Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and cost-effective method of cooling a home without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re a security risk, as the windows can be easily removed and give 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 wooden to block out excess space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you need you simply need to multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is an area with high-rises or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying central AC for a long-term solution. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The principal cooling method is a central AC unit. Utilizing a portable AC in a room or two can help reduce the load on your central system, saving electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units will also have the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy when compared to non-certified units.
If you opt to go portable, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models which means you can cool your space without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.