The console air conditioner is a self-contained unit that can come in 2-hp to 10-hp sizes. These units are used in small commercial buildings, restaurants, stores, and banks. They may be water-cooled or air-cooled.
Figure 5-16 shows an air-cooled console conditioner. In installations of this type, the unit should be located so that it can be vented to the outside to get rid of the hot air produced by the compressor and the condenser.
There are also water-cooled console air conditioners. They require connections to the local water supply, as well as a water drain and condensate drain (Figure 5-17). Note the location of the parts in Figure 5-16. Water is used to cool the compressor. In both models, the evaporator coil is mounted in the top of the unit (see Figure 5-18). Air blown through the evaporator is cooled and directed to the space to be conditioned. In some areas, a water-cooled model is not feasible.
Since the evaporator coil also traps moisture from the air, this condensate must be drained. This dehumidifying action accounts for large amounts of water on humid days. If outside air is brought in, the condensate will be more visible than if inside air is recirculated.
Installation and Service
The console air conditioner is produced by the factory ready for installation. It must be moved to a suitable location and hooked to electrical and plumbing supplies. Once located and connected, it must be checked for level. Electrical and plumbing work must conform to local codes.
Servicing the unit is simple because all the parts are located in one cabinet. Remove the panels to gain access to the compressor, valves, blowers, filter, evaporator, and motors. A maintenance schedule should be set up and followed. Most maintenance consists of changing filters and checking pressures. Cleaning the filters, cleaning the inside of the cabinet with a vacuum, and cleaning the evaporator fins are the normal service procedures.Water connections and electrical control devices should be checked for integrity. Clean the fan motor. Oil the bearings on the blowers and motors whenever specified by the manufacturers.
