Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air cooling units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks, which must be considered prior purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, making them not a great option for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s important to look for models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk, as windows are easily removed and allow easy access to your house.
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 off any extra space around both sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine what size unit you need to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives plenty of sun or is on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will run out of an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be designed according to the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and get worn out faster than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The principal cooling method is a central AC unit. The use of portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as remote controls to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go the portable route, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. This feature could cost more but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives 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 make a great option for condos since they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the year. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We will assess your requirements and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.