Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer stunning views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and affordable option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk, as the windows are easily removed and give easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the 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 your room gets plenty of sun or is on an upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC to provide a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay for itself over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much like the space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are utilized typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Using portable AC units in a room or two could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units will include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also have washable filters to maintain efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Select energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound of the unit. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort could be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut through floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of 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 in comparison to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not have to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This will aid in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the all year. If you are ready to know more about installing a ductless system in your home, call us now! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.