Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not come with air conditioning units. Many of the 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 then an central AC system is a good idea. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for people on a budget or older homes without ductwork. They do have some drawbacks and should be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, which makes them not a good choice for larger homes. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since the windows can be removed easily and allow easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will be able to exit a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, a unit should be sized to fit in the space it is intended for because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
They are most often in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Using portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to maintain performance and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. The dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. This feature could cost more however the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra cost.
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 and one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos, because they can be installed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it travels through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms bedrooms, and garages. They can also enhance comfort for older houses, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems because it does not need to force air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity costs. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable all season. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assess your requirements and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.