Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air cooling units. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which provide great views, but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then central AC is a good option. If not however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have a few drawbacks that should be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because the windows are easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the excess space around the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with larger 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’ll need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room as larger units will not offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The principal cooling method is the central AC unit. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can reduce the load on the central system and save money and energy.
The best portable units also have a dehumidifier setting to reduce humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. This feature could cost more however the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be placed in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your home without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This will assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring your condo’s temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.