Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Many apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, a central AC system could be ideal. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space and are therefore not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume a lot of energy, making it essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block the extra 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 to 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 attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you will need by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room. Be aware of whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives lots of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much as a space heater. They are designed to be plugged 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 according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for as larger units will not offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
They are mostly in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most effective portable units include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go the portable route, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and the 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, one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it passes through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models and allows you to cool your room without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas including garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. They are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies and keeps your home cool throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can assess your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
