Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if the building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages and must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume a lot of energy, making it crucial to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily 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 on rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives plenty of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. For the best results a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically utilized in apartment buildings as well as homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. Using portable ACs in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain performance and remote controls for simple operation. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity 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 draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature may cost more, but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos because they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut through walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of 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 when compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
Additionally, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to force 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 superior in cooling performance, and they can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too with a highly efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This will aid in avoiding allergies and asthma, while maintaining your condo’s temperature throughout the all year. Contact us today if interested in learning more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.