Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems installed. Many condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. However, if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive method of cooling a home without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, so they’re not the best choice for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, so 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 are easily removed and allow an 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 install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around one or both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models that have more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is on the upper floors. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are mobile and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos because they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtration system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature all year. If you’re ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.