Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not come with air cooling units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork and ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as windows can be easily removed and give an easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeve. 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 right size of unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, think about whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay off over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit 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 usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the space it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. By using an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, and a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be installed where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them a great cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant 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 other people. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have all-year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your apartment. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma, while keeping your space cool all year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.