Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive method of cooling a home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine what size unit you need, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as 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 are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are utilized mostly in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system and save money and electricity.
The most reliable portable units will also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also include washable filters to maintain performance and remote controls for simple operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos because they can be put in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cooled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models and allows you to cool your room without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to push air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also 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 customized temperature control. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This will assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the all year. If you’re looking to know more about installing an ductless system in your home, call us today! Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist you. We will assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.