Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems installed. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork, an central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs can only cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume plenty of energy, making it essential to select models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
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 place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, think about whether your room gets lots of sunlight or is on the upper floors. A larger unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are used most often in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Utilizing a portable AC in a room or two could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as remote controls to make the operation simpler. Choose energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos, because they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models, so you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many spaces like garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
In addition that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma and maintain the comfort of your home throughout the season. If you are ready to know more about installing an ductless system in your home, call us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can assess your needs and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.