Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. A lot of apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those with a tight budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, which makes them not the best choice for larger homes. 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 can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have 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 hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room gets plenty of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay off over time, with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent 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 a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed in accordance with the space it will be used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t 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 load on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and remote controls for simple operation. Choose energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In 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 options, which means it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces like garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your apartment. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space comfortable all year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We will assess your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.