Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air cooling units. Many apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive method of cooling a home without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those with a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, so they’re not the best option for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s important to look for models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as the windows can be removed easily and provide easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block off any extra space around one or both sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you require, simply multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is a high-rise building or gets a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money in energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost could 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
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). 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 utilized in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos, because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t want to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your space without disturbing others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy year-round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to force air across long distances. It can also lower your electricity costs. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space comfortable all year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us today! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.