Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning built in. They do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, so they’re not a great option for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, making it crucial to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units by yourself using the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the right size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is located in an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions like the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). 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 because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may get worn out faster than needed.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems, where the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. Utilizing a portable AC in a room or two can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go portable, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be installed where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models and allows you to cool your room without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating, so you can have all year round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home comfortable all season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can assess your needs and help choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
