Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. A lot of condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork, an central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks, which should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they are easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails. The sleeve then gets attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine what size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A larger unit is more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like a space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the room it will be used in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
They are mostly in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Utilizing portable ACs in a room or two can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units also have a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and energy when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up 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 a great option for condos because they can be put in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them a great cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other options, which means it is possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
In addition the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to push air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, which saves on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. With an air filtration system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This can assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you’re looking to know more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.