Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. 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, allowing easy access into your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the excess space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the right size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. If you want to have a long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will pay for itself over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are mobile and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the room it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may get worn out faster than.
They are mostly in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable AC units in a room or two can help reduce the load on your central system, saving 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 reason for hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also have washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route it is important to select the dual-hose model over one-hose options. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. This option may cost more however the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be put in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have all-year-round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort in older houses or apartments as well as condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to various types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it doesn’t have to force air across long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the year. If you are ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your requirements and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.