Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air cooling units. A lot of apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also a lot of sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they are easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around the sides of the window. You can install most window units by yourself using a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeve. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you will need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC to provide 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 utility bills each month 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, or mini-duct, will run out the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed in accordance with the space it will be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is central AC unit. Using a portable AC in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on your central system, saving electricity and also money.
The best portable units also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen moisture, which is another frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, and remote controls to make the operation simpler. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go portable, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic choice for condos, because they can be installed in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into 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 systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well to provide all year round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas including garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort in older houses or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity costs. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condo. This can assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the all year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.