Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning built in. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. However, if it doesn’t then 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 an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s important to look for models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units by yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than a variety of 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 a tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems, where the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. The use of a portable AC in a single or multiple rooms can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The best portable units will also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more, but the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are comprised 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 great option for condos because they can be put in areas that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them a great cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.