Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems installed. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since windows are easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the excess space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with the window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails. The sleeve then gets attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the right size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is located in a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through an opening 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). For the best results, a unit should be sized to suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
They are typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the primary 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 most reliable portable units will include a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to go for a portable model it is important to select the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your room without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not have to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma while also keeping your space at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your home, call us today! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.
