Adding AC to row house — options

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:If you go for a traditional HVAC, think about where you're going to place the compressor. It would be easier to access on the patio, but noisy and not very pretty, especially if your lot is on the smaller side. My compressor is on the roof, which while quiet and out of sight, becomes a colossal PITA when anything needs to be done. I don't have roof access from the inside of my rowhouse, so even something as simple as clearing away snow requires a dangerous climb several floors up an exterior ladder. Replacing it will require a crane, which will add thousands to the cost.

If I could choose from scratch, I would keep radiator heat and and add split packs. The mini compressors have a smaller footprint and can be attached to the exterior wall itself.

I'm not familiar with the terms split packs and mini compressor. Is there a general name for this system that I can research more?

^^we have a tiny front yard and no back yard - just barely more than enough space for a cement car pad and trash cans. The plus side, an unsightly compressor would not detract from the look of the area.

[Anonymous]

We are doing a full gut on an 1800 sq ft row home (above ground) and can’t decide between central air and mini-splits. If you want to use your radiators, I’d got with mini or high velocity. We feel compelled to go with central air because it’s easy to add them at this level in our renovation but I prefer the efficiency of the mini splits. We got quotes for central air 19-22k and mini splits 18-20k. After reading these comments Im going to look into high velocity AC and keeping our radiators.

[Anonymous]

What are mini splits? And what units are required?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:What are mini splits? And what units are required?

These are the ductless units that mount on the wall in each room?