Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. They do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t then 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 a simple and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those with a tight budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, so they’re not the best option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and 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. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that can be used 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 with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide across rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing 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 lifespan than multiple window units.
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 mini-duct or tube will be able to exit an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
These units are most often utilized in apartment buildings as well as homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. The use of a portable AC in a room or two can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos, because they can be installed in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of 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 cool by the unit in the indoor by passing through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too to provide all year round luxury.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems because it does not have to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your apartment. This will assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the year. If you’re looking to learn more about installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the most appropriate air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.