Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not come with air conditioning units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, central AC system might be a good option. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and cost-effective method of cooling a home 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 those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, which makes them not the best choice for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s important to look for models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk because windows can be easily removed and give easy access to your house.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around one or both sides of the window. You can install most window units by yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply put the chassis in the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floors. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is central AC unit. Using portable AC units in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The best portable units will include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards and reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to go for a portable model it is important to select the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. This feature may cost more, but the benefits and comfort be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of 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 home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This will aid in avoiding allergies and asthma, while maintaining your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you’re ready to learn more about installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the most appropriate air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.