Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning built in. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, central AC system is a good idea. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable way to cool a condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which should be considered prior to 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. Additionally, they’re an security risk since the windows are easily removed and allow an easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. Consider whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will run out of a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can get worn out faster than needed.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through a central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system and save money and energy.
The best portable units will also have the option of dehumidifying to cut down on moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also have washable filters to ensure performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. This feature could cost more but the benefits and comfort be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos since they can be placed in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t want to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models and allows you to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
In addition that, a ductless system could be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it does not have to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condo. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies, while keeping your space cool all season. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We will assess your requirements and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.