Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer stunning views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and affordable method of cooling a home 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 older homes without ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that must be considered prior purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk, as the windows can be removed easily and give an easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the excess space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move between rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine what size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room gets lots of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC for a long-term solution. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much like the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
They are mostly in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By using an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system, and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to reduce humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to opt for a portable option, it’s important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. This option may cost more but the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems make a great choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not wish to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives which means you can cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort in older houses or apartments as well as condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your condo. This will help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the season. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.