Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems built in. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, a central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, making them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume a lot of energy, so it’s important to look for models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they are easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply put the chassis in the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails. The sleeve then gets attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. To ensure a longer-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utility bills 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 as an electric space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the room it will be used in. Oversized units will not cool well and can be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is the central AC unit. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system, and save money and energy.
The most effective 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 have washable filters for optimum performance, and remote controls to make operation easier. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of one-hose options. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it could be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be placed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t wish to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cool by the unit in the indoor by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other options, which means it is possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too to provide year-round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not have to force air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.