Question:
We are not going to be in our building for more than another year, but need
to enclose our computer servers to deaden noise and add some cooling to the
new server room. Have been told that we can't tap into current unit and
can't add a permanent unit since we're leaving soon.
Saw an article in the Wall Street Journal about portable air conditioners
and Delonghi seems to have started the concept in 1984. I like the fact that
there is no manual empty of water collection on these units and they appear
to be up to the task of running in server rooms, as that's one of the
applications the company says the units are well suited for. Anybody know
anything about them or have any experience with the units? We're looking at
PAC-210 or 290 with 7500-8500 BTU for a room that will probably be no larger
than 5' or 6' x 8' or 10'. Owner of the building says we can put a 3.5 in
hole in the wall to vent and plug it when we leave so it looks to be a
workable short term solution.
Answer:
If you go with a split system you might consider getting acknowledgement in
writing from the landlord that you do indeed have the right to remove the
air conditioner when you leave. Equipment that has piping going through
perimeter walls can be considered improvements to the building and can
magically become legally the property of the building owner even though you
paid for it. (depending on local bylaws of course) You should also find out
about RH requirements for your equipment as another poster suggested. It is
possible to install a humidification system on a normal small split system
but not on a ductless mini-split system. A normal split system would be a
lot less expensive than a ductless mini-split. You don't need to add
ductwork to the air handler, a SA plenum and a properly sized register would
do. A RA filter rack for a high efficiency filter could be added to the set
up and you would have a small version of a computer room air conditioner
with 3 of the main functions covered. (cooling, filtration, humidification)
