Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, a central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building does not have ductwork, a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive method of cooling a home without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, so they’re not a good choice for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as the windows are easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives plenty of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from rooms and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be designed in accordance with the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units won’t be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
They are mostly in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Using portable AC units in a room or two can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The best portable units will also have an option to dehumidify to lessen the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also include washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select the dual-hose model over one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them a great cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too to provide all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring your condo’s temperature throughout the year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your home, call us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.