Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. Many of the apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages and must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, which makes them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume lots of energy, making it crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose a security risk, as windows are easily removed and give an easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block off any extra space around one or both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move between rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine what size unit you need, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets a lot of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger 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 purchasing central AC system. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the space it is intended to be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may wear out faster than necessary.
These units are used mostly in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Utilizing a portable AC in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money in comparison to non-certified units.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is important to select an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. This feature could cost more, but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos as they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models and allows you to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs 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 customized temperature control. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies while also keeping your space comfortable all year. If you’re ready to learn more about installing a ductless system in your home, call us now! Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We will assess your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.