Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, an central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those with a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because windows are easily removed and provide an easy access to 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 any space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units by yourself using a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move between rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you require you simply need to multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money in energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much as an electric space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). They are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the room it will be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units will also come with the option of dehumidifying to cut down on moisture, which is another frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the 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 others. Some ductless systems also offer heating which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are 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 suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This will aid in avoiding allergies and asthma while ensuring your condo’s temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assess your needs and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your unique situation.