Air conditioning grilles - Help!!!

13 years ago

Please help me!
We are finishing a substantial renovation of our apartment in Manhattan. Among many other things, we are installing new AC covers/cabinets but trying to get new grilles for the AC units is driving me insane.
The AC repairman insists that I can only use the ones I have or new ones that are the same. He says that decorative grilles are not appropriate for these units; something about the ribs being slanted for good air flow.
He brought me new a one to try but the problem is that it was as bad as the old ones: flimsy aluminum that will scratch and bend out of shape in no time. Costing $350 each, I am convinced that there has to be something better, although I have not found it yet.
I am attaching pictures of the grilles and unit (from the top) and another of one of the cabinets and AC cover.

Any help you can give me will be much appreciated
SCV

Featured Answer

PRO

ARCHITECTURAL GRILLE

12 years ago

We make custom HVAC linear bar grilles in 6 different styles, depending on desired air flow & design requirements, in a variety of materials (metal & wood) & finishes...and we're located in Brooklyn, NY!

It looks as though you would need a linear bar grille with an access door/panel for unit controls, our doors can hinge left or right depending on the unit specs and easy enough for your contractor to install or you could do it yourself if you're feeling up to the challenge!

You can find the full range of linear bar grilles we offer on our website: http://www.archgrille.com/bar_grilles.php?category=Bar Grilles

Feel free to stop by our showroom/factory at 42 Second Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215 to check out our grille styles in person, we're open Monday - Friday 8am-4pm.

Below photos/images: wood grille; aluminum grille with access door/panel; mirror polish brass grilles from recent job.

Hopefully we can help you out on your project - thanks for your consideration!

Architectural Grille
http://www.houzz.com/pro/archgrille/__public

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Comments (12)

PRO
Harding Design & Construction
13 years ago
I would go with the advise of your HVAC contractor. He is right you need function over aesthetics. Grills are designed to throw air and effectively heat and cool your home. Maybe you can spray paint it to match the cabinetry.
soledadcv
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks for your comment. I am not trying to favor look over efficiency but I cannot believe that those are the only grilles in the market.
I thought about spray painting but I was told it is difficult to apply on aluminum and the results don't look too good. Any advise?
Thanks again
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gemstar64
13 years ago
Use spray paint for bbq's - we sprayed a fireplace grill (from brass to black) and it came out fine.
PRO
ReSquare Architecture + Construction
13 years ago
last modified: 13 years ago
Your AC repairman is right and wrong at the same time. You should use one designed for your unit, but you can get custom ones made to match it out of other materials.

Try: http://aagrilles.com/linearbargrilles

If the linear slats are removable from the more custom frame behind them you'll have a more cost effective approach to just custom make the slats.

They will be pricey though, so painting may be the better solution. If you paint, be sure to first use an aluminum primer (easy to find, HD has them) on the grille prepped per the primer manufacturer's recommendations (some require a light acid wash, but clean of oils is usually enough). Once primed you have more leeway on what paint to use. You can also take the unpainted grill to a powder coating shop and have them do a bang up job for a much tougher finish.
PRO
Specialty Air Inc.
12 years ago
It will be better to hire HVAC Contractor, or you can look for decorative grill that are easily available in the market in affordable rates.
bballgirl02
12 years ago
My mom had those then replaced them with wooden frames. It looks great in her home.
Noneof Yourbuzbess
12 years ago
We had gorgeous bronze Deco style grates made by Décor Grates and they are works of art for about same price as your contractor is proposing aluminum.
PRO
ARCHITECTURAL GRILLE
12 years ago
Aluminum Grille with Access Panel
soledadcv
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks everyone for your suggestions.
Yesterday, before I saw the post, I checked Architectural grilles website and asked for a quote. I hope to hear from them soon.
PRO
ARCHITECTURAL GRILLE
12 years ago
Thanks so much for reaching out soledadcv, please email your name/contact details to sjgiumenta@archgrille.com & I will ensure one of our estimators contacts you today with a quote & any specs questions. Stephen Giumenta - co-owner
jonathan_williams11
12 years ago
Its better to hire a professional HVAC service provider for any type air conditioning problems. They can better suggest you about the appropriate grilles for your air conditioning unit.
http://www.highperformanceheating.com/hvac-services/air-conditioning/