Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork then an central AC system could be ideal. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for people on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, making them 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 because windows are easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block any space around one or both sides of the window. You can install most window units by yourself using a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move between rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you need, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more costly, but can 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 higher, it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the space it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may get worn out faster than.
These units are used most often in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to reduce the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the noise of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it could be well worth the investment in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos, because they can be placed in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year round comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it does not have to force air across long distances. In turn, it can reduce your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the all year. If you’re ready to know more about installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.