Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems installed. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive option to cool a condominium without the need for 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 come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, making them not the best choice for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since the windows can be removed easily and provide easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block out the excess 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 then attach the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets lots of sun or is on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. To ensure a longer-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct can be run through 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 usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
These units are used most often in apartment buildings or homes that do not have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Utilizing portable AC units in a room or two can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth it in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be installed in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t wish to cut through the 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 conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity costs. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can save 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 more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.