Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems built in. Many condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunlight and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive 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 people on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, so they’re not a good option for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk, as windows are easily removed and give easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails. The sleeve then gets attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives plenty of sun or is on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money in energy costs over time. To ensure a longer-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are mobile and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the room 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 usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes without ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on your central system, and save money and energy.
The best portable units will also have a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their efficiency and remote controls for simple operation. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature may cost more, but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your home without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can cut down on your power bills significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance, and they can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can aid in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.