Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then a central AC is a good option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s important to look for models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as the windows can be removed easily and give easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is located in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined 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 wear out faster than necessary.
These units are used typically in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system, and save money and electricity.
The best portable units will also have the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is chilled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for many spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condo. This will assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your unique situation.