Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. Many of the condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, a central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, so they’re not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block off any extra space around the 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 then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine what size unit you require you simply need to multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets lots of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is 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 electricity and also money.
The best portable units will also come with the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also include washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the noise of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist 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 since they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t want to cut into walls and floors for 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 compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well to provide year-round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces including garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This will assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you are ready to know more about installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.