Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Many condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, which makes them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they are easily removed giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. You can install most window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you will need, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room. Take into consideration whether the room is a high-rise building or gets a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest 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 as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions like the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct can be run through an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. Utilizing portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the noise of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating which means you can enjoy all year round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas like garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your home, call us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.