close a double-hung window down onto. They come in 8,000 up to 12,000 but sizes and nothing is seen hanging outside.
  • Capernius Capernius on Jun 02, 2015
    this is one of so many reasons why I dislike condos... whichever direction you choose to go, I wish you the best. Peace
  • Snap Out Of It Snap Out Of It on Jul 31, 2015
    Free standing units are great buy off season to get lower price
  • Loretta Tyler Loretta Tyler on Jul 31, 2015
    portable air conditioner
  • Denise Denise on Aug 09, 2015
    If you can afford it, Misubishi now has individual room a/c's you put up on the walls. That or a ceiling fan and a freestanding tower fan, but not the same
  • Moxie Moxie on Jan 15, 2016
    I know this will sound hillbilly but until you get a better solution; a free option is ice in a shallow pan in front of a fan..worked for me in school
  • Diana Simpson Diana Simpson on Jan 16, 2016
    if you are renting it is in your lease they have to provide air not heat but Air is a law in florida