Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air cooling units. Many of the apartments and condos with air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunlight and heat.
If your home is duct-worked then central AC system is a good idea. However, if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and inexpensive method of cooling a home without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, so they’re not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with 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 will require by multiplying the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room. Take into consideration whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay off in the long run by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions like a space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct can be run through the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
These units are used typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature may cost more but the benefits and comfort be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as 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. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your space without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces like garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be customized to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the all year. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.