Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way 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 an ideal choice for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s important to look for models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether your room gets a lot of sun or is on the upper floors. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC for a long-term solution. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off over time, 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. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
These units are used mostly in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Utilizing portable AC units in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The best portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should come 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 and save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to go portable, it is essential to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then expelled through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be placed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home cool throughout the season. If you’re looking to know more about installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the most appropriate air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.