Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork, an central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for people on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, so they’re not the best option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume lots of energy, making it essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block any space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will pay for itself over the years by reducing monthly costs and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct can be run through the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined 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 be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units also have the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored 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 allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all season. If you are ready to know more about installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.