Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems installed. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, so they’re not the best option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk because windows can be removed easily and provide an easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block any space around one or both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you need, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives a lot of sun or is on the upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). 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 should be sized according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is a central AC unit. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. 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 crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils, then blown out through the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more however the benefits and comfort 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 consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos as they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t want to cut into walls and floors for ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it passes through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives which means you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well to provide all year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many spaces including garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort in older houses, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as 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 reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. With an air filtration system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s comfort throughout the all year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We will assess your needs and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
