Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. Many condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, which offer great views but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, making them not the best choice for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into 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 off any extra space around one or both sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room gets plenty of sun or is on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually be able to pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as 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 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 determined by BTU ratings. For the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the principal cooling method is the central AC unit. Using a portable AC in a room or two could reduce the burden on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to ensure efficiency and remote controls for simple operation. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels 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 space without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. 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 is also ideal for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to push air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your power consumption significantly. They are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can aid in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.