Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems built in. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork, a central AC system might be a good option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your condo without the need to install 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 for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, which makes them not the best choice for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since the windows can be easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around the sides of the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use 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 higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move between rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will need by multiplying the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. Using portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option 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 ensure the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go the portable route, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. This feature could cost more but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known 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 via thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos because they can be put in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives which means you can cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your power bills significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condo. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all year. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.