Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. Many condos and apartments that have air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunlight and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your apartment without the need for ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those with a tight budget or older homes without ductwork. There are some disadvantages and should be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are easily removed permitting 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 an installation kit for windows 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 frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move between rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you need to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it requires to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to plug 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 are mobile and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the room it will be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
These units are utilized mostly in apartment buildings or homes that do not have ducting systems or in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the burden on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation easier. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and energy when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort can be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units, and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos as they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not want to cut through floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models, so you can cool your home without disturbing other. Some ductless systems also offer heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to force air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space at a comfortable temperature all year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.