Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your apartment without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, making them not the best option for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re a security risk because the windows are easily removed and give an easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the type of window it’s set in, you may need to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around the sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the outside of the frame. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you will require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs needed to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are portable and are measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
These units are utilized most often in apartment buildings or converted homes that don’t have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Using portable ACs in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it could be worth it in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t wish to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless system air is chilled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your home without disturbing others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve comfort in older houses or apartments as well as condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to different 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 also helps reduce your electricity costs. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This can assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma and maintain the comfort of your home throughout the season. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.