Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not come with air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive method of cooling a home without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not a good choice for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs that it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Consider whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay off over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions as an electric space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). 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 designed according to the space it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may get worn out faster than.
They are most often in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of a portable AC in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on central systems, thereby saving electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
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 that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various demands and 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 can also reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be adapted to your personal preferences in temperature. With an air filtration system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your condo. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.