Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork and ductwork, central AC system is a good idea. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room, so they are not suitable for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block any space around one or both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the frame. 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 right size of unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives plenty of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions as the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct can be run through a window 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 determined by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on your central system, saving energy and money.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, and remote controls to make operation easier. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go portable, it is important to select a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it could be well worth the investment in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems can also provide heating, so you can have all year round comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it does not have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. They are 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 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 helps you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.