Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air cooling units. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive way to cool a condo without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those with a tight budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around the sides of the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money in energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest 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 lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous 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. A unit should be designed in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units won’t be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. The use of portable AC units in a room or two can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to reduce humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, and a remote controller to make operation more simple. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go portable, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy year-round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for many spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance, and they can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies and keeps your home cool throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.