Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home has 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 AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, making them not a good option for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since windows are easily removed and allow an easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Consider whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room as larger units will not offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
They are mostly in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Using a portable AC in a room or two can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units also have an option to dehumidify to lessen humidity, which is a common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also have washable filters to maintain efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist 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 because they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t want to cut into walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well to provide all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase comfort in older houses or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems because it does not need to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity costs. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance, and they can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s comfort throughout the year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assess your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
