Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems installed. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your building has ductwork, central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive way to cool a condo without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have a few drawbacks that should be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, which makes them not the best option for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the excess space around the window. It is possible to install most window units by yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models that have more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you will need by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Consider whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent 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 the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the space it will be used in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may get worn out faster than.
They are most often in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The best portable units include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make the operation simpler. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and energy compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort can be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos as they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not 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 moves through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. This means that it can lower your power bills significantly. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies, while keeping your space comfortable all year. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.