Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems built in. A lot of apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your building has ductwork, an central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not the best option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume a lot of energy, making it important to look for models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as windows can be removed easily and provide an easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models with more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll require, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room. Be aware of whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger unit is more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC system. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like a space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The principal cooling method is the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on your central system, and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the noise of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In 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 than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your room without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not have to force air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power consumption significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space cool throughout the year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.