Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not come with air cooling units. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork and ductwork, a central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around both sides of the window. You can install most window units by yourself using the window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Consider whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions like the space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you opt to go portable, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature may cost more however the benefits and comfort be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be installed where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various types of occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems because it does not have to force air across long distances. In turn, it can lower your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space cool throughout the season. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.
