Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. Many apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is duct-worked and ductwork, central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks and should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. 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’ll require by multiplying the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives lots of sun or is on the upper floors. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
These units are most often utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. This option may cost more, but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be placed in places where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models which means you can cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for many spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. They are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This will assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain the comfort of your home throughout the year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.