Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not come with air cooling units. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. If not, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your home 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. However, they do have a few drawbacks, which must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, so they’re not the best option for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block any space around one or both sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units by yourself using the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine what size of unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs that it needs to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room receives a lot of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay off over time, with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions like a space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will run out of a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. Using a portable AC in one or more rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The most reliable portable units include an option to dehumidify to lessen the amount of moisture that is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, as well as a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Select energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to opt for a portable option, it’s important to select a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth it in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos since they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives, so you can cool your home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have all-year-round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for many spaces like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to push air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a great choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space cool throughout the season. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist. We can assist you in choosing the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.