Just how heavy is an air conditioner? It’s good that you asked this question. As you might have known already, air conditioners come in various sizes and shapes.
Knowing about their weight would also mean that you should learn about the things that contribute to their weight. This is among the things that one must consider when buying a unit along with the unit’s capability.
For this reason, that one will know what to expect after they made their purchase. So do not worry because we will be giving you the pieces of information you need regarding the weight of air condition systems.
How Heavy Is Your Air Conditioner – Depending On Its Type
Most of the AC weight is composed of copper that makes up the condenser and evaporator coil. Furthermore, its compressor also makes it heavy since it is mostly made of steel.
In this section, you will know the weights of the most common types of air conditioning systems. So, how heavy is an air conditioner?
#1. Window AC system
Throughout the years, the window air conditioner has gotten more high-tech and efficient. However, one feature that has not changed that much is its weight. That is because the majority of its heavy components are the essential ones.
In other words, if you want an efficient and functional unit, then you cannot go around its weight. Also, take note that the weight is not similar across all window AC systems.
Of course, the bigger the unit, the heavier its weight will be. It is unlikely for you to find a unit that weighs below 40 pounds. The high-end units can even weigh up to 120 pounds.
Remember that in choosing a unit, you should be considering the size of your house. But regardless of its weight, the window frame must support the unit sufficiently. So you would need a hand to lift it in place.
Also, keep in mind that one side is typically heavier than the other end, so when it begins tipping, it would be hard to stop the unit from falling just by yourself.
#2. Portable AC system
Generally, portable AC units are heavier as compared to window air conditioners. There are two reasons behind this. For one thing, the cooling capacity of this type of air conditioner is generally higher.
Another reason behind this is that portable air conditioners have some components that window AC units don’t include small legs, wheels, as well as the tube being attached to the window.
The standard portable units ranging from 12,000 up to 14,000 BTU usually weigh in between 70 and 80 lbs. But units with higher BTUs can go beyond 400 pounds.
Since portable AC units are designed on wheels, you can move them easily regarding their weight. It is particularly designed that way to offer portability. Plus, you no longer need to lift it onto your window.
Why Are Air Conditioners Heavy?
Copper is primarily the reason why this appliance is so heavy. Both window and centralized air conditioning units are composed of three crucial parts: the compressor, evaporator, and condenser.
Its evaporator is the one that helps in cooling the air; the condenser is responsible for preparing the refrigerant during the cooling process, while the compressor is tasked to move the refrigerant in between those two components.
As mentioned earlier both the condenser and the evaporator is made of copper. The compressor also contains some copper and this substance is very heavy. It weighs about 558 pounds for every cubic foot.
The copper component accounts for up to 60% of the smaller air conditioning units. But that particular percentage declines as the unit becomes heavier. The rest of the unit’s weight is accounted for by the steel material providing structural support to the unit. This is also the one that covers and houses the compressor.
Copper can also be substituted by aluminum. This weighs approximately 169 pounds for every cubic foot, which is lighter than copper. But still, most manufacturers would use copper since this material is a better heat conductor. That property is essential since the air conditioner functions to remove the heat in the air. More so, the cost of the unit will also increase if aluminum will be used since they will have to invest in employee training and new equipment.
Furthermore, a lot of aluminum is needed to make sure that the unit is thick enough. Otherwise, it won’t be able to withstand high pressure when the refrigerant moves through them. In short, the unit will still not weigh lighter.
Besides, mechanical engineers do not desire to make lighter units since they are more focused on designing an air conditioner system that is more ecological.
It’s A Wrap!
Going back to the main question: how heavy is an air conditioner? Well, it will depend on its type and size. Of course, the weight would vary across various models.
But on average, the weight of an air conditioner would commonly range between 60 and 180 pounds. This increases in proportion with the unit’s power or its BTU.