Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and affordable method of cooling a home without installing ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. There are some disadvantages that must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume plenty of energy, making it essential to select models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as windows are easily removed and give easy access to your house.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block any space around the sides of the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room. Be aware of whether the room is a high-rise building or gets a lot more sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. To ensure a longer-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. The initial cost might 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
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be designed according to the room it will be used in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
They are typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main 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 save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to reduce the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This significantly increases 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 with this feature, but it could be worth it in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it moves through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort for older houses, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
In addition, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not have to force air across long distances. This means that it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condo. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature all season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We will assess your needs and help choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.