Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning installed. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is duct-worked then a central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and cost-effective method of cooling a home without installing ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since windows can be removed easily and allow easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you need to purchase, simply multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills 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 as the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (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 defined by BTU ratings. A unit should be designed according to the room it will be utilized in. Oversized units won’t be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The principal cooling method is a central AC unit. Using a portable AC in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on your central system, saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to reduce moisture. This is another 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, as well as remote controls to make operation easier. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas including garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. This means that it can lower your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space cool all year. If you’re looking to know more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us now! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.
