Coincidentally, that same day, article ran in Wall Street Journal about Midea's new U-shaped window air conditioner, and I was intrigued.
Midea U, features U-shaped design that allows the window to open and close, so users can still access fresh air whenever desired.
the window bisects R-32 unit, acting making the unit nine times quieter than traditional window units, according to the company..
According to WSJ article, the initial demand for Midea U in 2020 was five times what Midea predicted, and the company projects sales to crack million units by the end of 2023..
R-32 unit is shaped like saddle, with the connection piece resting on the windowsill and the compressor located outside.
Then there's Gradient, which is window heat pump that is also shaped like saddle and designed to be installed below the windowsill.
Given the continuing chain issues, it might be idea to offer homeowners window units to cool their homes while waiting for necessary parts.
In this situation, end users could rent or buy the outright from their contractors, or contractors may invest in loaner units that they could free of charge similar to the free rental cars offered by some auto dealerships.
The bonus is, we can turn down the thermostats for the rest of the house at night while we slumber away in our Midea-cooled igloo...
There is also the issue that new HVAC equipment is very expensive right now, HVAC space needs disruption.
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