Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, a central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your 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 inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without having to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, which makes them not a great choice for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. You can install most window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you will require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Consider whether the room is located 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. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions as an electric space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is central AC unit. Utilizing portable AC units in a room or two could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to go portable, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out through the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more, but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many spaces including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
In addition the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems because it does not need to force air across long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be customized to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space cool all season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can evaluate your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.