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 equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for those on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they can be easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block any space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve on 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 attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the right size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives plenty of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, 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 stand-alone cooling system that functions much as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results a unit should be sized to fit in the space it is intended for, as oversized units won’t provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units will include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on moisture, which is another frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure performance and remote controls for simple operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth it in terms of savings and the comfort.
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 an excellent option for condos since they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In the case of 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 in comparison to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not need to force air over long distances. This means that it can lower your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home cool all season. If you are ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist. We can evaluate your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.