Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. They do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork then a central AC system might be a good option. However, if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from 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. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, so they’re not the best option for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since the windows are easily removed and give easy access to your house.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block any space around one or both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails. The sleeve then gets attached to the frame using brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you require, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. To ensure a longer-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions like an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results a unit should be sized to fit in the space it is intended for as larger units will not offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can reduce the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it could be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all year round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not have to force air across long distances. It can also reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space cool throughout the season. If you’re ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us today! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We will assess your requirements and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
