Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not come with air cooling units. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork then an central AC system could be ideal. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable method of cooling a home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. You can install most window units yourself with the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models that have more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size of unit you require you simply need to multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay for itself 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 as an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. The use of a portable AC in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cooled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives which means you can cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too to provide all year round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to various occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to force air across long distances. It can also reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, which saves on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature all season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.