Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments don’t come with built-in air cooling units. Many of the condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then a central AC is a good option. If not however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for people on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which must be considered prior purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, so they’re not a good option for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, making it important to look for models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk because windows can be easily removed and provide easy access to your house.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide between rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine what size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much like an electric space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct can be run through an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be constructed to fit in the space it is intended for because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
These units are utilized most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable ACs in a room or two can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The best portable units will include an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go for a portable model, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra expense.
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 choice for condos, because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort in older houses or apartments as well as condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. With an air filtration system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can evaluate your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.
