Air Conditioners For Condos

A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views but also too much sunlight and heat.

If your home is equipped with ductwork then central AC is a good option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.

1. Window Units

Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive 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 a great option for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages that should be considered prior to purchase.

Window ACs can only cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.

Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around the sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that can be used 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 with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails. The sleeve then gets fixed to the frame by brackets that attach it to the window.

To determine the size unit you will need, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives lots of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.

2. Portable Units

Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be determined 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 wear down faster than necessary.

These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through a central AC unit. By using an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you can lessen the load on the central system and save money and energy.

The best portable units will include an option to dehumidify to lessen the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.

If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out through the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature may cost more but the benefits and comfort be 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 which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t want to cut into walls and floors for ductwork.

In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well to provide year-round peace and comfort.

The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces like garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.

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 lower your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.

Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With an air filtration system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your condominium. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all season. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.

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