Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not come with air cooling units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, an central AC system might be a good option. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, making them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to pick models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk, as windows can be easily removed and provide 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 have to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around one or both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move between rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine what size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is located in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC for long-term solutions. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions as a space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube will run out of 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 defined by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be designed to suit the intended space as larger units will not offer adequate cooling and may get worn out faster than needed.
These units are utilized most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Utilizing portable AC units in a room or two can help reduce the load on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The best portable units will also have the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should come with washable filters for optimum performance, and remote controls to make the operation simpler. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go the portable route it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more however the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra money.
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 that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into walls and floors for ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives, so you can cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance 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 is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your power consumption significantly. They are smaller than forced-air systems which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable all year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.