AC enclosure

Man, this heat it totally killing me, hence I'm buying an AC window unit. Now my question revolves around the fact that I want to either built, or place some sort of an enclosure around the unit, for aesthetic reasons. That way it doesn't *look* like I have an AC sticking out the side of my house because from the street it would look rather unsightly; the unit will be positioned very close the the ground. I was wondering what sort of clearance or "breathing room" the AC needs to function properly. For instance if I were to throw a wood box around the unit, how far should the wood be from the vents to still work right?

Thanks guys!

Toastysquirrel, welcome to the forum I hope you will find it useful.

Since I never heard of a housing for the window AC before and think it rather dangerous building such a enclosure around it taking the different airstreams that got to stay free into consideration I'm afraid I cannot help you further. I've tried to read up on it but I stick with my opinion. Rather have this look ugly than taking any chances to mess up the aircirculation

Thanks Jeffie, I think you make a good point about not wanting to disrupt the airflow. I think I'll probably end up playing around with some ideas for the design if I can somehow leave the intake and exhaust unobstructed.

Good you took it this way, Toastysquirrel, thank you I agree, if the airflow can be left free that's the most important thing, if it can't then don't take any chances.

having worked as an AC Engineer for over 15 years i can say i have seen some weired and wonderful enclosures ranging from a carboard box to a brick outhouse. You can buy some off the shelf items that are mainly for weather proofing or anti-vandal issues.

May i suggest you look for HRP Refrigeration, RCL (refrigerator components Limited) or your local Climate Center for whats available.

As per the other posts any enclosure will affect the performance of the AC unit, use more energy and innevatively shorten the lifespan.

If you can live with it leave it alone or at worst do as B&Q reccomment and plant some shrubs in adjacent to it to hide it but don't block the airflow.

Happy hunting

Stuart

Well, thank you very much for the professional advise, Campervanstu It is much appreciated.