Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, a central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment 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 on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, so they’re not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume a lot of energy, so it’s important to look for models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around one or both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is located in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, a unit should be sized to suit the intended space because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in a room or two could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Select energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known 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 option for condos as they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not want to cut through floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy year-round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces like garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance, and they can be customized to your own temperature preferences. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space cool all year. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your home, call us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.