Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of 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 to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks and should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, making them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve on the outside of the frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide between rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the right size of unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets plenty of sun or is on the upper floors. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC for a long-term solution. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions like the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the room it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. The use of portable AC units in a room or two can help reduce the load on your central system, saving electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters to maintain efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Select the 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 is important to select a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. This option may cost more, but the benefits and comfort be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cool by the unit in the indoor by passing through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your room without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have all year round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity costs. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance, and they can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtration system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This will help you avoid asthma and allergy symptoms and maintain 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 most appropriate air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.