Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air cooling units. Many condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive way to cool a condo without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for people on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re a security risk because the windows can be removed easily 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 out excess space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will need, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Consider whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC for long-term solutions. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower monthly utility bills 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 like the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are portable and are measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
They are mostly in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more, but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it is possible to cool your space without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort in older houses, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assess your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.