Window mounted air conditioners for example, are not allowed in many HOA neighborhoods. The logic behind this is usually that they create too much noise and take away from the exterior aesthetic of the home, which then impacts property values in the neighborhood.
A basic window unit typically has a lower initial cost than other models and is relatively easy to install, but they guzzle energy, straining electricity grids, and can contribute to the planet-warming emissions driving extreme heat. Here's how standard window air conditioners stack up against other cooling options.
The New Regulations
Starting January 1, 2025, all new residential air conditioners and heat pumps must utilize A2L refrigerants. Older refrigerants like R-410, which are likely the refrigerant used by your current system, are being phased out.
Split ACs are ideal for larger rooms and offer quieter operation but require professional installation and higher upfront costs. Window ACs are easier to install and more cost-effective but are noisier and less efficient.
Trapping Moisture Can Damage Your AC
If you cover your AC, make sure you use a breathable fabric or just something to cover the top. You will have problems if you use a heavy plastic or cover the sides. There is likely already some form of moisture inside your AC unit.
Covering your AC unit is not recommended. AC units are designed to withstand outdoor conditions and are built to be durable and weather-resistant. Covering the unit can trap moisture inside, which doesn't allow for proper ventilation. It can also provide a shelter for pests, like rodents, which may damage the unit.
A: Yes, it is possible to use a portable air conditioner without a window, but it may require some extra effort and may not be ideal.
Renter Rights in an HOA
Landlords transfer their right to use and enjoy common facilities and amenities to renters, but don't transfer their voting or membership rights.
In layman's terms, I think we can all agree that a fixture is something which initially was not attached to real property - such as an air conditioning window unit, or a wet bar which was installed in a house after it was built.
The two main cooling options for people who live in condos tend to be window ACs and wall-mounted ACs. As indicated above, the rules of your association may steer you toward one of these options, but if there are no rules prohibiting either option, you can make the choice on your own.
While it is not usually illegal to install an air conditioning unit in your own home, there are several important factors to consider before taking on this DIY project. Local building codes, refrigerant handling, electrical work, and proper sizing and placement are all critical aspects of a successful installation.
HVAC systems manufactured in 2025 and beyond will no longer use R-410A, the most common refrigerant in current residential air conditioning units and heat pumps. This is part of a global effort to reduce the environmental impact of refrigerants that contribute to global warming and ozone depletion.
2024 brought in some new rules around how efficient these systems need to be. The key one to know about is called SEER 2. It's just a new standard that makes sure air conditioners and heat pumps are up to scratch in terms of energy efficiency. The idea is to help reduce energy consumption overall.
EnergySage estimates that a typical window unit costs roughly $320 (CAD 428) per year to run in areas with a 5-month hot season. Therefore, running a window AC will likely add around $27 (CAD 36) on average to your monthly energy bill.
Window AC units last between 5 and 15 years, and a quality one will last 10 to 15 years on average or even up to 20 with regular maintenance. Of course, it's challenging to guarantee any appliance's lifespan, but you can get a general idea by looking at customer reviews.
Compared to newer central air systems or ductless mini split options, many window AC units are not energy efficient. Some of the newer window units can be a bit more efficient than older models, but on the whole, these systems aren't very efficient. This leads to higher energy bills than you get with other AC systems.
You can build a basic wooden box to enclose your outdoor air conditioner unit if you're handy with woodworking. This not only conceals your AC equipment, but will also keep animals from nesting inside. Keep in mind that you'll occasionally need access to your condenser unit.
Your air conditioner's coils are also designed to handle extreme weather conditions. Since A/C units are made with first-rate materials and have a solid finish, it's usually not necessary to cover them when they're not in use. In fact, most manufacturers do not recommend covering your air conditioner.