Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air cooling units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not the best choice for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because the windows can be removed easily and give an easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. You can install most window units by yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets lots of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will pay off over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions as the space heater. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the room it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not cool well and can get worn out faster than.
They are most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the burden on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to reduce 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 maintain efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more but the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically 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 passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity costs. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.