Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems installed. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, making them not a good choice for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, making it essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with the window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine what size unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions like the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are used most often in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of a portable AC in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and money.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to decrease humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when compared with 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. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since 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 travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too to provide year-round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity costs. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the all year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.