Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not come with air conditioning units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home is duct-worked and ductwork, an central AC system is a good idea. However, if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
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 removing warm air from a room 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. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block any space around one or both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using 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 able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay off over time, with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like an electric space heater. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). They are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be designed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. Using portable AC units in a room or two could reduce the burden on your central system, saving energy and money.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the noise of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos, because they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models which means you can cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, as well to provide year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This will help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We will assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.