Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is duct-worked and ductwork, an central AC system is a good idea. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable method of cooling a home without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for people on a tight 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 able to cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size unit you need to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Consider whether the room is located in a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). They are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can get worn out faster than needed.
These units are used typically in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of portable AC units in a room or two can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to reduce the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when compared with non-certified units.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up 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 a great option for condos because they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your space without disturbing others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round luxury.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
In addition, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems because it does not need to force air across long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With an air filtration system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your apartment. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home comfortable all year. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.