Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems installed. Many of the condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your home has ductwork, an central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, which makes them not a good option for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are easily removed permitting easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of 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 a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives plenty of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay off over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much as the space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are utilized typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and a remote control for easy operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that runs like electrical wires 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 simply are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cooled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space at a comfortable temperature all season. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.
