Forums > Specific Focus > Home, Garden & Construction in Mexico

toocrazy

Oct 31, 2004, 7:06 AM

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Best approach in AC systems

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Buenas dias,

Woke up thinking about air conditioning needed for our new home in Sinaloa, Mexico. We are in the planning stages and during our many visits to places in Mexico it was noticed that many homes and commercial establishments use the ductless split systems and not central air. I’m wondering why for central AC units in homes can be zoned. Is it a cost factor or one of convenience in rehab work.

Trying to educate myself on the best approach given to cost of electrical rates in Mexico. I think on Rolly’s project he installed evaporation coolers but the humidity is to high in Sinaloa I believe to be effective.

Ed and Fran

Oct 31, 2004, 8:21 AM

Post #2 of 5 (4297 views)

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Re: [toocrazy] Best approach in AC systems

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Just my opinion but I'd guess that one of the reasons that central air isn't that common is that with poured concrete floors and roofs there isn't an easy way to run the ductwork (that doesn't leave it exposed). Not that you can't hide it, but people tend to go with what's more common in the area.

If I were constructing again I'd pay a lot more attention to insulation, better windows, doors that really sealed.

Regards

E&F

Esteban

Oct 31, 2004, 10:44 AM

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Re: [toocrazy] Best approach in AC systems

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I don't know for sure but here's what I'd guess:

Insulating long runs of ductwork could be difficult. Since the homes here are built of concrete, they act like a big heat sink. Bigger units that I've seen are running chiller systems. However, you have to remember that the single power system has to be big enough to provide peak demand. I have been working on a home with a 17 ton chiller unit and even though its a zone system, it costs a fortune to run the unit to cool down one room. With the cost of electricity in Sinaloa, I still think passive cooling design, innovative insulation design and a few "in the wall" inexpensive A/C units may be the best. Others will disagree and go with one, two or even three mini-splits. Then there is the question of maintenance. With the easily removed A/C wall units, you have access to MANY A/C mechanics who work for a reasonable cost. Most of the time, in the summer, you won't have guests. If you live where you can take advantage of natural air flow and you have high ceilings with fans, it's not that bad.

Rolly / Moderator

Oct 31, 2004, 1:52 PM

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Re: [Esteban] Best approach in AC systems

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I agree with Esteban. If you cannot use an evaporative cooler, single room refrigeration units are the most cost effect way.

If operating cost is not a problem, then a central unit for new construction is good. It would be iffy for a retrofit job as Esteban pointed out.

Rolly Pirate

E-visit me http://Rollybrook.com
On Facebook as Rolly Brook

toocrazy

Nov 3, 2004, 11:17 AM

Post #5 of 5 (4241 views)

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Re: [Esteban] Best approach in AC systems

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Good information and advice guys. Esteban, your comment about natural airflows got me thinking about the use of air towers with water ponds. Historically before AC we designed homes to take advantage of these elements. Time to hit Google for the middle east still designs homes with cool towers.