Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not come with air conditioning units. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views but also a lot of sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, central AC system might be a good option. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume a lot of energy, which is why it’s important to look for models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since the windows can be removed easily and allow an easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you will need, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. Take into consideration whether the room is an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay off over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured 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 keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are used typically in apartment buildings or homes that do not have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Using portable AC units in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it could be worth the cost 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 are comprised 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 a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be put in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not want to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives, so you can cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces including garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort for older houses, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity costs. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to your personal preferences in 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 helps you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space at a comfortable temperature all season. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.