Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems installed. A lot of apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which provide great views, but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms 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 a few drawbacks that should be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since windows are easily removed and give an easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around the sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that can be used 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 larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may get worn out faster than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system and save money and electricity.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. This option may cost more however the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for 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 great choice for condos because they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating, so you can have all-year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This will help you avoid allergies and asthma, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the all year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.