Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then a central AC is a good option. However, if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume a lot of energy, making it crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is located in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on your central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using 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 benefits and comfort make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be installed where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your power bills significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance, and they can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space comfortable all year. If you’re ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.
