Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork then central AC system might be a good option. If not then 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 option to cool a condominium without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs can only cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s essential to select models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows can be easily removed and give an easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move across rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room effectively. Consider whether the room is a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will run out of an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). They are mobile and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the room it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes without ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. By using an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can reduce the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units will include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well to provide all year round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, which saves on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personal 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 can help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the season. If you’re ready to know more about installing a ductless system in your home, call us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.