Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning built in. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your building has ductwork then an central AC system is a good idea. However, if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, making it essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since 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 installed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block any space around one or both sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets plenty of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the space it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can get worn out faster than.
These units are utilized typically in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters for optimum performance, and a remote controller to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to 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 runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos, because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models which means you can cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well to provide all year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. 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 can help you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.