Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork, an central AC system might be a good option. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your home without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room, so they are not suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s 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 can be easily removed and allow easy access to your house.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block any space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. If you want to have a long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC system. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
They are most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of a portable AC in a room or two could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The best portable units also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also have washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it could be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cool by the unit in the indoor by passing through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too to provide all year-round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to different occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it does not have to force air over long distances. This means that it can lower your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be customized to your personal preferences in temperature. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condo. This will aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you’re looking to learn more about installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.