Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning installed. A lot of condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
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 room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks, which should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, so they’re not the best choice for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they are easily removed giving you easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily 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 more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll need by multiplying the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. Consider whether the room is in a high-rise building or gets lots 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 we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay off over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than multiple window units.
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, or mini-duct, will be able to run out the window 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 sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units won’t cool well and can get worn out faster than.
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 a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also have washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when compared with non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be put in areas that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This can assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.