Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork then an central AC system is a good idea. 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 cheap and easy way to cool your condo without having to install 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 with older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages and must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, so they’re not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you’ll need to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives lots of sun or is on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will run out of the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results a unit should be sized to fit in the space it is intended for because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
These units are used typically in apartments or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. Using a portable AC in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The best portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should have washable filters to provide the best performance, and a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go the portable route it is important to select a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with 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 consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating which means you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can 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 require the force of air over long distances. In turn, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance and can be customized to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This will help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We will assess your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
