Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your home has ductwork, then central AC is a good option. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks, which must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, making it essential to select 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 provide an easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models with more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. Take into consideration whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are determined 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 get worn out faster than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can reduce the burden on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, and remote controls to make operation easier. 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 go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound of the unit. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives, so you can cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have all year round luxury.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to various occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. This means that it can lower your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.