Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive way to cool a condo without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as the windows are easily removed and allow an easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block any space around the sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit 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 with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will need, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money in energy costs over time. To ensure a longer-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself in the long run by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). 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 suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
They are most often in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By using an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system, and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units will also have a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you opt to go portable, it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it could be worth it 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 are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut through floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models which means you can cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, as well to provide all year round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces including garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space comfortable all season. If you are ready to learn more about installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.
