Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is duct-worked and ductwork, central AC system is a good idea. However, if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block out the excess space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. Take into consideration whether the room is a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay off over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than 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 a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not cool well and can wear out faster than necessary.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. Using portable ACs in a room or two can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The best portable units will also have the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. This feature may cost more but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be installed where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives which means you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort in older houses, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
In addition, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to force air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your power bills significantly. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can evaluate your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
