Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable way to cool a condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, which makes them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume lots of energy, making it important to look for models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since windows can be removed easily and give easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size unit you require you simply need to multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused 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 determined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units won’t cool well and can be worn out more quickly than.
These units are utilized most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of a portable AC in a room or two can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The most effective portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. This option may cost more, but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos, because they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too to provide all year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma and keeps your home cool all season. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.