Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air cooling units. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area, so they are not suitable for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block any space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models with more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the right size of unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets lots of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC to provide a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will pay for itself over the years by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). They are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce the amount of moisture that is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save money and electricity when in comparison 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 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 it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it could be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be installed where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your space without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have all-year-round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces including garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. As a result, it can lower your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can save on installation costs 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. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies while also keeping your space comfortable all season. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.
