Heating/Cooling expert question

paleshadow · #1 10-07-2011, 12:51 AM

If there are any heating/cooling or electrical experts out there maybe you can answer this question?

Is it possible for a central air unit to be shared on multiple electrical units in a condo or apartment situation? Each condo has it's own HVAC system, but there is only one central air unit for the building. Just wondering how the electric to the AC unit would be set up.

HomerMcvie · #2 10-07-2011, 02:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paleshadow

If there are any heating/cooling or electrical experts out there maybe you can answer this question?

Is it possible for a central air unit to be shared on multiple electrical units in a condo or apartment situation? Each condo has it's own HVAC system, but there is only one central air unit for the building. Just wondering how the electric to the AC unit would be set up.

I have a little bit of knowledge in this area(not claiming to be an expert). I don't think it's possible for it to be drawing AC from multiple sources. So either one apartment is taking the hit for the electricity, or it's on it's own service, that the building pays. I know landlords, so I would guess the former.

paleshadow · #3 10-07-2011, 05:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HomerMcvie

I have a little bit of knowledge in this area(not claiming to be an expert). I don't think it's possible for it to be drawing AC from multiple sources. So either one apartment is taking the hit for the electricity, or it's on it's own service, that the building pays. I know landlords, so I would guess the former.

That's what I was thinking also. Now I just have to find out which meter the AC unit is connected to. Do you think my electricity provider can tell me that, or do I need to have an electrician check? Thanks for your help!

KarmaContestant · #4 10-07-2011, 09:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paleshadow

That's what I was thinking also. Now I just have to find out which meter the AC unit is connected to. Do you think my electricity provider can tell me that, or do I need to have an electrician check? Thanks for your help!

Ooh I love investigation work like this. Do let us know how this turns out!

Mac Attack · #5 10-07-2011, 10:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HomerMcvie

I have a little bit of knowledge in this area(not claiming to be an expert). I don't think it's possible for it to be drawing AC from multiple sources. So either one apartment is taking the hit for the electricity, or it's on it's own service, that the building pays. I know landlords, so I would guess the former.

You're right, the refridgeration unit would have a dedicated circuit. The question is where is it supplied from.

HomerMcvie · #6 10-07-2011, 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paleshadow

That's what I was thinking also. Now I just have to find out which meter the AC unit is connected to. Do you think my electricity provider can tell me that, or do I need to have an electrician check? Thanks for your help!

Well, the easiest way would be to access the breaker box, and flip off breakers....if the air goes off, you've found the source.

I have rentals(duplexes), and the buildings all have a sump pump under them. I've had tight assed tenants who have thrown a fit, when/if they discover that the sump pump is running off of their power. "Hey, it HAS to run off of one side of the building!"

But yeah, for one person to be footing the bill for everyone else's A/C, I would think a nice rent reduction would be in order, for the person footing the bill.