Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your building has ductwork then an central AC system is a good idea. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing 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 do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs can only cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine what size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost could be higher, but it will 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 stand-alone cooling system that functions like the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the space it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are utilized mostly in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of a portable AC in a room or two can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters to maintain efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos because they can be installed in areas that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut through walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can lower your power consumption significantly. They are smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This will aid in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.