Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. Many apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which provide great views, but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those with a tight budget or older homes without ductwork. There are some disadvantages that must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, which makes them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since windows are easily removed and give easy access to your house.
You may have to put in accordions, or wood, to block out the excess space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is located in a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions like a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can get worn out faster than needed.
These units are used typically in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Utilizing portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation easier. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you decide to go portable, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more however the benefits and comfort be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well which means you can enjoy all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to force air across long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assess your requirements and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your specific situation.