Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems installed. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area, so they are not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money in energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will pay off over the years with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions as the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will run out of a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may get worn out faster than needed.
These units are utilized most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, as well as remote controls to make operation easier. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. This option may cost more however the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos, because they can be placed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your room without disturbing others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well which means you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. 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 is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
In addition that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not need to push air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space cool all season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
