Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning installed. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your home has ductwork, a central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without having to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for people on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s 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, allowing easy access into your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room. Take into consideration whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The principal cooling method is the central AC unit. The use of portable AC units in a room or two can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease humidity. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the hot condenser coils, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the noise of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and 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 in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into the walls and floors 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 options, which means it’s possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well to provide year-round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity bills. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be adapted to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all season. If you are ready to know more about installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.