Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems installed. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable way to cool a condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, which makes them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block out the excess space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move between rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will require, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. Take into consideration whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system, and save money and energy.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature could cost more however the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it does not need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring your condo’s temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We will assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.