Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems installed. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your building is equipped with ductwork, then central AC is a good option. If not however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive option to cool a condominium without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. 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. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around the sides of the window. You can install most window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply put the chassis in the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models that have more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous 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, a unit should be sized to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on your central system and save money and energy.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to decrease moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. Dual-hose models allow 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 reduces the sound level of the unit. This feature could cost more, but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are comprised of 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 a fantastic option for condos because they can be placed in places where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too to provide all year round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it does not have to push air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your condominium. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma, while keeping your space comfortable all year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.