Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. A lot of condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home has ductwork and ductwork, an central AC system is a good idea. If not however, 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 affordable and simple way to cool your 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 with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with a few drawbacks that should be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space and are therefore not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume a lot of energy, so it’s important to look for models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will need, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets plenty of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A larger unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse 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 determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the room it will be used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year-round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. As a result, it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This will help you avoid allergies and asthma and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the all year. If you’re looking to learn more about installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.