Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not come with air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, an central AC system is a good idea. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since windows are easily removed and allow easy access to your house.
You may need to install accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require by multiplying the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is on the upper floors. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will run out of the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on your central system, and save money and electricity.
The best portable units will also have an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not want to cut into 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 coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas including garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. With an air filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home cool throughout the year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist. We can assess your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.