Summer in the city can be a real challenge, especially when temperatures rise inexorably, turning even state-of-the-art homes into heat traps. With climate change becoming more pronounced every year, creating a comfortable microclimate in the home becomes a priority not only for families with young children, but also for seniors and people with health problems. A modern cooling device is a solution that brings relief on hot days, but… how to install an air conditioner in a loggia, so that it does not become a troublesome element, interfering with the aesthetics of the entire building? This is what this article will be about.
Installing an air-conditioning unit in a loggia – installation formalities
The decision to install an air conditioner seems simple – you dream of a moment’s respite from the summer heat, and the only step that separates you from feeling comfortable is choosing the right model. However, before you proceed, it’s worth pausing for a moment to consider the formalities that may be involved.
Contrary to what you may think, the installation of an air conditioner is not only a technical issue, but also a legal one. In the case of split air conditioners , the installation of an outdoor unit on the wall of a building usually requires the consent of the property manager – it is worth verifying this in the bylaws. The façade is common property and its appearance is subject to strict regulations. That is why, before you start drilling holes and installing the unit, consult your intentions with the building administrator, housing association or community.
Fortunately, the situation is a little different when we are talking about an air conditioner and building within a loggia. This type of balcony is usually considered part of your private space, which means that in most cases you don’t need special permission to install the equipment. However, to avoid unnecessary conflicts or unpleasant surprises, it is nevertheless a good idea to consult your building manager. A short consultation can save you from legal problems as well as the wrath of your neighbours.
How do I reduce the noise from the air conditioner in the loggia?
Even if you know how to hide the air conditioner in your loggia in a clever way, this still doesn’t solve the problem of noise. Fortunately, there are ways in which you can enjoy silence and coolness at the same time.
The first step is to choose the right unit. Today’s air conditioners are becoming more and more technologically advanced and manufacturers are trying to reduce the noise level as much as possible. For example, a KAISAI wall-mounted air conditioner with the heating function generates a sound level of just 57 dB (outdoor unit). This value is comparable to a quiet conversation. Always pay attention to this parameter – the lower the value, the better.
Before you get into the nitty-gritty of how to install an air conditioner in a loggia, there is the question of its correct positioning. It is a good idea for the unit to stand on a stable, flat surface – such a step keeps vibrations associated with the operation of the equipment to a minimum. Vibrations can be particularly troublesome, especially in multi-family buildings, where echoes can carry sounds over considerable distances. To prevent this, it is worth investing in damping materials – special insulation mats or acoustic panels. What else is worth knowing? It is best to avoid installing equipment directly next to walls or railings. If possible, try to position the air conditioner where it is least exposed to hard surfaces that reflect sound. Sometimes a small change in location can make a big difference to the acoustic comfort and enjoyment of everyone around.
Air conditioner – installation in a few steps
Although we primarily associate hiding a cooling unit in a loggia with aesthetic issues, there is more at stake here, namely the functionality and efficiency of the equipment itself. Even a small mistake can lead to a reduction in cooling efficiency. How do I install an air conditioner so that it works efficiently and at the same time blends harmoniously into the loggia space?
The basic principle is to ensure free air circulation around the equipment. Both KAISAI wall-mounted air conditioners and proposals from other manufacturers need space to cool effectively – blocking the airflow can lead to overheating of the unit. To prevent this, plan the installation to leave adequate gaps between the air conditioner and the components of the structure. Remember that the unit needs to ‘breathe’ to perform its function effectively.
Many people ask how to hide an air conditioner in a loggia. However, let’s leave aesthetics aside for a moment and focus on another important aspect, namely protecting the equipment from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sun causes the outdoor unit to heat up more quickly. To remedy this, it is advisable to plan the installation in such a way that the unit is shaded for most of the day – in the case of a loggia, this should not be much of a problem.
Designer solutions or how to install an air conditioner in a loggia
The air conditioner, although invaluable on hot days, does not always fit in with the vision of an aesthetically pleasing and coherent loggia arrangement. For those who value both comfort and design, there are a number of creative ways to conceal the unit discreetly, without sacrificing its functionality.
The first of these is the DIY approach. This is a great option for people who want to create something unique and tailored to their taste. Building an air conditioner doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You can use wood, metal or composites to create a cover that not only hides the equipment, but also becomes an integral part of the loggia’s décor. Remember to make sure there are adequate gaps to ensure proper air circulation – this is crucial to the efficient operation of the unit regardless of the model you choose.
However, if DIY is not your thing, you can find a ready-made housing for your air conditioner on the market. The designer, often openwork enclosures available from DIY shops are for those who want to quickly and easily improve the look of their loggia. Such covers are designed with different styles in mind – from modern, minimalist forms to more classic or even rustic designs. This makes it easy to match the overall design.
What’s more, the air conditioner casing doesn’t just have to have a masking function. For example, the upper part of the cover can be used as an additional shelf for plants, decorations or even a small table, ideal for your morning coffee. You will make maximum use of the available space.
Regardless of how you hide the air conditioner, the enclosure must be well thought out and adapted to the technical conditions of the unit. A properly designed cover will not only improve the aesthetics of the loggia, but will also contribute to better equipment performance.
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