Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. A lot of condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective method of cooling a home without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from 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 have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose an security risk since windows are easily removed and allow an easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units by yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the right size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets lots of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying a central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions like a space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not cool well and can be worn out more quickly than.
These units are utilized typically in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the primary 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 best portable units will also have the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Select energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be put in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into walls and floors for 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 in comparison to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well which means you can enjoy all year round comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This will help you avoid allergies and asthma, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the all year. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.