Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Many of the condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. There are some disadvantages that should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, making them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because windows can be easily removed and allow easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block any space around one or both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floors. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will run out of an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous 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 used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are utilized most often in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Utilizing a portable AC in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option 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 that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This option may cost more, but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your room without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have all year round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to force air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This will help you avoid asthma and allergy symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the all year. If you’re ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us now! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.