Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning built in. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork and ductwork, an central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your apartment without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks and must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, making it important to look for models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve on the outside of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need by multiplying the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself 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. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. Using portable ACs in a room or two can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The best portable units will include an option to dehumidify to lessen the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out through the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. This option may cost more but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.
