Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork, central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, making them not a good choice for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, so it’s important to look for models that have 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.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the excess space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve on the outside of the frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions as the space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
They are mostly in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Using a portable AC in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go for a portable model it is important to select the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more, but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be placed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often 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 tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on 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 provide superior cooling performance and can be adapted to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space comfortable throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.