Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air conditioning units. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, making it important to look for models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re a security risk because windows can be easily removed and provide 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 need to install accordions or wooden to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you require, simply multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets plenty of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay for itself over the years by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much as the space heater. They are designed to plug 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 harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
These units are used mostly in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy when compared to non-certified units.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is essential to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. This option may cost more however the savings and comfort can be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not wish 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 tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other options, which means it is possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces including garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with 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 more energy-efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation 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. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the year. If you’re ready to learn more about installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We will assess your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
