Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork and ductwork, a central AC system might be a good option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need for 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 for older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, which makes them not the best choice for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because the windows are easily removed and provide easy access to your house.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you will need by multiplying the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying a central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the burden on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a typical 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 remote controls to make the operation simpler. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go the portable route, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature could cost more, but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it passes through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year round comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas including garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you’re looking to know more about installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.