Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which provide great views, but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building does not have any ductwork, then a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive method of cooling a home without installing ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since the windows are easily removed and give an easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay for itself over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions as an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will run out of a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the space it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on moisture, which is another frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, and a remote controller to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of one-hose options. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more, but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos because they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of 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 the air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models and allows you to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your home, call us today! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.