Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. Many of the apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. However, if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable method of cooling a home without installing ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for people on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages that must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, making them not the best option for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re a security risk, as windows can be removed easily and provide easy access to your house.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the excess space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move between rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. Consider whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost could be higher but 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
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions as the space heater. 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 harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the room it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation more simple. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save money and electricity when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
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, which are connected by thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply aren’t feasible. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance and can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding allergies and asthma and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We will assess your requirements and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your specific situation.