Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t then 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 affordable way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because the windows are easily removed and provide an easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve on the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine what size unit you need you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets a lot of sun or is on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work 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 heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. The use of a portable AC in a room or two can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another frequent cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also come with washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save money and electricity when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s important to select a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise produced by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. 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 as they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other options, which means it is possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too to provide all year-round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
In addition that, a ductless system could be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.