Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. Many of the apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, a central AC system is a good idea. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, making them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume plenty 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 issue for security, since they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or wood, to block out the excess space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that can be used 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 a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll need, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, think about whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying a central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay for itself over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the space it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.
These units are used typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on your central system, and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not want to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models, so you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity costs. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.