Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your building 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 can be a cheap and easy way to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk because the windows are easily removed and give easy access to your house.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails. The sleeve then gets fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll require by multiplying the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. Consider whether the room is located in a high-rise building or gets a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is central AC unit. Using a portable AC in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on your central system, saving energy and money.
The best portable units will include an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also include washable filters to maintain efficiency and remote controls for simple operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. This feature could cost more but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t wish to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other options, which means it is possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity costs. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This can assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma and maintain your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you are ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us today! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.