Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork, central AC system might be a good option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive way to cool a condo without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages that must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block any space around one or both sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine what size unit you need you simply need to multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs that 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 floors. A larger unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much like a 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 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. A unit must be sized according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings or homes that do not have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Utilizing portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units will also come with the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and remote controls for simple operation. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over one-hose options. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This significantly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature could cost more however the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos as they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy year-round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for many spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also improve 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 ideal for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space cool throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can assist you in choosing the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.
