Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning built in. Many apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your home has ductwork then a central AC system might be a good option. However, if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for people on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks and should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, making it essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed, permitting 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 install accordions or wood to block out excess space around one or both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide across rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room effectively. Consider whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct can be run through a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results a unit should be sized to suit the intended space as larger units will not offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. The use of a portable AC in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models, so you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well to provide all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because 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 need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can lower your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space cool throughout the year. If you’re looking to learn more about installing a ductless system in your home, call us today! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can evaluate your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your specific situation.