Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home does not have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they can be easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is located in a high-rise building or gets a lot more sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. If you want to have a long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much as the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct can be run through a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
They are most often in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable AC units in a room or two could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include an option to dehumidify to lessen humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more, but the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be placed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not want to cut through floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your home without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. They are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance, and they can be customized to your own temperature preferences. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies, while keeping your space comfortable all season. If you’re looking to know more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can assess your needs and help choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
