Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning integrated into them. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building does not have ductwork, a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your condo without the need for 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 with older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs are able to be used to cool a small area which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed permitting easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you’ll need, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. To ensure a longer-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. Although the initial cost is higher, it will be able to pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than a variety of 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 mini-duct or tube will be able to exit an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the room it will be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more rooms, you can reduce the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units will include an option to dehumidify to lessen humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save money and electricity when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. This feature could cost more, but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it passes 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 space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year round comfort.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces like garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to different occupancy patterns.
In addition, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to force air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding allergies and asthma while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our skilled technicians are waiting to help. We will assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.