Portable AC Part 2: The “how”

Unfortunately while leaving the cooler outside to dry the paint it rained. I will complete the painting process again as of expo.

Despite this, everything else associated with the project is complete.

Upon first embarking on this project, I set myself to a standard and simple timeline. As I had to wait until spring break to acquire the cooler, I went ahead and planned and purchased all needed materials before spring break. Then I completed the fabrication of the project during spring break and set out to finish painting post spring break.

The first step of making my artifact involved planning and cutting out the holes in the cooler for the intake and the outlet vents as well as drilling holes in order to fasten the fan in place. This process was simple with basic measurements and cutting utilizing a Sawzall.

The next step in making my artifact was to secure the components successfully before applying insulation seal.

With all components fastened and secured, I continued to use caulk to preserve insulation in any gaps created.

The next process involved painting, and is something that will be redone currently. The ultimate project looks like the following: (painting unfinished)

Overall the fabrication process was very simple. I was very keen on the heat exchanger portable AC project and knew what I wanted from it. This significantly streamlined the fabrication process.

In comparison to what I expected from the beginning, the project very little differed from what I expected of it.

A main regret I had in this project was not taking extra steps to achieve my intended modern aesthetic. The fan is often time in my eyes a large blob protruding from the little cooler. If this could have been sized down, I would be much happier in terms of achieving the intended aesthetic. Additionally, I wished i had put some sort of wrap on the lid before I proceeded to cut. I feel like having a wood-texture wrap or something similar and sleek would have been best to reach my aesthetic and I could have just cut through that so that the wrap would have maintained a better quality look.

Upon completion of my painting and finishing expo, The project will be used for its functional use. Likely placed underneath my bed or my desk, the white sleek outline would blend in and provide a well needed cool burst of air in my AC-less house.