Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Many of the condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows which provide great views, but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork, an central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home does not have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and inexpensive method of cooling a home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, making them not a good choice for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk because windows can be easily removed and provide an 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 by yourself using the window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. To ensure a longer-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much as the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, is able to be run through the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the room it will be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The principal cooling method is a central AC unit. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can reduce the load on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units also come with the option of dehumidifying to cut down on humidity, which is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should come with washable filters for optimum performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of one-hose options. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils then blow it out via the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it could be worth it in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models and allows you to cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well to provide all year round luxury.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve comfort for older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to various types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to force air across long distances. In turn, it can lower your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This will aid in avoiding allergies and asthma and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.