Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air cooling units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork, an central AC system is a good idea. However, if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and cost-effective way to cool a condo without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks, which should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, which makes them not a great option for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll require, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through an opening 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 based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units will not keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on your central system, saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to maintain efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go portable, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not wish to cut into the floors and walls 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 compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This can assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.
