Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area, so they are not suitable for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, making it essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings 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.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself over the years by reducing monthly costs and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
These units are utilized typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system and save money and electricity.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to reduce moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more, but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos as they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not wish to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it is possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to different types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to force air across long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity costs. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This will assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the all year. If you are ready to learn more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us today! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.
