Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork, an central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, which makes them not a good choice for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, making it crucial to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are easily removed giving you easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with the window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models that have more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. Consider whether the room is a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC to provide a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay for itself in the long run by reducing monthly costs and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct can be run through an opening to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results a unit should be sized to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
They are most often in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Using a portable AC in a room or two can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most effective portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature could cost more but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the season. If you’re ready to learn more about installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist you. We will assess your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
