Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, which makes them not the best option for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows can be removed easily and give easy access to your house.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine what size of unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives a lot of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and are measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the room it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are used mostly in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go portable, it is essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
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 by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not want to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it moves through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be much more energy efficient than conventional systems because it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your apartment. This will aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We will assess your needs and help choose the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.