Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your apartment without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages that must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not a great option for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because windows can be removed easily and allow an easy access to your home.
You may need 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 a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine what size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs that it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the space it will be used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the principal cooling method is the central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can reduce the burden on your central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units will also have an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This significantly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. This option may cost more however the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not wish to cut through the floors and walls 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 than traditional models, so you can cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems because it does not have to force air across long distances. This means that it can reduce your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This can help you avoid asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain the comfort of your home throughout the season. If you’re looking to know more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us now! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.