Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making 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 purchasing.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, so they’re not the best choice for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, so it’s important to look for models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because windows can be removed easily and allow easy access to your house.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around one or both 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 attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs that it needs to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets plenty of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC to provide a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay off over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions like a space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will run out of an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units will also have an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should come with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save money and electricity when compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select the dual-hose model over one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them a great cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut into the walls and floors to install 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 in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for many spaces including garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity costs. They are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home cool all year. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.
