Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your building has ductwork, an central AC system could be ideal. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have 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 larger spaces. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk, as the windows can be removed easily and give an easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine what size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money in energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct can be run through the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be designed according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not cool well and can wear out faster than necessary.
They are mostly in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units will also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another common 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 efficiency and remote controls for simple operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you opt to move your portable device, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This significantly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. This feature may cost more, but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of 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 air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other options, which means it is possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not have to force air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This will assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms and maintain the comfort of your home throughout the season. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.
