Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to ceiling windows, which offer great views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, a central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows can be easily removed and allow easy access to your house.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the excess space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives lots of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay off in the long run by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions like a space heater. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can get worn out faster than.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. By using an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced 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 the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos since they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t wish to cut through walls and floors for 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 other models, so you can cool your home without disturbing other. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well to provide year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.