Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your house 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 welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and cost-effective method of cooling a home without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This is a great option for those with a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. There are some disadvantages and must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs can only cool a single space and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are 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 most window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives plenty of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying a central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it will be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can wear out faster than necessary.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through a central AC unit. Using portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving electricity and money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce 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 ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Select energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to move your portable device, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature could cost more but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are made up 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 put in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems can also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort in older houses, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
Additionally, a ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it does not need to push air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power bills significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space cool throughout the year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.