Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, a central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, so they’re not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since the windows can be easily removed and give an 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 put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around one or both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the right size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is in a high-rise building or gets a lot more sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the room it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may get worn out faster than.
These units are most often utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes without ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The best portable units will also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils then blow it out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more, but the benefits and comfort be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. This makes them a great cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating, so you can have all-year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many spaces including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity costs. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be customized to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies, while keeping your space cool all season. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.
