Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not come with air cooling units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and cost-effective way to cool a condo without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs can only cool a single room, so they are not suitable for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows can be removed easily and give easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move between rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll require, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. Be aware of whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much as an electric space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful 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. A unit must be sized according to the space it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can wear out faster than necessary.
These units are most often utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes without ducting systems, where the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms can help reduce the load on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to reduce humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth it in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too to provide all year round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort for older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be customized to your own temperature preferences. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can help you avoid asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your condominium, contact us now! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the most appropriate air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.
