Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning built in. Many of the condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your home has ductwork then central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. You can install most window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC for long-term solutions. 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 as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. A unit should be designed in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. Using portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure performance and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s important to select a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. This feature could cost more however the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not wish to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it is possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, as well to provide all year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your power bills significantly. They are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condo. This will help you avoid asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring your condo’s temperature throughout the year. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.
