Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer stunning views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork and ductwork, an central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages that must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs can only cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume a lot of energy, making it crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since the windows are easily removed and provide easy access to your house.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the excess space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you need to purchase, simply multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the room it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
They are mostly in apartment buildings or homes that do not have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can lessen the burden on the central system and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos because they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all year round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.