Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems built in. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork then central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home does not have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive way to cool a condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units by yourself using the window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models that have more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require you simply need to multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs that it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is located in a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
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 mini-duct or tube will be able to exit an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (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 room it will be used in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through central AC unit. Using portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on your central system, saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation easier. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go portable, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature could cost more however the savings and comfort could be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity 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 can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space at a comfortable temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.