Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning installed. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. However, if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, so they’re not a good choice for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching 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 right size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives plenty of sun or is on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in 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 service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out 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 usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be constructed to fit in the space it is intended for because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through central AC unit. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units also come with the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also come with washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and a remote control for easy operation. 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 for a portable model, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
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, and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be installed where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In 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 systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too to provide all year round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to various types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not have to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity costs. They are smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all season. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.