Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home does not have ductwork, a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks and must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not a great choice for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. You can install most window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move between rails. The sleeve then gets attached to the frame using brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room. Take into consideration whether the room is in a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on the central system and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth it in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models which means you can cool your space without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
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. As a result, it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condo. This will help you avoid allergies and asthma and maintain the comfort of your home throughout the all year. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.
