Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork then an central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC for long-term solutions. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay for itself over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions as an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include an option to dehumidify to lessen the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go portable, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your home without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it can easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
In addition the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems because it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. With an air filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This can aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain the comfort of your home throughout the season. If you’re ready to know more about installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist you. We can assess your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
