Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. A lot of condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, an central AC system is a good idea. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting 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 that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, making them not a great option for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they can be easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block any space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay for itself over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions like an electric space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is the central AC unit. Utilizing portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to reduce humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. This option may cost more but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut through floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have all year round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not have to push air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space comfortable all year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist. We can evaluate your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.