Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not come with air cooling units. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also a lot of heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s important to look for models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units by yourself using a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide between rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll need, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is in a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can 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 in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, is able to be run through a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). They are mobile and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for as larger units will not provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
They are typically utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the principal cooling method is central AC unit. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system and save money and energy.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to reduce humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters to maintain performance and a remote control for easy operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over one-hose options. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature may cost more, but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be put in areas that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t want to cut into walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models which means you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than traditional systems because it does not have to force air over long distances. As a result, it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condo. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home cool throughout the year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.
