Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork then a central AC system might be a good option. However, if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, which makes them not a good choice for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they are easily removed permitting easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to 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 larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is located in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, 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 standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units won’t cool well and can be worn out more quickly than.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings 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 portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on the central system and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to reduce the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. This feature could cost more however the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be placed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well which means you can enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space comfortable all season. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.