Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning built in. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork then a central AC system might be a good 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 can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units by yourself using a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move between rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually be able to pay for itself over the years by reducing monthly costs and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will run out of a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful 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 should be sized in accordance with 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 most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Utilizing a portable AC in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters to ensure performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go the portable route it is important to select the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. This option may cost more, but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it is possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to various occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity costs. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the all year. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your condominium, contact us now! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We will assess your requirements and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.