Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. Many of the condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your house is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. If not however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they have a few drawbacks that should be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, so they’re not a great option for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, making it important to look for models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because the windows can be easily removed and allow easy access to your house.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models that have more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the right size unit you need, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives plenty of sun or is on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. Using portable ACs in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters for optimum performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. This feature could cost more however the savings and comfort can be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well to provide all year round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to force air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding allergies and asthma and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the year. If you are ready to know more about installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.
