Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. A lot of condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, central AC system could be ideal. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which must be considered prior purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume lots of energy, making it important to look for models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re a security risk because windows can be easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives a lot of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions as a space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (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. For the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The principal cooling method is the central AC unit. Using portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on your central system, saving electricity and money.
The best portable units also have an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut through floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cool by the unit in the indoor by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With an air filtration system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This will aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the year. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We will assess your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
