Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning built in. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your condo without having to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, which makes them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models that have more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying a central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay off over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions like a space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will run out of a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The principal cooling method is central AC unit. By using an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system, and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more, but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, 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 in comparison to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This will assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s comfort throughout the year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help choose the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
