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 which offer great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. However, if it doesn’t then the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior purchasing.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, making them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with 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’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, is able to be run through an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized according to the room it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through central AC unit. Utilizing portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on your central system, saving energy and money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should come with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation more simple. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. This feature could cost more, but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos since they can be put in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities, too which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.