Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume plenty of energy, making it crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s installed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units by yourself using the window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions like an electric 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 harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can get worn out faster than needed.
These units are utilized mostly in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go portable, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more however the benefits and comfort be worth the extra money.
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, and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t want to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it is possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have all year round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity bills. 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 condo buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condo. This can help you avoid asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the all year. If you’re ready to know more about installing a ductless system into your condominium, contact us today! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.