Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning installed. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then a central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and must be considered prior purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows are easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the right size unit you need to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives a lot of sun or is on the upper floors. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions like an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will run out of a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, a unit should be sized to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. Using a portable AC in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation easier. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when compared with non-certified units.
If you opt to go portable, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos as they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models which means you can cool your room without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to force air across long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while maintaining your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you’re looking to know more about installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We can evaluate your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
