Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Many condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is duct-worked then central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective way to cool a condo without the need for 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. They do have some drawbacks and should be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, making them not the best option for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, making it crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows are easily removed and allow an easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve on the outside of the frame. For larger models that have more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
These units are utilized typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on your central system, saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen humidity, which is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Select energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go portable, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. This option may cost more however the benefits and comfort be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to force air across long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma and keeps your home cool all year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.