Air Conditioners For Condos

Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning built in. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunshine and heat.

If your home has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.

1. Window Units

Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for people on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages and must be considered prior purchasing.

Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, so it’s essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.

Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.

To determine the size unit you’ll require, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. Consider whether the room is located in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives plenty of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.

2. Portable Units

Portable air conditioners are independent 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 a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, a unit should be sized to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.

These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the load on the central system and save money and electricity.

The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is a 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 START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.

If you decide to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. This option may cost more, but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.

4. Ductless Systems

Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.

In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it travels through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your room without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy all year round comfort.

The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.

A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.

Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assist you in choosing the most appropriate air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.

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