Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Many apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork then central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and must be considered prior purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, which makes them not the best 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 security risk, since they are easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around one or both 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 sleeve. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. Consider whether the room is located in an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC to provide a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay for itself over time 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 standalone cooling system that functions as an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and are measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be constructed to fit in the space it is intended for as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are used most often in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you opt to go portable, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. This option may cost more, but the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up 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 fantastic choice for condos, because they can be placed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t want to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is chilled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.