Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning installed. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, making them not the best option for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since windows are easily removed and provide easy access to your house.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you will require, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. Be aware of whether the room is in a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. 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 rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be designed according to the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units will not keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
They are typically utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. Utilizing a portable AC in a room or two could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units will also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, and remote controls to make the operation simpler. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t want to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to various types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too with a highly efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This will assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the year. If you’re ready to know more about installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.