Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your home without having to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable 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. In addition, they pose an security risk since windows can be easily removed and provide easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room. Take into consideration whether the room is located in an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
They are most often in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a common reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Select energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it could be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be installed in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it passes through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces like garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance, and they can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condo. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma, while keeping your space cool all year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.
