Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, making it essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows can be easily removed and provide easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block the extra 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 affixing the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room. Take into consideration whether the room is an area with high-rises or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like a space heater. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, a unit should be sized to suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
These units are utilized typically in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Using a portable AC in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to reduce humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to maintain performance and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save money and electricity when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature could cost more, but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not want to cut through walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models, so you can cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy all year round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort for older houses, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be adapted to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can assess your needs and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.
