Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. Many apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your condo without having to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to pick models that have 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.
You may have to put in accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that work like 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 toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
They are typically utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes without ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as remote controls to make the operation simpler. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models which means you can cool your room without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to force air across long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, which saves on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma while ensuring your condo’s temperature throughout the year. If you’re looking to know more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.