Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, an central AC system might be a good option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, so they’re not a good option for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since the windows are easily removed and provide easy access to your house.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move between rails. The sleeve then gets fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
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 comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is in a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over time 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 as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to 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 can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
These units are utilized typically in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make the operation simpler. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go the portable route it is important to select the dual-hose model over one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. This option may cost more, but the benefits and comfort be worth the extra money.
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 which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort for older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space comfortable all year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.