Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air cooling units. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork then central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home 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 those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since the windows are easily removed and give easy access to your house.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around one or both sides of the window. You can install most window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with more 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 require, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room. Take into consideration whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay off in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much like a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the room it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are utilized mostly in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable AC units in a room or two can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also include washable filters to ensure efficiency and remote controls for simple operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy compared to non-certified units.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This option may cost more however the savings and comfort could be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of 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 an excellent option for condos as they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating, so you can have all-year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power bills significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your apartment. This will assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the season. If you’re ready to know more about installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We will assess your needs and help choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
